Family Engagement Newsletter
Calhoun County Schools: November 2021
A Time for Thanks
Ways to Build Connection
For children and teens, relationships and connecting with others impact multiple areas including physical, social, and emotional development. As a parent/caregiver, you can foster healthy connections with your child in multiple ways.
Positive Interaction & Affirmation
When you are with your child, look them in the eye, listen to what they have to say, and acknowledge their feelings. Praise their successes and encourage them to when they are down.
Quality Time/Create Traditions
Be present with your child, distraction free. Create traditions that are specific to you and your child or you and your family.
Share in Your Child's Interests
What does your child enjoy? What are they passionate about? Share in these activities with your child - seek out opportunities that further their knowledge, skill, etc. of their interest!
Problem Solve
Assist your child in problem solving; work alongside them through different situations so they know appropriate ways to handle difficulties. When possible, provide your child with healthy, age-appropriate decision making opportunities allowing them to exert independence and control.
Engage in Play
Play is important in a child's overall development. Play is a form of expression and as a parent, your presence and undivided attention during this time can help build a sense a safety and trust of others.
Sources:
https://www.familyservicesnew.org/news/8-ways-to-strengthen-a-parent-child-relationship/
Thanksgiving Post Cards
Click on the link below to download Thanksgiving postcards that can be delivered to your child's favorite teacher, school counselor, friend, or family member! Assist your child in writing through the following prompts:
Who are you thankful for?
How has this person helped you in the past?
Share a fun memory of you and that person.
Thanksgiving Meal: Math Activity
Are you preparing your grocery store trip for Thanksgiving? If so, this math activity is perfect for you and your child to work on together!
Geared for elementary aged students, your child can plan out what meat, side, and dessert they want for their Thanksgiving meal, using addition to see what their total cost at the grocery store would be.
For older students, modify the question further by asking what the cost would be if the store was running a 50% off special on meat, how much tax would be if added, or letting them look up actual prices of each item online or in store!
Food Pantries in Calhoun County
Could you or another family you know benefit from food assistance during the holiday season? Calhoun County has multiple agencies that can assist with connecting families to food.
Below you will find a few of these local resources; you can find additional assistance by dialing 2-1-1 on your phone. Please be sure to call the agency of choice prior to going as some have select hours or require you to bring certain paperwork!
Community Enabler
(256) 237-6144
Salvation Army
(256) 236-5643
Baptist Service Center NW
(256) 847-3525
Baptist Service Center S
(256) 831-4691
Family Services Center
(256) 231-2240
Piedmont Benevolence (36272 zip code service area)
(256) 447-2220
Jacksonville Christian Outreach
(256) 435-1891
All Saints Interfaith Center of Concern
(256) 236-7793
Community Events in November:
Anniston Public Library
Lego Club Meeting
Wednesday, Nov 10, 2021
3:30 - 5:30 PM
Anime Club Meeting
Thursday, Nov 11, 2021
4:00 - 5:00 PM
Free Computer Classes - Carver Branch Library
Every Tuesday & Thursday
9:00 AM
Oxford Public Library
Free Grief Counseling Services
1st Thursday of every month
2:00 PM
Reminder: Thanksgiving break is November 22nd - 26th! Enjoy this time with your family!
A Word from the Family Engagement Specialist...
Didn't get the chance to complete it? Click on the following link and share your thoughts: https://www.smore.com/xh7sp
Kristen Fargason, LMSW
Elementary Homeless Liaison
Email: kfargason@ccboe.us
Website: https://www.calhouncountyschools.com/?CFID=2503659&CFTOKEN=88d6c7c1b8931bd7-6F3D21B5-C167-4357-7E9B7E64076C9405
Location: 4400 McClellan Boulevard, Anniston, AL, USA
Phone: 256-741-7423