Growing Strong: Four Characteristics of Resilient Children
It is a rare individual who does not encounter disappointments and difficulties during their childhood years. As counselors, we have the privilege of nurturing tomorrow’s leaders and helping them develop courage and resilience in order to handle these difficulties. Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity, overcome obstacles, and adapt positively to life’s…
Read More4 Ways to Develop Resilient Kids
We all know people who have experienced tremendous challenges in their lives. Perhaps you are one of them. Sometimes it is a physical challenge, sometimes it is an environmental challenge and other times it is a menta or emotionall challenge. After talking with someone about their personal challenge, I always ask, “What is it that…
Read MoreClassroom Stress Relief Strategies for Kids
Students today are more stressed than any time in history. Causes of stress may include social pressures, family conflict, food/housing insecurity, struggles with identity or self-esteem, academic pressures, and life transitions. Any stressor can significantly impact a child’s mental health. Equipping students with coping mechanisms within the classroom setting is critical for their overall well-being.…
Read MoreHow To Do Mental Health Check-ins with Students
Concern for the mental health of elementary age students has been growing due to changes in our culture and the overall stress level in our society. Post-COVID, there has been a significant uptick in reported mental health concerns. The disruptions caused by the pandemic, including remote learning, social isolation, and uncertainty, have impacted the emotional…
Read MoreCreating Calm: Relaxation Strategies
It really wasn’t that many years ago when people would ask me, “What problems could elementary age children possibly have that necessitates a full time counselor in an elementary school?” Fast forward to the environment of today, and we are all too familiar with the many mental health issues that children face. As elementary school…
Read MoreThe Heart of Friendship: Nurturing Empathy in Young Hearts
In an elementary school, friendships play a pivotal role in shaping a child’s social and emotional development. As elementary school counselors, our mission is not only to address academic concerns but also to nurture the emotional intelligence of tomorrow’s leaders. One crucial aspect of this emotional intelligence is empathy—the ability to understand and share the…
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