Mill Valley Weekly

With the crisp autumn air and beautiful changing leaves, it certainly feels like October has arrived! As we know, Wisconsin weather at this time of year can be unpredictable and the temperatures can shift dramatically. The playground at Mill Valley always seems a bit colder than the forecasted weather due to the wind. Please keep that in mind when you are dressing your student for school. Please always send an extra layer with your student and it might not be a bad idea to put a pair of gloves and stocking hat in your student's backpack.

In Partnership,

Allyce Harris

Mill Valley Principal

• water bottles
• lunch boxes
• clothing items
• backpacks/notebooks

Items such as these are found in various areas around the school and ultimately end up in the lost and found. If they are labeled, we can return them directly to the owner.

• If your student brings a cold lunch from home, please be sure to include utensils for things such as yogurt, fruit cup, pudding
• Taher provides a spork for students who are taking HOT LUNCH only

Since 2020, one of the most common topics of conversation among parents and teachers has been childhood anxiety. Anxiety is one of the earliest-developing mental health issues, with a median age of onset at just 11 years old.

What’s Contributing to Childhood Anxiety?

There are many factors that play a role in why more children are struggling with anxiety today:

• COVID-19 Disruptions – The pandemic unsettled routines, created social isolation, and brought stress to many families.
  

• Social Media & Technology – Children are constantly comparing themselves to others, often against unrealistic portrayals of life online.
  

• Academic Pressure – Increased expectations from schools and parents can add significant stress.
  

• Lifestyle Habits – Diet, sleep, and physical activity all have a powerful effect on both physical and emotional well-being.

Over the next few articles, I’ll share ways to recognize signs of anxiety in children and offer strategies that have helped both my own children and many families I’ve worked with over the years.

Importance of Routines and Schedules

Anxiety often centers around worrying about the future—children with anxiety frequently wonder:

“What’s going to happen next?”
“How will I feel when that happens?”

One of the best ways to calm these worries is by helping children predict what’s coming next through clear and consistent routines.

Create a Predictable Routine

• Establish a daily schedule your child can see—just like the visual schedules used in classrooms.
  

• Preview the day each morning to set realistic expectations.
  

• Consider posting a Morning Routine and Afternoon Routine chart at home. (Examples: Morning Routine, Afternoon Routine)

Remember: “If It’s Predictable, It’s Preventable.” Children with anxiety thrive when their days feel predictable. A consistent schedule gives them a sense of control and comfort.

Of course, life brings unexpected changes. When those arise:

• Leave a blank space on the schedule for “surprises” or “changes.”
  

• Fill it in when plans are confirmed.
  

• This helps your child build flexibility within a framework of predictability.
  

Over time, children learn that even when things change, they can handle it. Predictability builds confidence, and confidence helps reduce anxiety. By helping your child see what’s coming next, you’re not only calming their worries—you’re teaching them skills that last a lifetime.

On October 21st and 22nd, the Tess Corners Fire Department came to Mill Valley and was able to speak to each class about fire safety.

Please review the information linked here to learn more about the early literacy assessments proctored with students in 4K through 3rd grades.

CLICK HERE to start your order OR scan the QR code

Passcode:

1016080687433580

• Please join us for our PTO meeting on Tuesday, November 11th at 5:30 pm. Our guest speakers will be the 4th Grade teachers. When the PTO Meeting wraps up, we will meet to start the 4th Grade Celebration Committee.

It is that time of year again! Join the Muskego Elementary Ski Club and enjoy discounted winter fun with family and friends! We have seven dates for discounts this winter season and four of those are on no school days. Sign up today by filling out the ski club form, linked HERE for your elementary student! Club Cards can be picked up in your school's office.

The Christmas Clearing Council of Waukesha County promotes and coordinates giving to families in need during the Christmas season. If you are a family in need and interested in applying for assistance, please visit https://www.christmasclearingcouncil.org/

Applications are due November 15.

To view current support staff job vacancies, click HERE

Email: allyce.harris@muskegonorway.org
Website: muskegonorway.org
Location: W191 S6445 Hillendale Dr, Muskego Wi, 53150
Phone: 262-971-1830
Facebook: facebook.com/millvalleyelementary