It's been a while since we've updated our blog. Just a little busy managing the global pandemic. But we are back with much to share with our Highland families! We have renamed our blog to include the phrase"social emotional learning" to encompass the multiple methods we use to support the health and well being of our students, so they are ready to learn each day. This year, our strategic initiative states "Teachers will use research-based SEL strategies connected to CASEL standards to promote a calm, safe, and respectful school environment that enhances students’ capacity to manage daily learning tasks and support their social-emotional well-being." We believe this is critically important in our ever-changing world.
How can parents prepare their child for the year?
- Practice wearing a mask for short spurts during the day.
- Take a trip to the school playground. It is open to the public and can help students' gain a sense of familiarity.
- Start practicing the morning and bedtime routines. Doctors recommend that children ages 3 to 6 need about 10-12 hours of sleep each day. And 7- to 12-year-olds do best with 10 or 11 hours.
- Encourage your child to take deep breaths before a big task or after a challenging moment.
- Read a picture book about going back to school.
- Practice expressing emotions using words such as overwhelmed, frustrated, confused, or jealous. Communicating feelings clearly can better help resolve problems.
- Create "anchors" or events that your child can look forward to each week.