December is often a fast paced month filled with school activities, personal commitments, and the anticipation of the long December break in the air. As adults, we often feel easily overwhelmed with our long to-do lists and packed calendars. Let's not forget that the children around us can sense our feelings and develop some big feelings of their own. I encourage you to take some time to slow down and be present with your children this month.
Some students (and adults!) count down the days in the long vacation week, while other students begin to worry about the long amount of time spent away from school. Time off from school can mean a lack of consistency and structure that is naturally built into a school day. Plan ahead and try implementing some sort of structure into your vacation week (i.e. consistent meal times, consistent bed times, etc.). If your child is someone who has a hard time returning to school after a break, reach out to your child's teacher to make a plan.
I hope everyone has a safe, happy, and healthy month of December and December break!
Preparing for Difficult Relatives: A Holiday Survival Plan
Lynn Lyons is an international speaker and psychotherapist based in Concord, New Hampshire who helps children and families manage anxiety disorders. In this podcast, Lynn discusses "the most common and stressful holiday traps and how you and your family can disrupt them."
Reclaim the Holidays for YOU
Dr. Becky Kennedy is a clinical psychologist, parent, and founder of the podcast, Good Inside. In this episode, Dr. Becky discusses "gatherings, boundaries, and how we can create meaningful moments together."
Snow Person Sensory Bottle
Check out this fun spin on a sensory bottle! Sensory bottles are a great distraction tool and can also be used to help guide and slow down your breathing. Turn your sensory bottles into snow people in a few easy steps! Take a look at the directions linked below.
Ms.Hunt has made the transition over to Instagram this year! Follow my page for SEL updates, articles, and other helpful tips throughout the school year!
Looking for more resources? Check out the Adjustment Counselor website for SEL information, resources, and more!
The "Massachusetts Behavioral Help Line" is a relatively new resource to all Massachusetts residents. They can connect you with providers in your area based on your insurance, distance willing to travel, and other identified needs. You can reach them 24/7, 365 days a year. The number to call or text is (833) 773-2445. You can also live chat at www.masshelpline.com/chat.
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