Mrs. K's Counseling Corner
May 2026
K-3 students are learning about the Toolbox Project and how the 12 tools in our toolbox can help us problem solve, regulate emotions and get along with others on a daily basis. Students will be coloring and decorating their toolboxes, and they will cut each individual tool out as they are introduced.
To wrap up the school year, this month students will be learning about the character trait of courage. Courage is having the determination to do the right thing even when others don't and the strength to follow your conscience rather than the crowd; attempting difficult things that are worthwhile. Students will understand how they can practice courage inside and outside of school. Students will learn how the 12 Tools assists them in practicing courage. Students will identify more than one Toolbox tool that they can use to practice courage.
Howard B. Wigglebottom Learns About Courage
There are so many great books in the Howard B. Wigglebottom series. I have used this book primarily with 1st graders. After listening, I would have them draw a picture of a time they showed courage and write a sentence to go with it. I love that the HBW books have songs that go along with the books. The Fear and Courage Song “It’s Okay to Be Afraid” is a catchy one and the kids enjoy listening to it.
I Am Courage: A Book of Resilience by Susan Verde
I Am Courage is one book from a series of I Am books by this author. Like the other books in the series, this book is full of wonderful affirmations. This book is written for ages 4-8. I like using books in this series with middle elementary-aged children.
Courage by Bernard Waber
Courage is an oldie but a goodie. I’ve used Bernard Waber’s books throughout my years as a teacher and school counselor. I originally fell in love with Lyle Lyle Crocodile many years ago. Courage was one of the first books I purchased as a new school counselor in 2004. It simply gives example after example of what courage is from riding a bicycle without training wheels to eating a new food you’ve never tried before.
Last month we learned about our final tool, the "Courage Tool." Courage is having inner strength and bravery to do the "right" thing even when it is difficult. When we feel troubled by our own or others' behaviors, it takes courage to use our Tools when others are not using theirs. Helping children to have courage lets them explore the unfamiliar. Courage, from Latin cor ("heart"), means to act with "heart." Acting with courage is following one's heart.
This month we will reflect on how the "Courage Tool" applies to this month's character trait and complete our Toolboxes for the year!
Last day of school for students will be May 21, 2026.
It's been a privilege to work with your child this year
But now the end is drawing near
Although it's sad to say goodbye
They're ready to spread their wings and fly
We've watched them work and learn and grow
They're someone who we are happy to know
We'll remember the time that we spent together
And we'll keep them in our hearts forever!
We have truly enjoyed working with all of the students and families this school year, please have a wonderful and relaxing summer!
