Generated by All in One SEO Pro v5.0.0.1, this is an llms-full.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Confident Counselors made for school counselors by school counselors ## Posts ### [Blog](https://confidentcounselors.com/blog/) **Published:** March 12, 2022 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** This has been autogenerated as a placeholder for blog. --- ### [Return From Winter Break With Success](https://confidentcounselors.com/return-from-winter-break-with-success/) **Published:** January 11, 2021 **Author:** Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor **Content:** Coming back to school after winter break can be difficult. The 2020 school year will be no different with its plethora of unique circumstances. Students and families across the country will return to school and need more time than ever to adjust to the upcoming semester. Whether you are returning face-to-face, virtually, or a combination of both, you can do a few things to set yourself up for success. Check out the eight tips below to find success as you embrace returning to school after winter break. ## Choose Your Mindset Returning to school after winter break is an adjustment for students and staff. In a typical school year, it takes a few days for everyone to get back into the swing of things. Most students are off schedule and tired, and many feel unregulated due to their lack of routine and predictability. Strive to create a healthy mindset that will best serve you. Mentally prepare for the fact that returning to school this year may bring more unique challenges than usual. If it works for you, use visualization and positive self-talk to prepare yourself for what is ahead. Set yourself up for success by creating a plan to maintain a positive mindset and an optimistic outlook. ## Make Connections Many students crave connection and attention. After the break, many are returning to school in person for the first time this school year. The lack of social interaction has likely taken a toll, and students seek attention from adults and peers. Your positive attention and kind words can make all the difference in your students’ lives. Do your best to do quick check-ins with as many students as possible, using their names as frequently as possible. During the first few days back from winter break, set students up for success by being visible at the start of the school day, recess, lunch, and dismissal, making connections with as many kids as possible. Check out these posts for tips on [organizing your documentation](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselor-organization-tracking-communication/) and [supporting school staff](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-staff-as-a-school-counselor/). ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/students-in-face-masks-1.jpg "students in face masks 1") ## Spot the Strugglers Some students will struggle more than others as they return from winter break. Some students were virtual and are returning to face-to-face instruction for the first time this school year. This could be the first time a student has been seen by someone outside their family in months. They may need extra support. Pay special attention to students who look like they are struggling or may need to talk to someone and reach out for assistance. Think of how you want teachers to refer students to you and create a system that works well for you. Could you email or speak at a staff meeting to let teachers and staff know how to contact you and refer students to you? Having a system in place will help you best serve your students, organize your responsibilities, and maintain your sanity while minimizing [over-referrals ](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/11/02/school-counseling-referrals/)from teachers. ## Reach Out with Action Plans Take the time to reach out to parents of students you are concerned about. Whether it be academic, attendance, or behavioral concerns, [work with the family](https://confidentcounselors.com/counselor-parent-relationship/) to set their student up for success right from the start. Help break down barriers and create an action plan for success with the parents and the student (depending on the student’s age). Work with the families to review expectations and develop a plan for how the student will meet those expectations. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/students-in-face-masks-2.jpg "students in face masks 2") Be proactive in considering any differences students face when returning to school after winter break. Has the format for students attending school changed or remained the same? Will students have completely different learning experiences returning from winter break than when they left? What is expected of them now, and how can you best help? Brainstorming possible problems and solutions will help you get off to a much smoother start when everyone returns to school after winter break. ## COVID-Friendly Lessons It’s our job to help build and develop social-emotional skills. With COVID, our job is to keep our students safe and adhere to social distancing guidelines. However, achieving both can be challenging since most of our lessons involve students working in teams and refining their social skills through peer interactions. We must find creative ways to help students develop their skills while keeping them safe from one another. I have started using digital activities to teach social skills while keeping kids safe. Digital activities can be done as a whole group on a Smartboard or individually using an iPad or tablet. They can also be assigned to students in Google Classroom. I have been loving using Google Slides lessons with my students. For my virtual students, it is so easy to pop into Google Classroom, share my screen, and play a fun [coping-skills game](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Calming-Strategies-Google-Slides-Activity-Winter-Themed-6266673?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Return%20From%20Winter%20Break%20With%20Success). I keep [my lessons](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor/Category/Digital-and-Google-Slides-462631) interactive and engaging by using fun graphics and pulling in [holidays](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Calming-Strategies-Google-Slides-Activity-Celebration-Themed-6302117) and school themes. ## Practice Patience The last time most students had a break from school was spring break. Many students left school thinking they’d be back in a week, which ended up being many months before they roamed their school hallways again. Some students still aren’t back in the classroom and haven’t been since that March break. Many students feel unsure about life’s unpredictability and may need extra support sorting out their thoughts and concerns. Be extra patient with everyone, including yourself, to the best of your ability. We are all trying to adapt to new norms. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/students-in-face-masks-3.jpg "students in face masks 3") ## Community Resources Many families are struggling financially and emotionally. Compile a list of available resources to assist families in your community. Find out how to refer families and make the best use of their resources and services. When a family reaches out to you, having a list you can refer to quickly will be such a timesaver. ## Create A Return from Winter Break Care Plan 2020 has been a special kind of stressful. Working in education comes with its fair share of challenges and chaos; 2020 brought a special kind of stress I cannot describe in words. Dedicated time for self-care is more important now than ever before. One thing that works well for me to help prevent getting overwhelmed is having a self-care plan. I don’t mean taking a spa day, although that sounds divine. I mean being intentional in my care, as I would be with my children’s care. For me, my self-care looks like: - Setting boundaries with others by saying no when I need to - Going to bed early and waking up before anyone else to get some quiet time - Going on walks to help organize my thoughts and clear my mind - Taking a moment to breathe with an ice-cold midday Dr. Pepper - Watching low-stakes game shows where everyone is friendly to each other - Reframing negative thoughts as they arise Take the time to determine which [self-care strategies](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/10/11/school-counselor-self-care-tips/) help you be the best version of yourself, and make time to implement them. Listen to your body and speak kindly to yourself. If you are struggling, seek professional assistance or talk to someone about your concerns. Take care of yourself so you can better take care of everyone else. ## We Did It The 2020 school year was hectic and challenged everyone to adapt, persevere, and grow from their experiences. Although extremely difficult, we pulled together as educators and did what was best for our students. We don’t know what 2021 will bring, but following the tips above will help make the start of the year a little bit easier. What tips for returning to school after winter break would you include? Let us know in the comments section below! #### **What tips do you have for returning to school?