Have you ever wondered why children seem so immersed in play, as if it’s the most important thing in the world? What if I told you that for children, play is their most important work? Through play, children develop critical skills that shape their social and emotional development, and it’s much more than just fun […]
It May Look Like Fun, But Play is Actually a Child’s “Work” Read More »
Have you ever heard a child say, “He made me do it!” after getting in trouble? This common phrase highlights a challenge young students face: taking responsibility for their words and actions. Shifting the blame to others might seem like an easy way out, but it prevents them from learning valuable life skills. In my
Teaching Students How to Take Responsibility for their Actions Read More »
Have you ever thought about the start of a new school year as similar to the process of adjusting to a change in the family? Just as families experience shifts in dynamics when changes occur, students and their families often undergo a period of adjustment once the novelty of the school year wears off. This
Adjusting to a New (Classroom) Family: Back-to-School Emotions Read More »
Friendship can be kinda tricky. When kids are excited about having new friends, sometimes without meaning to, they end up pushing their friends away by doing things that ANNOY them. Has anyone ever accused you of being annoying? Then you might need to figure out how and when to stop so that you can keep
Growing Friendships: 3 Common Friendship Mistakes and How to Avoid Them Read More »
As the school year kicks off, it’s a season of new beginnings. Just like the changing leaves and the promise of fresh growth, this is the time when we all have the chance to sow the seeds of something truly beautiful—friendship. Whether you’re a student moving to he next grade, a teacher creating a nurturing
Growing Friendships: An Innovative Social Skills Lesson Read More »
As an elementary school counselor, I am always on the lookout for innovative and effective ways to teach social-emotional skills to the students I work with. Amidst the myriad of resources available, I have found that classic table and floor games offer a delightful and engaging approach to developing essential life skills. One classic game
Pick Up Sticks: An Essential Skill Builder! Read More »
Are you an elementary school counselor searching for innovative methods to make social emotional learning (SEL) lessons more engaging and enjoyable for your students? Do you often find it challenging to encourage active participation in SEL activities? If you’re seeking a fun and interactive way to foster essential social emotional skills such as teamwork, communication,
How to Twist Your Approach to Social Emotional Learning Read More »
Have you ever seen a sea dragon? When encountering the awe-inspiring beauty and gracefulness of a sea dragon gliding through the water, it’s hard not to be captivated. These majestic creatures possess a remarkable ability to blend into their surroundings, ensuring their safety and survival in the vast ocean. As I stood in wonder, observing
Standing Out & Blending In – Lessons from a Sea Dragon Read More »
