HAS Parent Outreach Program
November 2024
November: Raising Good Humans - Keeping Our Cool
Welcome to the Family Wellness Spotlight, a recurring series where we’ll explore key insights from various sources on parenting best practices! Currently, we are reading the book Raising Good Humans by Hunter Clarke-Fields. Over the coming months, we’ll dive into practical strategies from the book to help cultivate mindful parenting, strengthen family relationships, and raise kind, confident children. Join us as we unpack these lessons and apply them to everyday life!
In this edition of our spotlight, we explore the importance of keeping your cool. “We are at our worst in the parenting department when we’re in reactive mode,” writes Hunter Clarke-Fields, and this first chapter of Raising Good Humans focuses on how mindfulness can help us step back from stressful moments and parent with more presence and patience. When we’re in a challenging moment, our body’s stress response can take over, blocking access to the upper brain, where we make thoughtful, rational decisions. Clarke-Fields explains that this response helped our ancestors survive dangerous situations, but today it can “undermine your connection to your child—the glue that makes parenting easier” (p. 14). Mindfulness, or the practice of paying attention in the present moment without judgment, is a tool we can use to respond calmly and intentionally.
This chapter emphasizes that when we practice mindfulness, we strengthen the part of our brain responsible for self-awareness, empathy, and thoughtful decision-making—key skills for parenting. Studies show that consistent mindfulness practice can even change our brain structure over time, making it easier to stay calm and present. Clarke-Fields highlights the power of this simple practice: “As we start to practice mindfulness—bringing our attention into the present moment with kindness and curiosity—we can bring that awareness, kindness, and curiosity to our children” (p. 19).
Incorporating mindfulness doesn’t require big changes, just small steps each day to help manage stress and create more intentional, meaningful interactions with our children. As we begin this journey, let’s remember Clarke-Fields’s gentle reminder: it’s about “good-enough” parenting, not perfection. Practicing mindfulness can help us focus on what truly matters—nurturing a kind, confident child by modeling calm, respectful behavior ourselves.
Next month we will dive into another aspect of breaking the cycle of reactivity, understanding yourself not only as a parent, but as a human being, through disarming your triggers.
You can learn more about Raising Good Humans and Hunter Clarke-Fields in the links below.
Care Solace
In an effort to ease the burden of finding the mental health and substance use services you need, Holly Area Schools has formed a new partnership with Care Solace, your central hub of care.
With a network of over 350,000 providers and services, Care Solace will help you find the right help at the right time, 24/7/365, at no cost to you. They will connect you with providers accepting all medical insurances, including Medicaid, Medicare, and sliding scale options for those without insurance.
You can access Care Solace services in three ways:
- Call 888-515-0595 to connect with a Care Companion who will guide you through the process
- Search anonymously to get matched with an extensive list of care providers here
- Contact your school counselor or social worker and they will submit a referral on your behalf
Please reach out to Cheryl Price with any questions: 248-328-3230, cheryl.price@hask12.org
November: Prioritizing Wellness Together
As we enter November and the days grow shorter and colder, it’s a great time to focus on mental wellness. Many people experience a dip in mood due to seasonal changes, and some even experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)—a type of depression that often occurs during the winter months. Symptoms such as low energy, mood changes, and difficulty concentrating can make this time challenging. This November, let’s raise awareness around SAD and mental health, providing support and resources to help manage these challenges.
Whether you’re personally impacted by mental health issues or want to support others, November serves as a reminder to prioritize emotional well-being. It’s a time for self-reflection, education, and showing compassion to loved ones who may be struggling. Let’s come together in support of mental health, recognizing its importance for everyone.
Embracing Self-Care for Mental Wellness
Caring for one’s mental health is essential for overall wellness, and November is the perfect opportunity to practice self-care. This month, we’re highlighting activities that can boost mental wellness, such as mindfulness exercises, relaxation techniques, physical activity, and healthy coping mechanisms. Small steps make a big difference, and by fostering self-care habits, we support ourselves and our communities in building a culture of wellness.
Support Through the Holly Parent Outreach Program
For families seeking additional support or resources, the Holly Parent Outreach Team is here to help. We can provide referrals and access to mental health resources tailored to your needs. Reach out to connect with professionals who are ready to support you and your loved ones on the journey to better mental health.
Every Day Counts, Every Broncho Matters!
Attending school every day is essential for academic success and well-being. Students who attend regularly are more likely to stay on track in their classes, build strong relationships, and develop important life skills. Research shows that students who miss just two days per month (about 18 days per year) are significantly more at risk of falling behind and facing challenges from kindergarten through high school graduation.
In fact, chronic absenteeism can lead to a decrease in literacy skills in the early years and lower graduation rates in high school.
We want to partner with you to support positive attendance for every student! If you need assistance with transportation, morning routines, or other concerns, please reach out to your child’s school counselor or social worker—they’re here to help.
Remember, Every Day Counts, Every Broncho Matters!
Check out the information from Attendance Works below!