** Share yours below! **Categories:** Self Care, Your Program **Tags:** back to school, covid --- ### [Creative Ideas to Make Your School Counseling Bulletin Boards Interactive](https://confidentcounselors.com/interactive-school-counseling-bulletin-boards/) **Published:** September 15, 2019 **Author:** Pawsitive School Counselor **Content:** Are you in charge of bulletin boards at your school? Me too! School counseling bulletin boards can be a great tool to share information with teachers, students, and parents. This year, I wanted them to be more engaging than “walk by and look.” Adding QR codes was a simple way to engage stakeholders and make the boards interactive. The best thing is that it’s simple and can be used with any board. ## 3 Steps for Interactive School Counseling Bulletin Boards **Step 1:** Start with your board **Step 2**: Find videos or websites that go with your board **Step 3:** Create a QR Code for Your Resource and Add it to Your Board Yep that’s it. Just a 3- step process. **So how can you use them?** Let me share some of the ways I’m using my interactive bulletin boards. ![School Counseling Bulletin Board](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG_6118.jpg "CC103 In Post School Counseling Bulletin Board")![Step 1: Start with your board](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG_6553-2.png "Step 1: Start with your board")![School Counseling Bulletin Board](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG_6551-e1564608047416.jpg "Interactive Bulletin Boards") ## Ways to Use Interactive School Counseling Bulletin Boards ### Send Parents & Teachers to your Website I spend a lot of time working on my website, but it doesn’t get much traffic. So on the bulletin board closest to our front office and my room, I added a QR code that links to my website. When parents visit, they can easily scan it. Additionally, if I’m not available to meet, they can scan the code, which takes them to my website, where they can email me or fill out our online referral form. I also told teachers about it, so that when they walk by my room, they can easily scan and go. ![School Counseling Bulletin Board](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/CC103-In-Post3.jpg "CC103 | School Counseling Bulletin Board 3") ### Introduce Yourself I used to do a full “Meet The Counselor” lesson, but time is valuable, and I could use those 45 minutes to jump into our curriculum. To solve this problem, I posted a QR code on my “Meet The Counselor” bulletin board that sends visitors to a video of me introducing students to my room. ![School Counseling Bulletin Board](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/CC103-In-Post6.jpg "CC103 | In Post6 School Counseling Bulletin Board") I also have a code that sends scanners to a [StoryBird](http://bit.ly/2yxXcSh) book called “The School Counselor.” The story explains what a counselor does and is super easy to read. With two quick scans, students and parents can meet me and get a better understanding of what I do. I’ve also encouraged teachers to bring iPads on their annual beginning-of-year “school tour” so they can pause, scan, and learn without me being there. ![School Counseling Bulletin Board](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/CC103-In-Post5.jpg "CC103 | In Post5") ### Give Students, Parents, and Teachers More Info I have posters around school inviting students to my “Mindful Mondays” and “Flexible Fridays,” but I realized they may not know what yoga or mindfulness is, or they may be intimidated. To solve the problem, I added code that takes them to a YouTube video explaining mindfulness in kid-friendly terms. I also included one that links to a YouTube video that takes them through a simple yoga routine. Downstairs, we have a school counseling bulletin board that encourages mindfulness practices. I added a code that takes them to a lesson I created in Google Slides called “What is Mindfulness?” As stakeholders have questions about what mindfulness is, they can scan for quick answers rather than email me. ![Interactive Bulletin Boards](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG_6552.png "Interactive Bulletin Boards")![Step 1: Start with your board](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG_6553-2.png "Step 1: Start with your board") ### Bring PBIS Expectations to Life We have our PBIS expectations posted school-wide, including our full matrix by the cafeteria. It’s fantastic to have a visual representation, but I wanted to add to it. Adding QR codes on the matrix that link to Google Slides lessons and videos brings the words to life. I’m hoping to gather more videos of students following the rules this year and add those links and codes to our board. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/CC103-In-Post11.jpg "CC103 | In Post11")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG_6549-2.png "IMG_6549 2") ### Encourage Reading Reading with my students is my passion, but I definitely have more books than days of the school year. This summer, I’ve been recording myself reading my favorite titles (with a guest reader – my dog Boss). Then I added a page on my website called “Read With Boss.” From my website, students can visit my YouTube Channel and watch us read a story. ![Interactive Bulletin Boards](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Screen-Shot-2019-07-31-at-6.08.26-PM.png "Interactive Bulletin Boards") I’ve also put QR codes on our “Meet The Counselor” and “[Story Squad](http://bit.ly/3133WUs)” bulletin boards that send students to our read alouds. Think of the endless possibilities in the library!! Consider creating a school counseling bulletin board with book covers of the books you plan to read this year, and link to each book’s trailer. What a fun way to get students excited about what you are about to read. You could also make a board of books you’ve read. Then add in links to videos of the book so students can revisit stories whenever they want. “The Book Wrangler” has this amazing [QR code](http://bit.ly/2Zy8CRS) that links to over 100 book trailers! He is also the creator of the “Story Squad” bulletin board. ![School Counseling Bulletin Board In Post 7](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CC103-In-Post7.jpg "CC103-In-Post7 School Counseling Bulletin Board") ### Send Students Directly to College or Scholarship Websites The sky is the limit on college and career readiness! Create a bulletin board that shares a college, university, or career of the month. Then use a QR code to send students directly to that college website or to a video about that career. Elementary counselors, did you know that [Near Pod](http://bit.ly/2yy3d1j) has virtual college tours? Yep! Have a lot of due dates coming up? Use a small section of a large board entitled “due dates” and place 1 QR code that links to your website where the dates are listed. Just think, instead of updating bulletin boards, you have to update them online. It’s great for getting students real-time information. ![Interactive bulletin boards](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/IMG_6573-2-e1564610250167.jpg "Interactive bulletin boards") The possibilities are endless with the simple addition of a QR code. Need more Bulletin Board Ideas? Check out [these creative ideas](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/21/school-counseling-bulletin-boards/) from three Confident Counselors! #### **How would you make a bulletin board Interactive?