Hello Families!
Here is a recap of topics discussed this month in classroom guidance lessons. In Kindergarten and First Grade, we learned a new calming technique called EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques), also known as "tapping." EFT involves gently tapping on specific points on the body—like the side of the hand or the top of the head—while saying words that help children name their feelings and feel more in control.
We read the book Gorilla Thumps and Bear Hugs by Alex Ortner which gives kids a playful and easy way to understand how tapping works and why it helps.
Tapping can be especially helpful when children are feeling anxious, frustrated, or overwhelmed. It’s a simple tool they can use at school, at home, or anywhere they need a moment to reset.
Here’s a sample tapping script we use when a student is feeling worried:
Step 1: Tap the side of the hand (karate chop point) while saying:
“Even though I feel worried right now, I’m okay, and I’m learning how to feel better.”
(Repeat 2–3 times.)
Step 2: Tap through the following points while repeating simple phrases:
Eyebrow: “This worried feeling.”
Side of the eye: “I feel it in my body.”
Under the eye: “It’s okay to feel worried sometimes.”
Under the nose: “I’m safe right now.”
Chin: “I can handle this.”
Collarbone: “I’m doing the best I can.”
Under the arm: “This worry is starting to fade.”
Top of the head: “I’m calm and strong.”
After tapping, students are encouraged to take a deep breath and check in with how they feel. Often, just a few rounds can bring noticeable relief. I encourage you to have your child show you and try it, I'd love to hear about how it's being used at home! There are a variety of videos on Youtube that can guide you through it.
In Second Grade, we learned all about careers! We read Jobs People Do and then explored a variety of careers while discussing the different types of tools used in each different career. Students created tools out of Play-Doh for careers such as a carpenter, baker, photographer, nurse, and many more!
In Third Grade, students were introduced to careers, learned the main elements of a career (daily tasks, work setting, lifestyle, training/education) and how these elements help determine if the career is a good fit. We also discussed how our interests in careers change over time. Students then created a career interest inventory to begin thinking about a path they may want to take. We had a blast discussing future options!
In Fourth Grade, students took a career cluster inventory. While the results of the inventory may or may not dictate the career they will have in the future, it provides them information about their own interests and how these might relate to careers later. Ask your child which was their highest career cluster and which job(s) they are interested in within that cluster.
Fifth Grade students took the Panorama Survey. I will be in those classrooms for one last classroom guidance lesson in May before they soar off to middle school!
GRIN provides weekend snack bags to be sent home on Fridays for families in need. If this is something you would be interested in, please email me at jasink@gjps.org.
If you have a social, emotional concern for your child that impacts them while they are at school and would like to share this with me to see how we can help support your child, please reach out to me at jasink@gjps.org.
Best,
Krysten Jasin - School Counselor
The Heart and Pride Award recognizes two outstanding staff members each month who make a profound impact on our students and Gahanna-Jefferson Public Schools.
The Heart & Pride Nomination Form will remain available year-round and is open to any member of our staff, regardless of position.
*Please note that OST dates appear on the calendar above in this newsletter.
Tuesday, April 29:
*PTO Spring Flower Pick up 2-6 p.m.
*Kindergarten Open House for NEW Kinder Students 25-26 school year 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Friday, May 2: No School for Students; Staff Professional Development Day
Monday, May 5--Friday, May 9: Teacher Appreciation Week
Tuesday, May 6: PTO Meeting 7-8 p.m.
Friday, May 9:
*PAWS Breakfast 7:30-8:30 a.m.
*PTO Carnival
Wednesday, May 21: Field Day
Thursday, May 22:
*PAWS breakfast 7:30-8:30 a.m.
*Kindergarten Celebration 9-10 a.m.
Friday, May 23: Last Day of School