NOVEMBER COUNSELING NEWSLETTER
Connection • Belonging • Gratitude
SEL SPOTLIGHT: WHAT WE LEARNED IN OCTOBER
Bullying Prevention, Upstander Skills & Kindness: Students explored how words and actions affect others, why inclusion matters, and how to be an upstander by offering support or getting help from a trusted adult.
Respect, Responsibility & Shared Rules: We discussed how rules help keep people safe, create fairness, and make learning possible. Following shared expectations shows respect for ourselves, our classmates, and our school community.
What is Gratitude?
Gratitude means noticing and appreciating the people, experiences, and everyday moments that bring meaning to our lives. For children, it's more than saying "thank you"—it's recognizing kindness, appreciating others' efforts, and helping people feel valued. Gratitude can be practiced in small ways every day, without waiting for a special occasion.
PARENTING TIP: MODELING GRATITUDE & NURTURING CONNECTION AT HOME
Building Daily Connection: Children build emotional resilience and a sense of belonging when they feel truly seen, valued, and heard at home. Practice active listening by giving your full attention during daily check-ins without rushing to solve every problem right away. Model appreciation through your own words and actions—gratitude is best caught through daily routines rather than forced!
TRY IT AT HOME: FAMILY GRATITUDE CHALLENGE
1. 🌟 Three Good Things: At dinner or bedtime, have each person share three things they appreciated that day.
2. 💌 A Thank-You Note: Invite your child to draw or write a note to someone who made a difference.
3. 🔍 Notice Kindness: Talk about a kind act you saw today and how it may have made someone feel.
4. 🫙 Gratitude Jar: Add notes about helpful people or kind moments. Read them together weekly!
CONNECTION STARTS WITH CONVERSATION
❓ When did you feel included or welcomed today?
❓ Who helped you today, and how did that make you feel?
❓ Did you notice someone doing something kind?
❓ What is something you appreciate about our family?
TOGETHER, WE HELP EVERY CHILD BELONG
Thank you for partnering with us to nurture kindness, respect, and connection across College Park & IVA! This November, let's make connection a daily practice and gratitude a family tradition!