** Share your tips for making it work below! **Categories:** Advocacy, Collaboration, Your Program **Tags:** bulletin boards, digital --- ### [How do you get parent buy-in for counseling services?](https://confidentcounselors.com/parent-buy-in/) **Published:** September 5, 2019 **Author:** The Counseling Teacher Brandy, Counselor Chelsey and EduKate & Inspire **Content:** Parent buy-in for counseling services can be challenging in many communities. Some parents come with preconceived ideas about counseling and what school counselors do. Our roles and the mental health field are constantly changing, and it is our job to educate our school community about what it is we do and how we can help. Let’s see how three Confident Counselors get parent support for counseling services. ### Compare It to a health need Everyone that we work with (i.e., teachers, kids, parents) has been shaped by their previous experiences, cultural beliefs, and norms. These experiences may cause some families to resist counseling services. One of the concepts I always make sure to discuss is the **parallel between mental** **and physical health**. I explain that, similar to a child needing a tool to address a physical health need (e.g., glasses, a wheelchair), there are tools their child may need to ensure success socially, emotionally, and behaviorally. Allowing their child to have access to these tools (counseling, therapy, medication) may be exactly what the child needs to excel! I have found that explaining it in this way can help to break down the stigma around mental health. [![Counselor Chelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/5.png "Counselor Chelsey")](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-chelsey/) ### Talk to families at Open House Back-to-school night is a great time to display pictures, literature, and data that demonstrate the effectiveness of your program. Sometimes parents need to visualize the scope of services you provide and see that you have a data-based program that yields results. Set up a table with a tri-fold display to showcase photos of events you hosted in years past. If you can, include colorful data charts that show clear academic growth from your programs. Include business cards, ASCA standards, an about me page, volunteer sign-up sheets, a tip sheet with advice for parents, and helpful flyers that you may have collected from mailings and conferences. Having tangible resources to take home will remind parents that you are a valuable source of support. If you are short on time, I have a [ready-to-print display kit ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meet-the-Counselor-Brochure-and-Open-House-Kit-4767616?utm_source=CC%20Conversation%20Parent%20Buy-in&utm_campaign=CC%20Parent%20Buy-in)with an editable “meet the counselor” brochure and display board images. If you really want to jazz it up, leave out a handful of social-emotional [coloring brochures](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Social-Emotional-Brochures-Elementary-and-Middle-School-Bundle-4741094?utm_source=CC%20conversation%20post&utm_campaign=CC%20convo%20parent%20buy%20in) to show the range of topics that you support. Parents can take them if they have a specific concern and want to support their student at home as well. [![The Counseling Teacher Brandy](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/6.png "The Counseling Teacher Brandy")](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/the-counseling-teacher-brandy/) ### Communicate about Your Services Throughout the school year, I look for opportunities to communicate with families about my school counseling services. These opportunities allow me to educate parents about my work as a counselor, thereby increasing buy-in. Here are a few communication methods I use: - **Send out a fall newsletter** with helpful tips for the back-to-school season and info about counseling programming. - Create a **“Meet the Counselor” brochure** for all new families. - **Take a photo each time I teach a classroom lesson** and write a caption explaining the lesson’s content. Post the image and caption on the teacher’s Class Dojo page. - Create **a school counseling Weebly website** with information about my counseling programming and links to free resources for families. - Use **our school Twitter account** to send out Tweets about school-wide programming. - **Create a display at Open House** and Parent-Teacher Conferences. Have [free resources](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/25-Ways-to-Ask-a-Child-How-Was-Your-Day-3425323) available at the display for parents to grab. Hang out at the display, when available, to answer questions. - Send out a SignUpGenius form before **Parent-Teacher Conferences** so families can sign up for a time slot to talk with me. - **Send out a newsletter in November** to highlight ways the school can help during the winter months (e.g., food pantries, clothing closets, holiday assistance, free medical care, etc.). [![Edukate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/2.png "Edukate & Inspire")](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/edukate-inspire/) #### **How do you get parents on board with counseling services?** Share your tips in the comments below! **Categories:** Advocacy, Counseling, Counselor Chats, Parents **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Chelsey, EduKate & Inspire, parents, The Counseling Teacher Brandy --- ### [What advice do you have for working with a co-counselor?](https://confidentcounselors.com/working-with-a-co-counselor/) **Published:** September 12, 2019 **Author:** Counselor Up, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor and Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop **Content:** Working with a co-counselor can be such a wonderful part of our jobs. We have someone who understands the ups and downs and can brainstorm. Together, we are better able to serve all students. That said, it’s not automatically a smooth relationship. Check out these tips to help you establish a great working relationship with your co-counselor. ## Clear Boundaries and Expectations Creating lasting relationships is the cornerstone of our jobs as school counselors. If there is more than one counselor at your school, a good working relationship with your co-counselor(s) is essential. This is one of the best ways to ensure you maximize your services and benefit all students. At the start of the school year, my co-counselor and I would sit together and create a clear, concise outline of our roles and responsibilities. We would then divide our caseloads and ensure we covered the school’s needs equally. At that meeting, we also established expectations for each other as teammates and devised a way to communicate if we were struggling or needed something more from each other. Having an open and honest relationship and setting those boundaries and expectations from the beginning minimized the opportunity for conflict and created a climate of mutual respect and understanding. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/13.png "13")](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/mrs-bell-the-crafty-counselor/) ## Be True Partners What makes excellent partnerships work? Knowing each other well and appreciating the other person’s strengths. After working solo for my entire career, I started working with a fantastic co-counselor. I realized that our styles, strategies, and knowledge were different, but they were both valuable. Someone doesn’t have to be me to be excellent at their job! Great partnerships also rely on connection. Get to know each other as people and connect on a personal level. When it’s time to have a challenging conversation at work, that’s easier to do when I know and respect you as a person. When we are connected, we can communicate clearly. Could you be more open about dividing work responsibilities and tasks? Nothing ever divides evenly, so communicating well can help you shift as needed. [![Counselor Up In Post CChat](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/9.png "Counselor Up In Post CChat")](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-up/) ## Skills over Titles As a school psychologist, I worked with a school counselor in my first position. We had different responsibilities linked to our titles and training, but we were both charged with creating a multi-tiered support system for social, emotional, and behavioral skills. We worked together to create a three-tier framework for our K-5 school. This guided how we decided who would do what. Instead of determining our responsibilities by title, we talked openly about our strengths, experience, and availability. I think it’s essential to meet regularly. We met weekly to review teacher referrals and check in on program goals. We also carpooled together! Over time, we found a system that worked well for us and served our program well. