Using Journals in Elementary School Counseling: Simple Strategies for Big Emotional Learning
One of the greatest strengths of journaling is its versatility. It works across all counseling settings. Using Journals in Individual Counseling Sessions Individual counseling allows journals to become highly personalized and relationship-based. Effective Uses in Individual Sessions Emotional check-ins Reflection after difficult situations Goal tracking Coping strategy practice Problem-solving exercises Processing friendship issues, grief, anxiety,…
Unlocking Resilience: How Curiosity Builds Stronger, Braver Elementary Students
For elementary school counselors, teaching resilience isn’t just about bouncing back from setbacks. It’s about equipping students with the skills that make problem-solving possible. One of the most overlooked components of resilience is curiosity. What Is Curiosity? Curiosity is a mindset of wanting to know, explore, and understand. It’s the drive to ask questions, investigate…
Caring for the Caregiver: Self-Care Strategies for Counselors During Stressful Times
As an elementary school counselor, you are a beacon of stability for your students, especially during times of crisis. Whether the crisis is a natural disaster, a death in the community, or the trauma of a global event, counselors are often the first responders to the emotional needs of students. However, in the rush to…
School Counselor Conference Success: Tips for Learning, Networking, and Growth
Every year, I attend several conferences as a speaker, vendor or participant, so I’ve seen conferences from many different perspectives. No matter what role I am playing, I always anticipate learning something new and making new connections as well. Each conference that I attend, I try to improve my ability to make the most of…
Journaling for Kids: Prompts that Build Emotional Growth and Confidence
Journaling for kids is one of the most effective and flexible tools elementary school counselors can use to support emotional development, self-awareness, and problem-solving skills. Whether used during individual counseling sessions, small group counseling, or classroom guidance lessons, student journals create a safe and structured space for children to explore their thoughts and feelings. For…
The Burnout Fix for School Counselors: How to Set Healthy Boundaries Without Guilt
You don’t need to do everything to be an effective school counselor. In fact, doing less—but doing it well—is what makes the biggest difference. Strong boundaries don’t limit your impact—they sharpen it. Many of us though are so dialed in to the helper mindset that we hate to say no. We feel that we are…
School Counseling and Burnout: Why Boundaries Matter More Than Ever
School Counseling and Burnout: Why Boundaries Matter More Than Ever Elementary school counselors are often the emotional backbone of a school. You support students, collaborate with teachers, communicate with families, and manage administrative demands—all while trying to deliver a comprehensive school counseling program. But here’s the reality: without clear boundaries, even the most passionate counselor…
Prepared to Lead: Teaching Elementary Students the Power of Being Ready
What Does It Mean to Be Prepared? Being prepared means thinking ahead, organizing what you need, and being ready to take action when the moment comes. For elementary students, this can look like: Bringing materials to class Completing assignments on time Mentally preparing for transitions or challenges Anticipating what comes next Preparation is more than…
Journaling : A Powerful School Counseling Tool for Emotional Growth and Self-Reflection
Elementary school counselors are constantly looking for meaningful, low-pressure ways to help students process emotions, build self-awareness, and develop healthy coping skills. One of the most effective and flexible tools available is journaling. Journaling gives children a safe, private, and creative outlet to explore thoughts and feelings they may not yet know how to express…
What People Say About The Wyatt Books
kind words from educators, parents, and kids!
"Going to kindergarten is a milestone for everyone and the beginning of the year is usually filled with excitement and angst. Wyatt the Wonder Dog addresses the typical concerns that most children have in a sweet and relatable way. Kindergarten really is fun!"
"Wyatt the Wonder Dog Learns about Teamwork is another great example of helping kids improve their social skills. It teaches kids the power of working together and how much better we are when we work as a community"
"[Wyatt the Wonder Dog Learns about Mindset] This book is funny! It's dogs doing things that only people do! I learned to try new things."
Wyatt the Wonder Dog Learns about Giving is a delightful book that teaches kids (and reminds adults, as well) that generosity is possible no matter how old, young, rich or poor we are. This is a powerful message and an engaging story that every child will love.
~Jen McDonough, author of Living Beyond Rich
Wyatt the Wonder Dog Learns about Friendship teaches not only friendship and making connections, but also how to become successful at problem solving. Great for school counselors, teachers and families. Bravo!
Sharissa Shatten~ School Counselor
Feeling left out? Need help getting along with friends? Wyatt the Wonder Dog Learns about Cooperation weaves important life skills into engaging story telling. Join Wyatt as he learns how to be the superhero in his group of friends by using cooperation and compromise.
~MaryFrances Gonzalez MACCCSLP
Have you ever had a friend that did some things that you disagreed with? Wyatt does and he doesn't know what to do about it. Join Wyatt as he learns that being honest with his friend is the best and only way to solve the problem. A great story!
~Lynn Hughes M.Ed. school counselor
If you've ever lost your lunch money or misplaced your favorite toy, you can relate to Wyatt the Wonder Dog. This adorable story offers simple, helpful ideas that kids and parents can use to make life less stressful and more fun!
~Erin K. Casey, author
