“First Day Critter Jitters” by Jory John
In this lesson, Ms. Shaw talks about back to school feelings by reading the story “First Day Critter Jitters”. It’s completely normal for children to feel nervous about starting a new school year and through the read aloud, they learn this very message. Ms. Shaw models a strategy called “birthday candle breaths” to use when we feel nervous. Encourage your child to take five slow, deliberate breaths anytime they’re nervous (psst! it’s extra fun if you pretend each finger is a birthday candle that you get to blow out!)
“All Are Welcome” by Alexandra Penfold
In this lesson, Ms. Shaw talks about what kind of school we want to create–including how we want to feel and how we want others to feel. Ms. Shaw reads the story “All Are Welcome” to illustrate how when we create a welcoming and inclusive school community for everyone, we feel safe, happy, loved, and ready to learn. This lesson ends with a mindful moment to practice welcoming others with an open and loving heart.
Primary Meet the Counselor Lesson
This lesson is designed for Primary students (grades Kindergarten through 2nd) to learn about the role of a school counselor. Each part of Mr. Potato Head’s body relates to something a school counselor does (ears to listen to students’ feelings and problems, mouth to speak kind words, arms to give hugs, etc.) Ms. Shaw also welcomes students to print and color this “What Does a School Counselor Do?” coloring sheet to reinforce all the roles of a school counselor.
Intermediate Meet the Counselor Lesson
This lesson is designed for Intermediate students (grades 3rd through 5th) to learn about the role of a school counselor and to get to know Ms. Shaw a little bit better! Topics discussed include: reasons students might talk to a school counselor, confidentiality and its limits, and how to contact me.