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Laura-CC-Author-In-Post.jpg "Laura CC Author In Post")](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/social-emotional-workshop/) #### **How have you and your co-counselor made it work?** Share your tips below! **Categories:** Collaboration, Counselor Chats, Your Program **Tags:** CC tips, co-counselor, Counselor Up, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, Social Emotional Workshop --- ### [Ultimate School Counselor Supply List](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselor-office-essentials/) **Published:** August 16, 2016 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** Time to stock your school counseling office with all the games, supplies, and kid-favorite items! We asked Confident Counselor contributors to share their must-have items and organized them into this Ultimate School Counselor Supply list. Starting a new position? Need a refresh? Want to see what you might be missing? Scroll on! *Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links.* ## Games For School Counseling Classical children’s games can be adapted easily for counseling. - Give a strategy when you get an orange card in **Candy Land**. - Use positive self-talk when you go down a chute in **Chutes & Ladders** or get skipped in **Uno**. - Practice impulse control and focus with **Operation** or **Pickup Sticks**. - **Jenga** is the ultimate chameleon counseling game. Great for an intro small group activity where students say something about themselves each time they pull out a block. **How do you adapt regular games to counseling?** ### Games for PreK – First Counseling Most younger students need games with little or no reading and simple directions. Consider **Hi Ho Cherry-O**, **Don’t Break the Ice**, or **Candy Land**. Younger groups love playing these games cooperatively, and they are fast-paced enough to keep them engaged. ### [](https://counselingessentials.org/games-in-counseling/)Helpful Blog Posts - [Games in Counseling](https://counselingessentials.org/games-in-counseling/) – Counseling Essentials - [Using Games in Counseling](https://www.socialemotionalworkshop.com/using-games-in-counseling/) – Social Emotional Workshop - [7 Counseling Games for Your Office](https://mrsbellthecraftycounselor.com/2021/07/7-counseling-games-for-your-office/) – Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor - [Counseling Games for Kids](https://theresponsivecounselor.com/2013/10/color-coded-questions.html) – The Responsive Counselor ## Fidgets Some of our favorite figets & calming tools. - [Sensory Spiky Glove](http://amzn.to/2iNrlYN) - [Pencil Top Fidgets](http://amzn.to/2wYnyOI) - [Fidget Toy](http://amzn.to/2eq3mdg) - Pool noodles cut into 1-inch donuts - Drawing paper and crayons - Counting box with cotton balls - Mirror. It can help kids look and see how they are feeling. [](https://confidentcounselors.com/fidgets-are-tools-not-toys/) ## [Fidgets are Tools, Not Toys](https://confidentcounselors.com/fidgets-are-tools-not-toys/ "Fidgets are Tools, Not Toys") By The Counseling Teacher Brandy After fidget spinners came on the scene, teachers began banning self-regulation tools from the classroom. [](https://confidentcounselors.com/fidgets-are-tools-not-toys/#more-6183) [Read More](https://confidentcounselors.com/fidgets-are-tools-not-toys/) ## Calm Corners If you don’t already and you have room, consider adding a calm corner in your office. It doesn’t need to be much. A cozy spot with tools to help students regulate big feelings. Try adding breathing boards, mindfulness scripts, or grounding exercises. Don’t forget a feelings chart! [](https://confidentcounselors.com/creating-a-calm-corner/) ## [Creating a Calm Corner In Your Counseling Office](https://confidentcounselors.com/creating-a-calm-corner/ "Creating a Calm Corner In Your Counseling Office") By Social Emotional Workshop If you have space, a calm corner is a great addition to your counseling office. [](https://confidentcounselors.com/creating-a-calm-corner/#more-4890) [Read More](https://confidentcounselors.com/creating-a-calm-corner/) ## Books for School Counseling Our offices are filled with tons of books we can use in classroom lessons, a small group, or with individual students. If you are looking for the perfect book, check out these searchable SEL book lists: - [SEL Book Database](https://www.socialemotionalworkshop.com/sel-book-list/) from Social Emotional Workshop - [Big Book Database](https://pawsitiveschoolcounselor.com/big-book-database/) from Pawsitive School Counselor [](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-book-list/) ## [Books We Love for School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-book-list/ "Books We Love for School Counseling") A book is a dream you hold in your hands. – Neil Gaiman I love this [](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-book-list/#more-3384) [Read More](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-book-list/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/15-must-have-books-elementary-school-counselors/) ## [15 Must Have Books for Elementary School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/15-must-have-books-elementary-school-counselors/ "15 Must Have Books for Elementary School Counselors") Hello Confident Elementary Counselors! Kate, Susan, and Vanessa here to share with you some of [](https://confidentcounselors.com/15-must-have-books-elementary-school-counselors/#more-1618) [Read More](https://confidentcounselors.com/15-must-have-books-elementary-school-counselors/) # **Crafts for School Counseling** Stock up on glue sticks, googly eyes, glitter, and smelly markers. Scrapbooking kits are usually full of goodies. Drop by the dollar section in Target and grab some containers to organize everything. Check out our ***5 Counseling Activities Using Everyday Items*** for creative ideas! [](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-activities-using-string/) ## [5 School Counseling Activities Using String](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-activities-using-string/ "5 School Counseling Activities Using String") By EduKate & Inspire Creating hands-on counseling lessons can be easy and inexpensive. You can often find inspiration by [](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-activities-using-string/#more-2851) [Read More](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-activities-using-string/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-ways-to-use-play-doh-in-school-counseling/) ## [5 School Counseling Activities Using Play Doh](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-ways-to-use-play-doh-in-school-counseling/ "5 School Counseling Activities Using Play Doh") By Counselor Keri Students light up the moment Play Doh appears in any school setting, and school counseling [](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-ways-to-use-play-doh-in-school-counseling/#more-2250) [Read More](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-ways-to-use-play-doh-in-school-counseling/) ## Stock Your Prize Box You can put almost anything in the prize box. Kids love erasers, pencils, sharpeners, and bouncy balls. ## Get Organizing [](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-office-organization/) ## [10 Tips for School Counseling Office Organization](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-office-organization/ "10 Tips for School Counseling Office Organization") By Pawsitive School Counselor Whether you have an office the size of a closet, a whole classroom or even [](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-office-organization/#more-4242) [Read More](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-office-organization/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/10-school-counselor-summer-prep/) ## [10 Ways to Prepare During the Summer](https://confidentcounselors.com/10-school-counselor-summer-prep/ "10 Ways to Prepare During the Summer") By Counselor Keri Summer is finally here and we all have time to breathe and decompress from another [](https://confidentcounselors.com/10-school-counselor-summer-prep/#more-1630) [Read More](https://confidentcounselors.com/10-school-counselor-summer-prep/) #### **What’s on your Ultimate school Counseling Supply List?