As a school counselor, one essential skill you’ll find yourself championing is problem-solving. The ability to navigate challenges– both big and small– is crucial for students' social emotional well-being and development! If you haven't already, please check out Part 1 and Part 2 of my problem-solving skills series.The Importance of Problem-Solving SkillsProblem-solving is a life skill that extends far beyond the classroom and elementary school!By fostering problem-solving abilities in students, ... VIEW POST
Teaching Peaceful Problem-Solving Skills Part 3: 6 Favorite Story Book Reviews
Story Books & Strategies for Teaching Conflict Resolution
As a school counselor, one of the most important aspects of your job is helping students navigate the complexities of relationships and conflict resolution. Teaching children how to effectively manage conflicts is crucial for creating a positive and inclusive school environment!Read on for reviews of my 7 must-have books and explanations of 5 of my favorite strategies for teaching conflict resolution to elementary learners. 7 Must-Have Story Books for Teaching Conflict ResolutionDon’t ... VIEW POST
Teaching Peaceful Problem-Solving Skills Part 2: Using I-Messages
Welcome to part 2 of the peaceful problem-solving series for elementary school counselors! We will dive into all things I-Messages. Go ahead and read Part 1: The Size of the Problem if you haven’t already. Teaching students effective communication skills when faced with problems is one of our most important roles as school counselors. I-Messages are a great place to start, and a critical skill that students can use for a lifetime!Teaching I-MessagesOnce students understand the difference ... VIEW POST
7 Tips for New Elementary School Counselors
You’re a new elementary school counselor and are feeling overwhelmed. There are so many new faces. New and varied responsibilities. You’re needed in so many ways and by so many people. You just don’t know where to start. Friend, I've been there! From a seasoned counselor to you, here are 7 ways you can build a strong foundation as a new elementary school counselor this year! 1) Create (and stick to) a consistent classroom lesson scheduleBefore students start school, establish a consistent ... VIEW POST
Grief & Loss PART 4: Activities to Help Students Cope with Grief & Loss
All of us experience grief and loss at some point in our lives, with many of us navigating our first loss as children. Coping with grief while balancing academic and social responsibilities (and just being a kid!) is challenging! As the school counselor, you have a unique opportunity to provide support and teach students practical skills for managing grief that will last a lifetime. Having engaging and interactive activities on hand to support students is crucial in providing this much-needed ... VIEW POST
Grief & Loss PART 3: Resources to Help Students Cope with Grief & Loss
Grief is a complex emotion that follows a great loss in a person’s life. For elementary students, these losses can include the death of a loved one, a major life change like moving schools, or a severed friendship. As a school counselor, having high-quality resources on hand to support your students through grief is critical!Introduction to Grief in Students and How School Counselors Can HelpGrief is such a big emotion for students to deal with. It is defined as deep sorrow.Grief can manifest ... VIEW POST
