Ms. McMorrow's Counselor's Weekly
Resources for K-2 Families
November 20, 2020
This week was a bit of a rollercoaster, but that's how our year has been - our students are learning resilience from you and the importance of learning to adapt in unexpected situations.
Aside from that, we cannot thank our P.S. 71 parents enough for supporting us during this unusual year.
Thankfulness
Here is a Gratitude Scavenger Hunt from Making Caring Common:
1. Pick something to look out for.
Early in the week, introduce the scavenger hunt to your child or family and pick at least one thing to look out for throughout the week. For example:
Something or someone that makes me happy
Something or someone that reminds me of the people I love
Something or someone that makes me laugh
Something or someone that makes my life better
Something that I enjoy doing with other people
Something or someone I like more than I thought I would
Something or someone that I could not live without
Someone that helps or supports me, even when I don’t ask
Something that reminds me of a happy memory
Something that makes me appreciative of what I have that some other people might not have
Tip: As a reminder for yourselves, print or handwrite the prompts and display them in a place you can’t miss, like the refrigerator door or somewhere in your child’s bedroom.
2. Express who or what you’re thankful for — and why.
Once each “player” has identified their scavenger hunt item, do one of the following:
Write, draw, or make something that represents that person or thing. For instance, if your child comes up with grandma or grandpa, they can draw him or her.
If it’s an object or something representing a person, hide it until the big reveal at the end of the week.
Encourage your child (or family) to think about why they are grateful for that person or thing.
3. Host a gratitude “show-and-tell” with your family.
Find a time at the end of the week to do a show-and-tell of what each player created or found. Ask each player to explain what they are presented and why. Focus on the “why” behind the “what.”(For example, “I’m thankful for grandpa because he always makes me laugh even when I’m sad.”)
Tip: Lead by example! Answer thoughtfully and focus on the meaning behind the object or person you’re thankful for — what value do they add to your life that makes you thankful?
Make it a habit!
Everyone Can Make Thanksgiving Safer Guide:
Thankful for Me - Activity
Encourage your child to think of reasons that they are thankful for themselves! This is a great way to boost self-esteem and pride.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Finally, I am thankful for all of you and our students! This school year has definitely been different, but meeting with you and your children has been a constant reminder of how wonderful it is to be part of P.S. 71. I hope you and your families have a safe and happy Thanksgiving holiday!