** Share yours below! *Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click the link and purchase the item, we will receive a small commission. With that said, we only recommend items we have found useful as school counselors and the commission helps us continue to run the site.* **Categories:** Counselor Role, Popular Posts **Tags:** supplies --- ### [Responding to Escalating Behavior with a Coordinated Team Response](https://confidentcounselors.com/de-escalation-strategies/) **Published:** April 11, 2022 **Author:** Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop **Content:** Every year there are students with challenging behaviors that disrupt, well, everything. Daily crises take over your schedule and they seem unresponsive to intervention plans. Teachers and staff are exhausted. The calls to “do something” (aka discipline) grow louder. I’m guessing if you landed on this post you are looking for more than another sticker chart or a pass straight to the office for disruptive behaviors. There are a couple essentials you should and may already have in place: - comprehensive classroom observations - a data-informed behavior plan - communication plan with parents and teachers Even with those three fundamental pieces, one piece is often missing – **all the adults responding consistently and responsively**. What if everyone handled the student’s challenging behavior the same? Not just when the meltdown is happening but at each stage of escalation. When all the adults are on the same page and responding consistently, you have a chance of preventing disruptive behavior. That’s where a Behavior Response Plan comes in. This is a plan that breaks down how staff should respond to student behavior at each stage of escalation. What works at the beginning will not work when the student is at the peak of a meltdown. In this post, we are going to go **where and how to intervene** at each stage of escalation. Then, we will talk about how to develop a **team-based response plan** that will bring consistency and responsiveness to your behavior interventions. ## **Behavior Escalation in 7 Stages** There are seven stages to escalating behavior. Calm – Trigger – Agitation – Acceleration – Peak – Deescalation – Recovery ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Behavior-Escalation-Cycle.001.jpeg "Behavior Escalation Cycle.001") ### 1 – Calm During this stage, **everything is going as expected**. The student is cooperative and engaged. They are following directions, completing work, and interacting positively. It’s going to be a good day! #### Calm Strategies Keep this calm phase going by using: - Clear expectations - Warm interactions - Moderately challenging work - Regular teacher attention - Choice when possible ### 2 – Trigger Well that perfect calm stage couldn’t last forever. **Something has happened to upset the student**. The triggers can be difficult to catch and are individual to each student. What upsets one person, won’t both another. The more you analyze what triggers a student and what their early dysregulation looks like, the quicker you will be able to address what occurred. #### Some possible triggers to consider - Negative interaction with an adult or peer - Change in the schedule or activity - Mistakes or failure on a task - Confusion about an assignment - Low preference activities - Being told no - Interactions with a person they don’t like - Unwanted attention from peers or adults - Classroom environment – lighting, noise, seating - Medication changes - Physical needs – tired, thirsty, hungry, sick - Worries about performance - Events from home – arguments, family changes, illness Insert Post List ### 3 – Agitation Your Goal – Intervene Early **The escalation begins**. In this phase, the student is often unfocused and disengaged. They may be intermittently participating, fidgeting, or staring off. The signs for your student will be unique to them. What behaviors are they exhibiting after a trigger occurs? This is the optimal place to intervene. Your support will be the most efficient and effective here. #### STRATEGIES - Address and correct what triggered things, if possible. - Use distraction. Tell a story, ask them about something they like to talk about. Anything to take their mind and feelings off what is bothering them. - Use humor. Stay away from sarcasm, it can be difficult for students to interpret when they are agitated. - Casually removing the student from the situation (e.g., help take something to the office, run a message to another teacher). - Redirect to an easy or preferred task - Reengage with behavior plan. This might be reminding them about their goals or asking them how they are doing so far today. - Provide simple choices. Be careful here. Depending on how long the student has been agitated, strategies that would have worked initially may escalate the situation. For example, a joke may break through or it may make the student angry. ### 4 – Acceleration Your Goal – Prevent Further Escalation **The student is focused at this stage but in all the wrong ways**. They may be argumentative or refusing to work. They may be interfering with instruction, calling out, ripping papers, arguing with peers, or producing no work or poor quality work. Unfortunately, this might be when the adults in the room realize there is a problem. Even more unfortunate, they might respond with consequences or anger. Look at that, a power struggle is born. There are ways to bring a student back down to the calm phase. Which strategies you use will depend on the classroom routines and the behaviors the student is showing. Does the room have a **calm down corner**? Students may be directed to take some time or use a calming strategy. These strategies should be familiar to a student before this moment. At this stage, you are looking for any signs of re-engagement. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Praise any moves in the right direction. The biggest pushback you will get is that not responding with consequences seems inconsistent. Isn’t inconsistency the hallmark of poor management? This is a misunderstanding. **The key here is to consistently use strategies that are responsive to where the student is at**. Blanket responses that you use no matter how the students is behaving is guaranteed to make things worse. This absolutely does not mean that there is not a discussion or consequence at some point. Just not in the middle of the acceleration phase and in front of an audience. #### STRATEGIES - Adults remain calm - Provide the student with simple choices. - Redirect them to a calm, safe spot. - Focus on leading them through simple calming strategies (e.g., deep breaths) - If possible, (non-physically) remove the student from the situation - Empathize with the student (e.g., I understand that you are upset) - Keep language simple and upbeat. ### 5 – Peak Your goal – Keep everyone safe Well, things have gotten to a **crisis point**. During this phase, constantly be aware that the student is in flight or fight mode. Their ability to process and make good decisions is limited. They are out of control and they need help to handle things. Some schools will have explicit plans for how to handle aggressive or destructive behavior in the classroom. It is definitely worth having a constructive conversation with administration about how to handle this stage. Plans that call for student removal for an extended period of time (in-school suspension) can be problematic as they may reinforce behaviors if the student is looking to escape a situation. #### Peak Escalation Strategies - Isolate the student however possible, either removing them or removing the class. - When talking to the student, don’t process anything. Be a broken record, focusing on getting them calm. - If you can get them to belly breathe, have them focus on putting their hand on their stomach to make sure they are breathing slow. - Use 1-3 simple steps shown on your fingers. (1, we calm down. 2, we talk about it, …). - Keep yourself safe. Watch your proximity and have another staff member with you. Please make sure someone in your building has de-escalation and restraint training. Be up-to-date on your state’s guidelines regarding student aggression and staff response. ### 6 – Deescalation Your Goal – Get Them Back