Plan Ahead, Shine Ahead: Teaching Elementary Students the Power of Being Prepared

girl with glasses thinking

For elementary school counselors, teaching students to be prepared is about more than just having supplies or finishing homework—it’s about helping children build habits of responsibility, planning, and self-management that will support them throughout their academic journey and beyond. Being prepared helps students feel confident, reduces anxiety, and allows them to take ownership of their…

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Beyond Gifts: Building Character in Students During the Holidays

kids and Christmas gifts

The holiday season offers a natural opportunity for school counselors to guide students in developing character traits that go far beyond decorations and presents. By emphasizing generosity, kindness, inclusivity, and forgiveness, counselors can help students focus on meaningful connections, relationships, and personal growth. Creating a Positive, Relationship-Focused Environment Counselors play a key role in shifting…

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Smart Choices Start Early: How to Teach Elementary Students Good Decision-Making Skills

boy with light bulb

Helping children learn how to make good decisions is one of the most powerful life skills elementary school counselors can teach. Decision-making lessons not only build confidence but also lay the foundation for moral character, critical thinking, and personal responsibility. Elementary students make decisions every day—from choosing friends to deciding whether to follow the rules…

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Together We Shine: Teaching Cooperation in Elementary Schools

Two girls playing together with wooden toy blocks

Most parents and teachers would agree that cooperation is a critical skill for life success that requires communication, empathy and respect. Even young children can begin to learn simple ways to cooperate. Learning to use cooperation in the classroom will eventually serve children well as adults. Elementary schools provide countless opportunities for students to work…

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