Wildcat Counseling Corner
November 2021
A Message from the School Counselors!
We are so grateful to be able to spend time with all our wildcats. We enjoy seeing their excitement and love for learning as we teach our guidance lessons and interact with them on a daily basis. This time of year we show gratitude for being able to do what we do every day!
"The word gratitude is derived from the Latin word gratia, which means grace, graciousness, or gratefulness (depending on the context). In some ways gratitude encompasses all of these meanings. Gratitude is a thankful appreciation for what an individual receives, whether tangible or intangible. With gratitude, people acknowledge the goodness in their lives. In the process, people usually recognize that the source of that goodness lies at least partially outside themselves. As a result, gratitude also helps people connect to something larger than themselves as individuals — whether to other people, nature, or a higher power." (www.health.harvard.edu: full link to article shared below).
According to Psychology Today Gratitude Can:
- Improve and strengthen relationships and foster new ones
- Improve physical health
- Improve psychological health
- Increase empathy and reduce aggression
- Improve sleep
- Increase mental strength
The link below, "Gratitude for Kids," shares some simple ways to teach and practice gratitude at home.
Mrs. Breda and Ms. Garza
What's Happening In Guidance?
Additionally, we know that elementary school students are at a critical age for developing career and postsecondary aspirations. Children are very observant; they regularly evaluate the characteristics and qualities of people in specific types of careers and postsecondary paths. They also absorb messages they hear from family, peers, and the media. Students apply these observations and messages, forming opinions about which careers and postsecondary paths are compatible with their own unique qualities. We will finish off the month discussing different career choices that students might be interested in.
Teaching about Gratitude at Home
Fun At Home Activity
Gratitude Jar
You can teach your kids gratitude with a daily gratitude jar activity. Each day, ask your little ones to write down something they’re thankful for. The power of positive thinking can improve their mood and happiness.
To do this activity at home, you’ll need:
- 3 sheets of regular paper
- 1 sheet of sticker paper
- Scissors
- A color printer
- A mason jar
Directions: Start your gratitude jar by printing the cards below on colored paper. Cut along the lines to get 10 gratitude to-do’s. For a full month’s supply, print three times. From there, replace your regular paper with sticker paper and print the gratitude jar label. Cut this label and attach to a mason jar. Voila! You’re ready to start your gratitude jar. Decorate your jar with colorful ribbon or paint.