It is hard to believe that the end of the year is right around the corner! I have thoroughly enjoyed my first year as counselor here at HES. As we look forward to special end of the year activities such as field day, the fun run and 4th grade clap up, it is important to look back on all the things that we have learned this year. During our Character Education time in wheel, all students at HES learned about the 7 Habits of Happy Kids. We have been proactive about beginning with the end in mind and having a plan for success!We learned that it is important for our friendships to think win-win by seeking first to understand, then to be understood. Finally, it is important to remember to sharpen the saw by having balance in our lives. We work best when we also have had time for fun and play! It is my hope that as we continue to focus on our building pillars of Respect, Responsibility and Integrity, these 7 Habits can truly become the way we work and play together everyday.
Another topic that I have enjoyed teaching about this year is the brain! Specifically the “upstairs” and “downstairs” brain. It is important for everyone to know how the brain works so that we can understand what is happening when we experience big emotions such as sadness, anger or even a case of the sillies! Check out this short video that explains how our brain works and what happens we flip our lids! My goal is to teach kids strategies that they can use to get back to their “upstairs brain” and be learning ready!
I am always looking for adults who would like to volunteer to be a big brother or big sister that I can match with our students. If you are someone who would like to learn more about this program, please let me know. I am currently looking for some men who would like to become a mentor. This does not have to be a huge time commitment, often BIGS come and eat lunch with their “little” at school and spend some time playing a game together. I can share more about the program with anyone who is interested!
As always, please let me know if you have any questions or concerns about your child. You can email, call or stop in anytime.
Have a great end of the year!
Mrs. Lafferty
dawn.lafferty@usd460.org
620-327-7102 ext. 4004