We made it to the shortest month of the whole year and also the month of February break! Although our February break may look a little different than last year, we can still make the best of it by getting a little creative with safe socially distanced activities. I've provided some ideas below for inspiration. Be sure to let me know which one is your favorite!

Snow Globes are a great stress reliever for many reasons: the actual act of crafting the snow globe, shaking the snow globe to release anger or stress, and the calming effects of watching the "snow" fall.

Check out the simples steps HERE

1. Why was Grace told she could not be Peter Pan? How did that make her feel? How could you tell?

2. Did Grace demonstrate a growth or fixed mindset throughout the book? Did her mindset change throughout the book? How do you know?

3. What did Grace's Mother and Grandmother think of her decision? How did they support her? How would the story have been different if Grace's family did not support her?

Valentine's Day is this month! Why not make a beautiful heart shaped suncatcher for your window? I hope you enjoy this craft.

Suncatcher Instructions

After watching this video with your child, process what the word consent means. What does your child feel comfortable with when it comes to physical contact? Would they rather give a high five, a hug, or nothing at all? ALL of these options are OK.

February can still be a cold and snowy month. What better way to warm up after playing in the cold than a large steamy cup of cocoa? This fun craft is simple and allows lots of room for kids to get creative!

Popsicle Stick Hot Cocoa

1. Help your child draw a wheel divided into segment. On each segment, your child will write important categories in their life: Family, Friends, School, Tennis, etc.
2. Focus on one category at a time. Choose the first category and write out each goal they want to accomplish.
3. Next, talk to your child about the steps they will take to reach these goals and what challenges or obstacles they may encounter along the way. If they do encounter these obstacles, what will they do to overcome them?
4. Let your child color and decorate the wheel however they would like. Feel free to hang this up in a place it will be seen!

Lynn Lyons is an international speaker and psychotherapist based in Concord, New Hampshire who helps children and families manage anxiety disorders. In this podcast, Lynn discusses what personal growth and emotional management looks like and how we know what we're doing is working.

https://luxerecess.com/flusterclux/emotional-management/

Do you have lots of snow and no idea what to do with it? Check out this wicked cool winter science experiment!

Snow Volcano Instructions

There is always a reason to celebrate and find something positive. I think that is especially important during the times of COVID. Check out these obscure holidays in February!

Feb. 1st: No Politics Day

Feb. 2nd: Ground Hog Day

Feb. 3rd: Feed the Birds Day

Feb. 4th: Thank a Mailman Day

Feb 5th: Bubble Gum Day

Feb. 6th: Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day

Feb. 7th: Send a Card to a Friend Day

Feb. 8th: Kite Flying Day

Feb. 9th: National Pizza Day

Feb. 10th: Umbrella Day

Feb. 11th: White T-Shirt Day

Feb. 12th: Plum Pudding Day

Feb. 14th: Ferris Wheel Day

Feb. 15th: National Gumdrop Day

Feb. 17th: Random Acts of Kindness Day

Feb. 18th: National Battery Day

Feb. 19th: National Chocolate Mint Day

Feb. 20th: Cherry Pie Day

Feb. 21st: Card Reading Day

Feb. 22nd: Walk the Dog Day

Feb. 23rd: Tennis Day

Feb. 24th: National Tortilla Chip Day

Feb. 26th: National Pistachio Day

Feb. 27th: Polar Bear Day

Feb. 28th: National Chili Day

Ms.Hunt is on Twitter! Follow my page for SEL updates, articles, and other helpful tips throughout the school year. @MsHuntSSS

Looking for more resources? Check out the Adjustment Counselor website for SEL information, resources, and more!

Adjustment Counselor Website

The Interface Referral Service is a mental health and wellness referral help line. Callers from Lynnfield are matched with licensed mental health providers from their database within an approximate two week period of time and are matched by location, insurance and specialty needs of the caller.

The number to reach is 888-244-6843 and they can be reached Monday-Friday from 9-5.

https://interface.williamjames.edu/

We are including this comprehensive list as it is a great resource for mental health resources in our area.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-xLJDUNz7g-oD6e-3Rmclvw75nmSWzQJ/view

Missed last months newsletter? Check it out here:

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Heather Hunt, MSW, LCSW

School Adjustment Counselor

Summer Street School

Email: hunth@lynnfield.k12.ma.us

Phone: (781) 334-5830 x3821

Twitter: @MsHuntSSS