goal setting
Planting Seeds of Hope: Helping Students Believe in Their Future
Elementary school counselors play a powerful role in shaping not only the academic success of children but also their emotional well-being. One of the most valuable gifts we can give students is hope—the belief that even in difficult circumstances, they can take steps toward a brighter future. What is Hope? Hope is not just a…
Read MoreFail Forward: Helping Kids Turn Setbacks into Stepping Stones
In a world of high expectations and pressure to perform, even young students can feel overwhelmed by the ideas of success and failure. As school counselors, we play a crucial role in guiding them to understand that failure isn’t the end of the story—it’s often the beginning. When framed correctly, setbacks can become powerful springboards…
Read MoreStart Strong: 5 Ways Counselors Plan for a Fantastic School Year
As an elementary school counselor, the start of the school year is your chance to set the tone—not just for your students, but for yourself. Whether you’re new to the role or a seasoned professional, being intentional in how you begin can set you up for success. Below are five practical strategies to position yourself…
Read MoreA Colorful Start: Fun Activities to Help Students Visualize Their Year Ahead
As a new year begins, it’s the perfect time to inspire students with positivity, goal-setting, and the excitement of what lies ahead. It is an incredible opportunity to guide students in crafting a vision for their future. Here are three delightful activities designed for upper elementary age students to help them visualize their year ahead.…
Read MorePen to Paper: Helping Elementary Students Achieve Their Dreams Through Goal-Setting Journals
Several years ago while on a flight home, I used the time to write in my journal and catch up on my goals. A man seated nearby, commented on how amazed he was to see me actually writing in a notebook in this digital age. I got the impression that he was pretty astonished that…
Read MoreHelping Kids Set Goals that Motivate
Helping kids learn to set goals can be a skill that serves them well in every area of life. However, it can also be a frustrating and discouraging experience for them! Even adults have great difficulty setting and following through on goals. How can you help kids not only set goals but develop the patience…
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