Lower School - 3/4
Dear Lower School Families,
Over the past several weeks, we have noticed a growing theme across our lower school, some students are working hard to figure out where they fit, how they belong, and how to feel secure in friendships and in the classroom. When students feel unsure of their place, it can show up as behavior that surprises us, unkind words, conflict at recess, refusal, arguing, or a strong need to be in control, even when the child knows the better choice and even when it does not reflect how they are being raised.
Sometimes these behaviors are not simply “misbehavior,” they can also be a child’s stress response. When children have experienced something overwhelming, frightening, confusing, or deeply disappointing, their bodies can stay on high alert. This is often called trauma, and it can come from many sources, a single event or ongoing stress, changes at home, loss, conflict, instability, or feeling unsafe. We do not assume this is true for every child, but it is one important lens that helps us respond wisely and compassionately.
When stress is surfacing, a child may try to regain control, react strongly to small problems, misread peer intentions, or lash out to protect themselves. This does not excuse hurtful behavior, but it helps us address the root needs while still holding firm boundaries.
How can families help?
- Use shared language at home, “When you feel overwhelmed, pause, breathe, ask for help, then make it right,”
- Reinforce identity and belonging, your child is deeply loved, made in God’s image, and called to grow in self-control and kindness
- Pray short prayers with your child for real moments, “Lord help me be a peacemaker,” “Jesus, help me choose self-control,”
- If your child reports ongoing conflict, let us know early so we can support proactively
We are grateful for your partnership as we help students learn to handle big feelings in healthy ways, and to treat others with the dignity and kindness that honors the Lord.
In His Service,
Dr. Rachel David
Lower School Principal
PreK
K-Grade 1
Grade 2-4
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the ways You teach us to love one another. Help us remember what we learned earlier this week about choosing kindness, even when it’s difficult. Give us eyes to see the people around us who need a friend, a kind word, or a place to belong.
When we feel frustrated or tempted to be unkind, remind us of Your truth. Strengthen us to do what is good, to include others, and to build peace in our school. Let our actions reflect Your love so that we do not overcome evil with more hurt, but overcome evil with good.
Fill our hearts with patience, courage, and compassion today.
In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen
