Rising Eagles

Dear Audubon Families,

We are excited to begin our new family learning series, Rising Eagles: Building Grit, Self-Control, & Integrity. Over the next three weeks, our goal is to partner with families to help students better understand their emotions, develop perseverance, and strengthen decision-making skills.

This week our focus is GRIT—the ability to keep trying even when something is challenging. When children learn that their brains can grow through effort and practice, they begin to see mistakes and struggles as opportunities to learn rather than reasons to give up. Helping students build grit is an important part of social-emotional learning (SEL) and supports success both in school and in life.

During Week 1, families will explore:

• How the brain works when we face challenges

• The Upstairs Brain (thinking brain) and Downstairs Brain (feeling brain)

• How the Green and Yellow Zones of Regulation help us recognize frustration while continuing to try

You will watch a short video and story together, complete a quick Blooket review, and participate in a simple family activity that helps students visualize how their brain works during challenges.

Earning Points for Your Family Activity Book

Students can earn a special activity book by participating in the series. To receive the book, families need to earn 30 total points.

Points can be earned by completing the weekly activities:

• Blooket completion: 10 points

• Family challenge submission: 10 points

By participating each week, families will easily earn enough points to receive a great activity book focused on brain science and emotional skills. These books will help students continue practicing what they learn throughout the series.

This week’s activity is the Hand-Brain Map. Families will trace their hands and label parts of the brain to help students understand how their “thinking brain” and “feeling brain” work together when they face challenges. Hint: use the video if you need help!