The Counseling Connect
August 2020
Welcome Back!
During difficult times like these, it is important that we lean on one another for support. We want everyone to know that in spite of school being closed to students, the LaSalle Springs Counseling Team is here to support EACH of YOU! Although it may be non-traditional and it may take time to figure out the technology best suited for working remotely, we stay committed to our mission of assisting you.
Monday through Friday, each member of the Counseling Department will be available via email that will be checked periodically throughout the day. Students and parents should plan to communicate with us via email and, if needed, are welcome to request video or phone “appointments” to take place during school hours. We will do our best to accommodate each of those requests. Each counselor also has their own canvas page where students and parents have access to resources, announcements, counseling lessons, student appointment requests and each of our zoom links.
The social/emotional development of each of our students is a top priority in the counseling office and we understand that online learning provides added stress and anxiety to many. We are here to help make an impossible situation more manageable. If there is anything that we can provide for your child or any suggestions you may have to help our students. please let us know!
Ms. Giden, 6th Grade Counselor
Mrs. Patton, 7th Grade Counselor
Mr. Barnhart, 8th Grade Counselor
Meet the New School Social Worker, Mrs. Kori Wright
Alive and Well Series
Community Partners in Prevention and Rockwood Student Services are hosting a series of workshops for parents from Alive & Well as a part of a larger series for parents this fall. The information is below and a flyer is linked below.
Sept 8, 6:30-8 pm – Self Care is the Best Care
Sometimes we’re so busy with taking care of others that we forget to take care of ourselves. During this interactive workshop, you will learn about the importance of self-care and easy activities to do in order to relax and attain emotional well-being.
To register for this workshop, click here.
Sept 15, 6:30-8 pm – Know Thyself
Got stress? We got you! During this workshop series, a resident from our community will lead a discussion on the impact stress has on us, our neighborhoods, and how we can begin healing.
To register for this workshop, click here.
Sept 22, 6:30-8 pm – Together we Triumph
Got an idea on how to change your community? Let’s turn that idea to action! During this workshop, we will lead a discussion on how stress is impacting our community and what steps we can take together towards positive action and change.
To register for this workshop, click here.Student Self Care- Tips for Online Learning
Have a dedicated workspace- Having a designated workspace signals to your brain that it is time to work on assignments and then time to end schoolwork when you leave this area. This does not have be an entire room, this can be an area of a room where your materials and computer stay.
Commit to school hours- It is easy to get distracted when school takes place at home. Set a time everyday that you will dedicate to your assignments. Make sure SnapChat, Fortnite, TikTok, and COD are not open during this dedicated time. I know I love a good TikTok, but I can wait until my school hours are over!
Have a routine and write it down- Know the expectations for logins and assignment submissions. Keep your routine similar to what you are used to: get up, shower, and get ready for your day. Do you have siblings in your home? Brainstorm what your routine looks like together!
Take breaks during your day- Make sure to step away from your school work during lunch or snacks and add breaks for movement, mindfulness and healthy activities. Your brain needs time to relax and recharge. You can view 51 mindfulness activity ideas here: Mindfulness activities
Intentionally end your day: This signals to your brain that "work" is done for the day. Try stretching or running in place to give your brain that needed signal.
Practice gratitude- Studies show that practicing acts of gratitude can actually change the brain to focus on the positive and help you feel more at ease in times of stress or uncertainty. Intentionally think of 3 you are grateful for each day. Share with a family member or friend! To get ideas on gratitude journal prompts, look here: 120 gratitude journal prompts.
Practice healthy activities- Team together with those in your home to try new games, projects or activities. For more ideas, look here: Resources for parents while isolated.
Check in with a positive friend and others- Reach out to someone each day to have a non-school related conversation.
Mr. Eric Barnhart, 8th Grade Counselor
Email: barnharteric@rsdmo.org
Phone: 636-733-4227