Jackson Journal
February 2017
A Word From Our Principal....
Enjoying Valentine's Day as a Family-A few ideas to share from a recent online article:
· Express "I love you" in words and notes. A simple note that says, "I love you," under a pillow, in a backpack, or in a lunch bag can remind a child throughout the day of your love for her, even when you're not together.
· Spend meaningful time with your children. As busy parents, we often find ourselves rushing from place to place and chore to chore. Even though it's difficult, turn off the television, put down the cell phone, and spend meaningful time with your child, rather than just near him. A simple place to start is to have dinner as a family as often as possible. Turn the television off and talk; talk about your day, your friends, maybe even take turns asking "what would you do if..." questions. There are plenty of kids activities you can find for children of all ages and stages.
· Make something with your child for Valentine's Day. It doesn't have to be an elaborate or complicated project. Keep it simple: do a Valentine's Day crafts for kids using everyday objects; make up a song while driving in the car; write a poem with refrigerator magnets; or cook a meal together.
· Celebrate your child's best efforts rather than focus on achievements. Consider when your child was an infant learning to walk. Surely you cheered her every effort from pulling up, to walking while holding onto furniture, to her first steps. As children get older, we tend to focus more on accomplishments like grades or winning games than we do on efforts, like learning a new concept or being willing to try a new activity. Be sure to offer words of encouragement to recognize your child's efforts, even if they don't result in winning achievements.
· Dream with your child. Remember as a child lying on your back and looking at the sky, naming the shapes of clouds floating by and thinking about life - just daydreaming. Simple thoughts and conversations can spark the imagination, plant a seed of curiosity, or begin a dream. So hang out and dream with your child.
· Let go, listen, and laugh. Our schedules have become so hectic and our commitments so plentiful that we often become rigid in our routines and focused on what needs to get done rather than enjoying the present. Show your kids you love them by committing to slow down, even if it's only one day a week, and let the schedule go. Lie on the couch and read a book together even when there are dishes in the sink. Make up jokes together even when there is dusting to be done. Take a walk together and ask your child what he wants to talk about and listen intently, even if you had something else on your mind.
Teaching children how to express love can be a gift that lasts for a lifetime. Here are a few simple ways to teach your child how to express love throughout the year:
· Model and teach your child about love, friendship, kindness, and inclusion. Being a conscious role model is as important as any other teaching strategy. Show your child the meaning of tolerance and acceptance: what it means to be a good friend, to include others, and to demonstrate kindness.
· Express your love, gratitude, and compassion for the community. Giving and expressing love can be very powerful for both the giver and receiver. Think of ways to show gratitude, compassion, and love for the world and community.
· Be a good friend. School Valentine's Day parties are common and the trading of cards is an exciting activity in most classrooms. This is a great opportunity to help children think about friendships. Whether you purchase or make cards, sit with your child as she creates or signs them and talk about her classmates and what it means to be a good friend.
Kristin Turner, Ed.D.
Principal
Jackson Elementary
Kingsport City Schools
378-2250
It's Yearbook Time!
Club Day!
Drum roll, please!!!
The first name drawn for perfect attendance was Ayden Martin in 3rd grade! Ayden was present every day during the first week of our contest! He receives a special prize this week. Another name will be drawn on Friday!
Telemedicine Reminder
Save yourself a trip to the pediatrician's office and take advantage of the KCS Telemedicine program. If you have questions, call our school nurse, Mrs. Testerman, at 378-2247.