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 teaching ... VIEW POST
Test-Taking Tips & Tools for Elementary Learners
Valentine’s Day Counseling & SEL Ideas
Love is in the air! One of my favorite holidays, Valentine's Day, is just around the corner. While I could easily spend all day googly-eyed over my adorable sons and handsome husband, I also get warm and fuzzy feelings from celebrating the holiday with my students. Y'all know any reason to theme up my counseling sessions and classroom lessons is a win for me! Luckily, my kiddos love it as much as I do, and we have so much fun not only celebrating the day, but learning the true meaning behind ... VIEW POST
Helping Children Cope with Divorce & Separation
Have you ever had a student look at you through teary eyes and ask, "What does divorce even mean? Will I still see my parents? Is this all my fault?" With divorce rates skyrocketing during the pandemic, more children than ever before are asking these painful questions, and struggling to navigate stressful family changes.Divorce can be shattering for everyone involved, but seems to hit elementary-aged children especially hard. 5 to 11-year-olds are old enough to remember their family life before ... VIEW POST
Helping Children Cope with Anger
Into your office stomps an obviously upset fourth grader: his fists are clenched, his face is as red as his shirt, and his body is trembling. What do you say? Here are some ideas for you.Behavior is communication, and it’s not uncommon for kids who have trouble handling emotions to lose control. Just like adults, kids experience big emotions as they navigate through life, one of the strongest of which is anger. Anger is one of our most basic emotions and although it is often seen as a negative ... VIEW POST
