TIPS TO SUPPORT KIDS THROUGH THE COVID CRISIS

KEEP ROUTINES IN PLACE

The experts all agree that setting and sticking to a regular schedule is key, even when you’re all at home all day. Whenever possible, try to make sure kids still have some structure — for example, getting up, eating and going to bed around the same time every day. Consistency and structure are calming during times of stress. Kids, especially younger ones or those who are anxious, benefit from knowing what’s going to happen and when.

BE CREATIVE ABOUT NEW ACTIVITIES---& EXERCISE

Incorporate new activities into your routine, like doing a puzzle or having family game time in the evening. Build in activities that help everyone get some exercise. Take a daily family walk or bike ride or do yoga — great ways to let kids burn off energy and make sure everyone is staying active.

Keep your support network strong, even when you’re only able to call or text friends and family. Socializing plays an important role in regulating your mood and helping you stay grounded. And the same is true for your children.

Let kids use social media (within reason) and Skype or FaceTime to stay connected to peers even if they aren’t usually allowed to do so. Communication can help kids feel less alone and mitigate some of the stress that comes from being away from friends.

Check in with Little Kids

Check in with younger children periodically and give them the chance to process any worries they may be having. Pick a calm, undistracted time and gently ask how they’re feeling and make sure to respond in a calm, consistent, comforting way.

School counselors are expected to help students work through issues related to academics, health, social, personal and family problems

The school counselor listens, documents and helps students process their problems, providing referrals to other resources as needed.

They are mediators, negotiators and advocates for students, and they also design and implement programs to help everyone thrive in the school setting while preparing them for the next stages in their lives.

10 Traits Ms. Lisa Has That Make Her a GREAT School Counselor!

A good listener

A good communicator

Being friendly

 Accept & embrace diversity

Being authoritative

Being well-rounded

Being able to coordinate

Good evaluation skills

Sense of humor

BEING KIND

• Ms. Lisa’s duties include providing:
•  individual student academic planning and goal setting
•  school counseling classroom lessons based on student success standards
•  short-term counseling to students
•  referrals for long-term support
• collaboration with families/teachers/ administrators/community for student success
• advocacy for students at individual education plan meetings and other student-focused meetings
• data analysis to identify student issues, needs and challenges
•  acting as a systems change agent to improve equity and access, achievement and opportunities for all students