Our “mindset,” or the way we think about ourselves, MATTERS! It controls how we feel, how we act, and the choices we make. Dr. Carol Dweck’s ground-breaking research on growth mindset has taken the education and mental health fields by storm (deservingly so)! So, What is Growth Mindset? Growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication, effort, and continuous learning. It contrasts with a fixed mindset, which assumes that skills and traits ... VIEW POST
Story Books that Teach Growth Mindset
Must-Have Books to Help Kids Cope with Anger
In these post-pandemic times, anger, anxiety, and stress are on the rise in school-age children (and adults!). More and more students are coming to their school counselor looking for tools and strategies to manage BIG feelings. As school counselors, our role is not to eliminate anger in our students, but to guide them in harnessing its power in a positive and constructive way. If you know me, you know that storybooks are my go-to therapeutic tool. They help children feel “not-so alone” in ... VIEW POST
Must-Have Storybooks to Help Kids Cope with Anxiety
Anxiety is on the rise in school-age children, and more and more students are coming to their school counselor for anxiety support. To help kids manage these big feelings, storybooks are my go-to therapeutic tool. They help children feel "not-so alone" in their experiences, teach practical skills, and relate to them on their level like nothing else can. Read on to learn more about anxiety in children, why books are an effective resource, and 4 MUST-HAVE books to add to your school counselor ... VIEW POST
Everything You Need to Know About Trauma in Children, and How to Help
Childhood trauma is more prevalent than most expect. According to the National Child Traumatic Stress Initiative, greater than 65% of children report at least one traumatic event by the time they turn 16 years old. Trauma can have a lasting impact on the brain, as well as the social, emotional, and academic development and well-being of the child. As educators, it’s essential that we know how to identify trauma in our students and support them through it. What is Trauma? Traumatic ... VIEW POST
Helping Kids Cope with Anxiety
Did you know that approximately 9.2% of children have anxiety? This is a 27% increase from years before 2016 (Lebrun-Harris, 2022). What does this mean for you as a school counselor or classroom teacher? In a school of 500 students, there will be around 50 students experiencing anxiety. This is NOT a number that educators can overlook. Helping kids cope with anxiety must be a top priority! What Does Anxiety Look Like in Elementary-Aged Children? Children experience worries, fears, ... VIEW POST
Test-Taking Tips & Tools for Elementary Learners
It's almost that time of year. The one that students, teachers, and administrators dread. The couple of weeks when nothing else seems to matter, and everything gets put on hold. Educators, you know what I'm talking about. TESTING SEASON! Standardized tests can make even the most calm, cool, and collected students and teachers feel on edge, nervous, and anxious. So, in the weeks leading up to the big test, I prioritize checking in with students, exploring their feelings and worries, and ... VIEW POST
