ELEMENTARY SEL & Wellness

Summer vacation is finally here! For some students, this extended break from school is a welcome opportunity to relax, spend quality time with family, and start preparing for a new school year. For other students, the lack of structure and support they have grown accustomed to at school can make the transition to summer vacation difficult. Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to support their mental health and make this summer the best one yet. Here are some simple ways you can support your child’s mental health during summer vacation.

1. Plan a routine and schedule and stick to it
2. Spend time outdoors
3. Make time for learning
4. Limit screen time
5. Make healthy choices
6. Schedule annual check-ups -dentist, doctor, eye doctor and orthodontist
7. Drink plenty of water
8. Take time out to rest and relax
9. Get active - physical activity and well-being are interconnected
10. Get plenty of sleep
11. Stay connected with others
12. Describe your feelings when communicating with others
13. Get your chores done - don't put them off
14. Be kind to yourself
15. Talk with a professional if needed

Summer is a season of fun, relaxation, and time with family and friends, but the transition from the structure of school to long, laid-back days at home can be challenging for students and impact their mental health. Although these tips to support your child’s mental health during summer vacation are helpful, it’s always a good idea to seek the support of a mental health professional if you have any concerns.

Hello, summer! The hot summer months are here and everyone is more likely to be outside for activities and events. Although it is enjoyable to participate in these outdoor activities, we must also remember to take necessary precautions for a safe, healthy summer! Follow these tips to ensure you are putting safety first.

HEAT SAFETY
Keep your skin and eyes protected. Moderate your exposure to heat and take necessary steps to avoid being outside for long periods of sun and heat. The peak hours for strongest UV rays are 10am to 4pm. While enjoying your time in the heat, be sure there is a cool, air-conditioned place for you to relax and cool down.

Stay hydrated! Drink plenty of liquids throughout the day and consider snacking on water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables. Watch for these signs to determine if you may be experiencing dehydration: extreme thirst, dry mouth, headache, muscle cramping and lightheadedness.

SUN SAFETY
Skin is our largest organ that acts to protect us against heat, sunlight, injury and illness or infection. For these reasons and more, it is critical to protect your skin from UV rays. Apply and re-apply appropriate sunscreen, avoid the burn, wear proper clothing, and relax in the shade when possible! It is best to apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes prior to sun exposure, and it should be reapplied every two hours when sweating or swimming.

UV rays can also be damaging to the eyes. According to the CDC, some of the more common sun-related vision problems include cataracts, macular degeneration and pterygium. To best protect your eyes from the sunlight, wear effective sunglasses with 99 or higher UV block and also consider wearing hats to keep your face and eyes shaded.

Audiobook by Curtis Manley

Ruby Rodriguez, M.Ed. ~ Director of Special Programs

Kathy F. Scott, LMSW ~ Elementary School Climate Specialist

Courtney Kalinowski M.S., LPC ~ Junior High School Climate Specialist

Lacy Timpone, M.Ed., LPC ~ High School School Climate Specialist

Website: www.cueroisd.org
Location: 960 East Broadway Street, Cuero, TX, USA
Phone: 3612751900

Facebook: facebook.com/cueroisd/