to Calm During this time, students are past peak escalation. They will be more compliant and you can use that to keep them moving back to calm. #### Deescalation Strategies Have a student move to a more isolated spot and provide them with an easy to complete task, like organizing some papers. This gains compliance, gives them something to focus on, and provides some breathing room. This task should be short and simple. Reminding students of their calming strategies can also be helpful. ### 7 – Recovery Your Goal – Address what happened This is when you address behaviors that violated expectations. The student is calm and is expecting their behavior to be addressed #### Recovery Strategies - Approach the student by seeking to gain a clearer understanding of what led to the escalation. - Take ownership for your role in the escalation (e.g. what signs you missed, how you initially responded). - Engage them in how to repair the situation. - Ensure parents are aware of what happened and the resolution. I’m sure you could picture a student you have going up and down this meltdown mountain. Maybe you considered what their triggers were and possible alternative responses at each stage. ## Team-Based Response Plan A Team Response Plan considers each stage of escalation and the best way to respond in each stage. ## Behavior Response Plan Based on the 7 stages of behavior escalation. ###### Download It is most effective if the team meets together to discuss possible triggers, what is happening during each stage, and the most effective strategies each person has found. It is important that no staff member feel like they are to blame. If a student is more likely to escalate with them, then it is just a problem to be solved. - Identify the student’s triggers. What happens that bothers or upsets the student? - Go through each stage and describe how the student behaves. How would someone else know the student is in this stage? - At each stage, identify strategies that will help the student remain calm or return to feeling calm. Different strategies will work at different points. - Specify the language to use, what to do, where to go, and who should be involved. - Discuss the expected response to aggressive and destructive beahvior with your administration. - Create a repair plan with the student. They should attempt to fix things after a significant behavior escalation. [![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/LM-E-Behavior-Response-Plan_Page_07-scaled.jpg "LM E | Behavior Response Plan_Page_07")](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/LM-E-Behavior-Response-Plan.pdf) ## Other Essential Components ### Comprehensive Observations When a student is showing disruptive or destructive behavior, it is essential to start to document. Observations and data collection will inform your interventions. ### Skill Assessment Another great addition to the Team Behavior Response Plan is a short document identifying what skills the student is lacking and where direct instruction should focus. If a student becomes upset about a peer not working with them, then they may need to work on emotional awareness and coping skills to manage that feeling. ### Individual Behavior Plan Importantly, the Team Behavior Response Plan is not a substitute for a student’s individual behavior intervention plan. It is in addition. Use a behavior plan during the calm phase and the agitation phase. It has no real place when a student is escalating or at peak escalation. It also can reignite a student if they are reminded of lost privileges during the de-escalation phase. ![Individual Behavior Charts and Plans](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Behavior-Plans-Cover.jpg "Individual Behavior Charts and Plans") ### Individual Behavior charts & Plans ### Communication Plan It is essential that regular communication about incidents (and progress) happens between teachers and with parents. I like to include a home- school log as part of any behavior plan and response plan. #### **how do you Make sure you are consistent across adults when handling challenging behavior?** Share your tips below! **Categories:** Behavior, Classroom Management, Collaboration **Tags:** behavior intervention --- ### [This is made for you.](https://confidentcounselors.com/first-blog-post/) **Published:** May 20, 2016 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Excerpt:** Confident Counselors Connection has come on the scene. It is a monthly round up of resources, products, best practices, articles, comic relief, blog posts, giveaways, and ideas in action.  **Content:** You know that so often in our schools, we are all alone in our jobs without a collaborative professional community. PD sessions are often not designed for us, the weekly email from the principal is meant for the teachers, and we are spending hours trying to figure out how to do our jobs better. Once upon a time, there were some school counselors, school psychologists, social workers, and other awesome school superheroes spending a lot of time by themselves making resources, giving advice to colleagues, consulting with school staff, and scouring the internet for the latest and greatest things to help our schools and students. Through the magic of the internet, we found ourselves reaching past our schools, and sharing this knowledge in our own online stores, on Facebook groups, and in Twitter chats. Soon we were answering questions, asking questions, and sharing with people all over the globe. One of us has even published a book (two books, actually)! We will get to our individual accolades as we get to know each other. Bragging isn’t something school counselors do. So hit subscribe. Be Confident. **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** confident counselors --- ### [10 Back to School Tips for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/back-to-school-tips/) **Published:** August 16, 2016 **Author:** Confident Counselors, The Helpful Counselor and Counselor Up and 14 more **Content:** Once we have forgotten how great sleeping in feels, we believe this is the best time of year. The slate is wiped clean. We get to start another year, more experienced and more confident. So, hold your head high, bring your shoulders back, and bookmark these 10 back to school tips for school counselors. 1. Meet with your administration and co-counselors to fill out and sign ASCA’s annual agreement. School Counselor Stephanie 2. Conduct a needs assessment. Your entire program should be built off the needs of your students, teachers, and parents. The Helpful Counselor 3. Make a plan for the year and write it down— [**Rebecca, Counselor Up**](http://www.counselorup.com) 4. Get in the habit of keeping to a schedule. Time can slip away, so be sure to budget your time wisely! Prioritize! — **[Counselor Traci R. Brown](http://www.tracirbrown.com/)** 5. Print, laminate, and organize all materials you think you will need during the first semester. When things get hectic, you’ll feel prepared knowing that those materials are ready to go! — **[Keri, Counselor Keri](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri)** 6. As much as I hate spending a summer day (or two) at school prepping, I always feel better starting the year with all of my new supplies & office in order. Permission slips and bulletin boards for new students groups are done before the kids start. Being organized allows me to be available for student issues those first few days — [**Gretchen, Speckled Moose Counseling**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Speckled-Moose-Counseling) 7. Create caseload list and “frequent fliers”. Organize it by grade/class and issue (e.g., emotional regulation, anxiety, study skills, social skills). This is your jumping off point for creating your first round of counseling groups — [**Laurie Mendoza,** **School Counseling Files**](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com) 8. I have craft activities that go along with lessons, but it is a ton of prep work. I have found kids LOVE to help, especially 6th grade girls! Kids sign up to be on the The Helper Squad. They are eager to help and it makes them feel good doing a service for others. Some of my favorite times are being with these kids helping me prepare something fun to add to my lesson — [**Jodi, The School Counselor Is In**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-School-Counselor-Is-In) 9. One way to build positive relationships is to look at the school calendar monthly and look for big events coming up. Grade level programs are quite stressful for teachers. So, the day of the program, writing a quick good luck note or giving a small treat goes a long way in showing support to others — [**Jodi, The School Counselor Is In**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-School-Counselor-Is-In) 10. Build a relationship with new staff in your building. Stop by classrooms. Often new teachers don’t know anybody and will be surprised that you thought to make a visit — [**Little Miss Counselor**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor) 11. Work on building a positive relationship with school staff right away! This will make your year much easier in the long run — **[Chelsey, CounselorChelsey]()** 12. Meet with your administrator to clarify expectations and program goals — [**Heather, The Helpful Counselor**](http://www.thehelpfulcounselor.com) 13. Meet with administrators/team leaders prior to school to discuss your yearly action plan, goals, and mission statement. They’ll come to you with mission-based issues and seek your guidance when they know what you’re working toward!