ERP Team's Monthly Messenger
February, 2021
Shenquaya Clements, Social Worker sclements@nbfacademy.org
Gregory Marable, Restorative Coordinator gmarable@nbfacademy.org
Kenesha Willis, School Nurse kwillis@nbfacademy.org
What is Digital Drama?
The everyday tiffs and disputes that occur between friends or acquaintances online or via text. Note: Unlike cyberbullying, which involves repeated digital harassment toward someone, drama is broader and more nuanced. That being said, kids and teens sometimes use the term drama to distance themselves from emotionally difficult behavior. Digital drama can still feel very real to students, lead to hurt feelings, and even damage friendships. In some cases, digital drama can escalate into an offline fight – either verbal or physical (commonsense.org).
Ask how they are ... then ask again.
It may seem simple, but ask your kids how they are doing on a daily basis. Also, watch for telltale signs that they are suffering from digital drama — a change in mood or behavior — as your kids interact with their phone and other devices. They may be absorbing subtle social messages in not-so-healthy ways. Ask lots of questions to determine how your kids view media and interact with technology. What are their favorite tools? Why do they value technology? What are some benefits as well as pitfalls of our 24/7 world?
Hit the pause button.
If your child is on the receiving end of someone else’s hurtful online behavior, encourage him to “take it offline.” It may be tempting to continue the conversation online; however, face-to-face can be more constructive. The lack of body language, facial expressions, and tone with online communication easily can lead to misunderstandings. Encourage kids to “walk in another’s shoes” to make sure that they are considering all perspectives. At the very least, “taking it offline” will give your child time to process how to act — rather than just react.
Read between the lines.
With the popularity of photo sharing, kids often receive evidence that they were not included … which then leads to feelings of exclusion. Imagine your child seeing a photo of friends at dinner and realizing that she was not invited. While it is true that no one is included in everything, it is a hard rite of passage for kids to learn — and often they just need a sympathetic ear or an alternative social activity. Unfortunately, some kids use online photos to intentionally tag the kids who weren’t invited — a not-so subtle message of exclusion. In these cases, let your children know that they are supported, and talk about strategies to mend a riff or dispel a fight.
Did you know?? February is...
Prevention
- Establish a dental home within 6 months of child receiving their first teeth and no later than 12 months of age. Why? To conduct a proper initial dental screen and risk assessment. You will also be provided with education and recommendations for good oral health behaviors.
- Continue your routine dental appointments as directed by your Dentist and Oral Hygienist.
- Practice good oral health habits such as brushing/flossing in the morning and before bed. Brushing/flossing at night is very important! Sugar and food particles remaining on your teeth overnight is what leads to dental decay.
- Eat healthy food that contribute to a healthy mouth and body while avoiding those foods that can lead to dental decay. I.e. sugary, sticky foods and candy.
Parent/Guardian To Do List:
- If your child is in Pre-K or Kindergarten establish a dental home if you haven’t already and make an appointment ASAP. Use the link below to find a dentist near you. https://www.insurekidsnow.gov/find-a-dentist/index.html
- Connecticut State law requires an oral health assessment be conducted: prior to school enrollment, in 6th or 7th grade, and in 9th or 10th grade.
- Be sure to ask for a school form whenever you go to the dentist for your child. Click the link below to access the CT Oral Health assessment form. https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/SDE/School-Nursing/Forms/HAR3_oral_health_screening_rev-7_2018.pdf?la=en#:~:text=State%20law%20requires%20that%20each,the%20local%20board%20of%20education