Counseling Corner

Click on the picture to watch Mindfulness video.

The elementary school counselors have created a virtual student check-in form for their respective schools. We have several responses already but are hoping to connect with each student.

We ask each Second, Third, Fourth & Fifth-grader to complete the form if they have not done so already. Kindergarten and First graders are encouraged to complete the check-in form with a parent or caregiver support.

Each elementary school counselor is eager to touch base with the students in their schools. We look forward to communicating with our students, helping to lessen home/school-related stressors, and reinforcing student resiliency, coping skills, and positive behaviors.

We invite all parents to encourage their children to complete the check-in form.

Please click on your elementary school logo button below to access the check-in form.

A mindset shift is SO POWERFUL! The way that we think affects the way that we feel. Negative thinking will create anxious and sad feelings. This is always true but even more important during a stressful time. Shifting negative thoughts to more positive thoughts is not easy but it will help alleviate negative feelings and create a more positive outlook. Check out some easy mindset shifts to use during this pandemic.

Below are two quick reminders for students to T.H.I.N.K and be S.M.A.R.T.

Due to the global pandemic we are using the internet and online services now more than ever before. Being online is providing a lifeline for everyone in society from the young to the old, learners and workers, and those seeking an escape from boredom. Our children who have been socially isolated for over a month now may be particularly at risk as they are looking for social outlets and may be more likely to talk to strangers. Further, parents under extreme pressure trying to work from home and be their children's teacher may have less time to devote to monitoring what their children are doing online. It is imperative that we all take a moment and review the basics to keep ourselves and our children safe online.

Please click HERE or on the picture above for an internet safety refresher article.

By Elizabeth L. Jeglic Ph.D., Keeping Your Child Safe Online During the Pandemic

Psychology Today, April 9, 2020

Why Mindfulness?

Mindfulness has been linked to two core social and emotional skills: Self-Management and Self-Awareness.

• Self-Management skills for elementary students include the ability to not only identify but to successfully regulate one's emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in different situations. Examples include: managing stress, controlling impulses, motivating oneself, ability to set and work toward goals (personal & academic) and persevering in addressing challenges.
• Self-Awareness skills for elementary students involve the ability to accurately recognize one’s own emotions, thoughts, and values and how they influence behavior. And the ability to accurately assess one’s strengths and limitations, with a well-grounded sense of confidence, optimism, and a “growth mindset.”

Skills in these areas teach students not only how to recognize their thoughts, emotions, and actions, but also how to react to them in positive ways. Practicing Mindfulness can significantly relieve student stress and can improve reactions to stress. Additionally, studies have shown that mindful techniques can strengthen the brain’s ability to learn positive coping strategies, and lower the power and frequency of negative emotions.

Click on the photo below to discover Pinwheel Breathing.