I am absolutely loving this fall weather we have been having so far! September feels like it flew by and I can't believe we are already one month into the school year. Over the past few weeks, I have loved visiting classrooms and introducing myself to our Huckleberry Heroes so they can learn more about how I can support them here at HHS! As we continue to settle into the new school year, it is important we are patient and understand that it might take some children more time to adjust to the routines and procedures here at school.

Take a look at the articles, podcasts, and activities in this month's newsletter!

Feel free to check out this video I created last year to help you learn more about my role at HHS.

Try making your own homemade scented play dough! Apple pie scented is perfect for fall! This project will require some adult help. Have fun squeezing, smashing, and molding the play dough. It is also a great sensory activity and the scents are an added bonus.

Apple Pie Play Dough Instructions

Lynn Lyons is an international speaker and psychotherapist based in Concord, New Hampshire who helps children and families manage anxiety disorders. In this podcast, which is part two of a three part series, "we unpack the three essential skills every parent should help to develop in their children to prevent anxiety issues from developing: Autonomy, Flexibility, and Problem Solving."

Podcast

Watch as the main character, Cora, changes her mindset from listening to the worried "what-ifs" to finding the positives!

Dr. Becky Kennedy is a clinical psychologist and during the pandemic created a podcast, called "Good Inside with Dr. Becky". Dr. Becky offers advice and strategies that can parents can start implementing immediately. In this episode, Dr. Becky talks about how we can help our children work through their fears. She shares why kids develop fears, the significance of how we respond to their fears, and nearly 10 strategies to help them cope—from retelling the story of what happened to naming conflicting feelings (like scared and excited) with "parts language."

Podcast

Looking for a fun, non-spooky Halloween craft? Be creative adding different colors, googly eyes, arms and legs to your monster!

Coffee Filter Monster Instructions

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

School Adjustment Counselor Website

Ms. Brennet is officially on Twitter. Follow my page for SEL updates, articles, and other helpful tips throughout the school year. @msbrennetHHS

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/

***Please note that they are experiencing longer wait times when you call the service. If you cannot get through when you call, feel free to leave a voicemail and they will call you back. Waitlist times for services are dependent upon families individual needs and can be from a few days to several weeks.***

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

September 2021

Gabriela Brennet, MA Mental Health Counseling

School Adjustment Counselor

Huckleberry Hill Elementary School

Email: brennetg@lynnfield.k12.ma.us

Phone: (781) 334-5835 x3345

Twitter: @msbrennetHHS