— [**Keri, Counselor Keri**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri) 14. Be ready with a warm smile and a greeting for every child, letting them know you are happy they are here. I give hugs too! — [**Susan, Counseling Wisdom**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counseling-Wisdom) 15. Spend time in Kindergarten the first two weeks. Some TLC will support smoother transitions for teachers, students, and parents — [**Laura, Social Emotional Workshop**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop) 16. The first week of school is when a positive tone is set in the school. Be in the hallways and at car duty with a big smile and helpful attitude. You are kind of like the host of a party, making sure that everyone is happy and getting the help they need during the chaos of a new school year. Modeling a calm and caring attitude will go a long way — **[Brandy Thompson, The Counseling Teacher](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson)** 17. Set up a process for how you will communicate with parents. How will you educate them about your role, let them know how they can reach you, and how you will get the word out. This year, I plan to do a email newsletter each trimester, so will use the school’s first parent letter to provide parents with a link to sign-up via a Google Survey — [**Laurie Mendoza, School Counseling Files**](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com) 18. Parent anxiety is contagious! Be prepared for loads of questions, reminders of previous system barriers, and requests for immediate solutions. Take a step back before you try and fix their concerns on the spot. Remind yourself this is not an emergency. Have your contact information and planner available to schedule a brief check in where you can later address their worries in a calm and confident manner. Keep in mind, the sooner you address a parent’s worries by simply acknowledging and validating them, the easier the school year will be for everyone — [**Robyn, Mental Fills**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mental-Fills) 19. Write a brief personal note to the families of new students after having students in a New Kids group. I write 1-2 sentences on my group conclusion letter, & this small effort builds relationships with new families — [**Gretchen, Speckled Moose Counseling**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Speckled-Moose-Counseling) 20. Visit the cafeteria during lunch times-so much can be observed and you are visible to the students — [**Carla, The DIY Counselor**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor) 21. Establish a self care routine and stick to it — [**Yanique Chambers, Kiddie Matters**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Yanique-Chambers) 22. Practice self-care. The first week of school is exhausting. Be sure to balance work and home life — [**Brandy Thompson, The Counseling Teacher**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson) 23. Say some form of the serenity prayer. Stay positive, change the things you can, accept the things you cannot, and try to know the difference — [**School Counselor Stephanie**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counselor-Stephanie?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Store%20link) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Counselor Role **Tags:** back to school, CC tips, College Counselor Traci, Counseling Wisdom, Counselor Chelsey, Counselor Keri, Counselor Up, Kiddie Matters, Little Miss Counselor, Mental Fills, School Counseling Files, School Counselor Stephanie, Social Emotional Workshop, Speckled Moose Counseling, The Counseling Teacher Brandy, The DIY Counselor, The Helpful Counselor, The School Counselor Is In --- ### [16 Tips for Organizing and Running Small Group Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/small-group-counseling-organize-and-run-successful-groups/) **Published:** September 15, 2016 **Author:** Counselor Up, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor and EduKate & Inspire and 13 more **Content:** Small group counseling can be a useful and effective intervention in a school counselor’s repertoire. But, woah can they be challenging to organize and run at first. With over 100 years of practice between all of us, we figured some of our tested tips would be mighty handy as you are beginning or considering your groups. Please contribute some of your tips in the comments below so we all walk more confidently into that room of five defiant third grade boys needing some support with impulse control. ## Organizing Small Group Counseling ### Group Size **Don’t be tempted to make large group sizes** in order to allow more students in a group. Think about your space, the personalities and behaviors of the students in the group and the activities planned. [**Rebecca** ‧ Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-up/) Be careful of group size, you can **easily lose effectiveness** if you try to include too many students at once. [**Ashley** ‧ Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/mrs-bell-the-crafty-counselor/) ### Picking Students **Screen potential group members** before placement. Group participants need to see how the experience will benefit them and should be willing to work to accomplish a goal. [****Carla** ‧ The DIY Counselor**](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/the-diy-counselor/) While planning your groups, be sure to think about the dynamic of your group participants. Disruptive behavior can quickly sink a group lesson and make 30 minutes seem like 30 hours. Students, who exhibit extremely disruptive behavior, can benefit greatly from small groups with 3-4 group members. **Smaller groups allow you to provide more structure and positive reinforcement**, thus making your groups more engaging and effective! [****Heather** ‧ The Helpful Counselor**](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/the-helpful-counselor/) Instead of grouping kids by class or gender, I **group them by issue** and (usually but not always) grade. Types of groups I run every trimester include: anxiety, Zones of Regulation, Social Thinking, and positive thinking/CBT. Others I’ve done have been focused on grief, mindfulness, divorce, incarcerated parents, and service learning (for kids who need to develop self-esteem and/or empathy). **Keep groups time-limited** (e.g., 8 weeks) and firmly focused on skill development, practice, and reinforcement. Communicate key strategies to teachers and adults to encourage generalization across settings. Groups can be the most efficient use of your direct service time. However, there will certainly be students for whom group counseling will be contraindicated: kids with serious trauma, those with severe attentional or behavioral issues, or those who won’t be able to understand or respect rules of confidentiality. [****Laurie** ‧ School Counseling Files**](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/edukate-inspire/) ### Get Your System Down [Use Google Docs](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/2016/07/google-docs-for-school-counselors.html) to help you plan, organize, and schedule your small group sessions. Print out a schedule of the days, times, and students in each small