October 2022 School Counselor Newsletter
Dear St. John Families,
Happy October! I’ve so loved getting to reconnect with everyone since we’ve returned to school. With over a month of school under our belts, students seem settled back into the routine and rhythm of school, which has been great to see. Speaking of routines, I want to use this newsletter as an opportunity to share about the importance of routines for children.
When strong routines are in place they create consistency and predictability, which, in turn, helps children feel safe. Here at school, our students’ days are full of routines—prayer and pledge to start the day, morning meetings, prayer before meals, mindfulness practices and quiet time after lunch—I could go on! Routines and rituals are so powerful in keeping us organized and creating a sense of safety and security.
And routines and rituals are just as beneficial at home! I encourage you to check out this article from Sound Discipline on the value of routines and suggestions for ways to create them at home.
As always, please feel free to contact me at cshaw@st-johnschool.org. I work with students and families throughout the week and am happy to help you in whatever way I can!
Ms. Shaw
October Resources
- The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is hosting a free “Family & Friends” seminar to inform people who have loved ones with a mental health condition. This is a great opportunity to learn more about mental illness and how to support someone you love who is experiencing a mental illness. Learn more and sign up here.
- Fads, stunts, and challenges are nothing new, but some of the viral social media challenges are becoming increasingly risky and dangerous. This is a great article from Common Sense Media on how to help kids navigate viral social media challenges.
- Looking for ways to strengthen your child’s social-emotional development? Check out this talk Hamlin Robinson School’s Learning Center is hosting on October 20th at 6:30pm.