Counselor's Corner

From the Desk of Erin Waterman WES School Counselor

Thanksgiving break is a beautiful time to focus on family and create lasting memories. Here are some ideas to make the most of it:

Cook Together: Plan a special meal with everyone involved. Even little kids can help with simpler tasks, and it’s a great way to bond and make everyone feel involved in the holiday meal.
Family Game Night: Bring out board games, card games, or even a puzzle for a cozy evening. Everyone can get involved, and it’s a great way to have fun without screens.
Outdoor Adventure: If the weather permits, take a family hike, go on a nature walk, or visit a local park. Many places have stunning fall scenery, and it can be a refreshing way to bond.
Share Gratitude: Each family member can share what they're thankful for, perhaps around the dinner table or in a gratitude circle. You could even make a "Thankful Tree" with everyone writing down what they’re grateful for on paper leaves to hang up as a display.
Watch a Movie Marathon: Pick a series of family-favorite movies, make some popcorn, and have a cozy movie night (or day!). It's relaxing and a great way to wind down together.
Family Photos: Take time to snap some family pictures. It doesn’t need to be formal—just capturing everyone together can be a wonderful memory to look back on.

I'm wishing each and everyone of you a wonderful break and Happy Thanksgiving!

Mrs. Erin Waterman

(Master's School Counseling and Educational Leadership)

Office: 479-750-8874

Email: ewaterman@sdale.org

SCHOOL-BASED MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDERS

November Core Value

SEE IT:

Read the following quotes and have each family member pick their favorite. Tell each other why it is your favorite and what it means to you.

That’s what I consider true generosity: You give your all and yet you always feel as if it costs you nothing. — Simone de Beauvoir

You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you. — John Bunyan

Generosity could be as contagious as the zombie plague as long as enough people were willing to be carriers. — Jonathan Mayberry

Money is but one venue for generosity. Kindness is an even more valuable currency. — Alan Cohen

The most truly generous persons are those who give silently without hope of praise or reward. — Carol Ryrie Brink

Beyond blessed I am, and that’s why I give it back to anyone that’s around me in my presence! — LeBron James

BE IT:

As a family, create a quote about generosity. Decide why it is important, how it supports the family, how it improves your life and others’ lives, and the positive impact it has on the world. Once you have a quote that summarizes the importance of generosity, write it on a poster and hang it where the whole family can read it every day. Look for ways that you and your family can live out the spirit of generosity.