group and give the schedule to each student’s teacher in advance to help with organization. [****Kate** ‧ EduKate & Inspire**](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/edukate-inspire/) Create a **counseling permission form** that includes - the group title (ex, New Friends Club), - the frequency and duration of group meetings, - three options for parent to check (Yes please, No thanks, I’d like to know more), - student and parent contact info, - parent signature and date line. Use the form to group kids and initiate sessions. - put a form in every new student registration packet, - file away forms marked ‘no’, - begin groups with those marked ‘yes’, - follow up with parents who requested ‘more info’ [****Tobin** ‧ Counselor Corner**](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-corner/) **Identifyclear, measurable session objectives** and keep measurement forms handy during/after session for quick assessment. Keep group materials organized by printing all session materials before starting your group. I like to store all materials for each session in separate page protectors inside a binder to maintain organization! [****Keri** ‧ Counselor Keri**](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-keri/) ## Running Small Group Counseling ### Routines Establishing group rules and norms is vital to the success of a small group. Students must feel safe in order to be authentic with the group. **Include group confidentiality rules and give specific examples for clarity**. Have students help set up the norms so that they are more likely to buy into the process. Finally, model appropriate group behavior and redirect when needed. I feel like this is the most important step for a successful group outcome. [****Brandy** ‧ The Counseling Teacher Brandy**](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/the-counseling-teacher-brandy/) During the first few minutes of a session, ask if anyone wants to discuss anything on their mind or from the previous week. In school settings, this is also a good time to address any discipline or academic problems that might have occurred with a group member in the last week. Try to keep these discussions to no more than 5–10 minutes so as to not focus the entire session on them. [****Stephanie** ‧ School Counselor Stephanie**](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/school-counselor-stephanie/) I **maintain a similar structure** for all of my groups that I facilitate during lunch. I labeled a shoe holder with feelings posters, and each student places their “feelings card” in the pocket as they arrive. This allows us to give other students more time to get through the lunch line, and it gets students thinking about emotions. I follow this up with a “good news/bad news” group share, and students have the opportunity to share more about how they are feeling. It’s great practice for feelings identification and expression, and it helps develop group rapport. It’s quick and easy to do, and the consistency of the structure provides the students with a sense of security. [****Gretchen** ‧ Speckled Moose Counseling**](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/school-counselor-stephanie/) I used a predictable schedule for groups that helped students know what to expect and helped me with planning. We started with a fun greeting, a five minute mini lesson, guided practice of target skills, and an activity/game to practice the skill more independently. Last, I’d have a quick exit ticket or whip around. I also give the kids roles, like time keeper, to keep us all focused. [****Laura** ‧ Social Emotional Workshop**](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/school-counselor-stephanie/) ### Group Development *Always leave some extra time at the end of your group session! You do not want students to bond and disclose, then have to rush back to class! This allows students to talk to you individually, gather themselves, and/or for YOU to reboot for your next session! I give myself at least 5 -10 minutes so I can write down my session notes as well. This bit of time is everything!* ****Traci** ‧ College Counselor Traci** In the early group stages, avoid unnecessary power struggles by being mindful that anxiety is masked with resistance, goofiness, and defiance. Regardless of the group topic, to ensure trust is built and maintained, consistently provide feelings check ins, validate, acknowledge the group process, and address minor interpersonal conflicts on the spot. Empower the students to problem solve as a group. A sign you are leading a group successfully is when the students are using each other for support and feedback [****Robyn** ‧ Mental Fills**](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/mental-fills/) Spend the first couple sessions doing activities that help build trust among group members. Trust is key. The more group members trust one another, the more they will open up and share. [****Leah** ‧ School Counseling Is Magial**](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/mental-fills/) #### How do you organize and run Small groups? **Share your tips below!** **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Group Counseling **Tags:** CC tips, College Counselor Traci, Counselor Chelsey, Counselor Corner, Counselor Keri, Counselor Up, EduKate & Inspire, group counseling, Mental Fills, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, School Counseling Files, School Counseling Is Magical, School Counselor Stephanie, Social Emotional Workshop, Speckled Moose Counseling, The Counseling Teacher Brandy, The DIY Counselor, The Helpful Counselor --- ### [Responding to Bullying: Tips and Resources for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/responding-to-bullying-school-counselors/) **Published:** October 17, 2016 **Author:** Counselor Up, The Counseling Teacher Brandy and Counseling Wisdom and 4 more **Content:** ![blog-responding-to-bullying](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Blog-Responding-to-Bullying.png)Every day school counselors are dealing with potential bullying incidents, as well as behaviors that are misidentified as bullying. Check out how these Confident Counselors address bullying and our favorite resources. > [![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)](http://www.counselorup.com)“When a student is referred for bullying behavior, work with them to make a solution-focused goal and then check in with them weekly to see how they are doing with their goal. Help them build their skills so they don’t rely on bullying to get what they need.” **– Rebecca at [Counselor Up](http://www.counselorup.com)** - [Conflict Escalator Activity Pages](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Conflict-Escalator-Activity-Pages-1235157) from **School Counseling Files** > [![The Counseling Teacher](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/the-counseling-teacher.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson)“The word bullying is so overused and abused. Often, the behavior can be classified as just normal conflict with two different sides to the story. With girls, it can be especially tricky. I run a “Frenemy” small group for girls who are struggling with conflict. I use a lesson called “Friend or Frenemy” which helps girls identify toxic relationships and how to heal the friendship or end it. Sometimes the girls realize that they too are exhibiting toxic qualities. They learn how to BE a good friend and how to recognize and keep healthy friendships.” **– [The Counseling Teacher](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson)** - [Girl’s Friendship & Bullying Labels: Use with JENGA® for girl’s groups ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Girls-Friendship-Bullying-Labels-Use-with-JENGA-for-girls-groups-1576565)from **Mental Fills** - [What Should You Say When Your Daughter Tells You Someone Is Being Mean to Her?](http://www.readbrightly.com/say-daughter-tells-someone-mean/) By Rosalind Wiseman (author of Queen Bees and Wannabes) - [Mean Girls: What Teachers Should and Can Do to Stop Them](http://www.createdreamexplore.com/2016/06/mean-girls-what-teachers-can-and-should.html) from Create, Dream, Explore - [The Ophelia Project ](http://www.opheliaproject.org/ra.html) > [![golden](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/golden-1-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.comStore/Counseling-Wisdom)“When students are in 3rd-5th grade I encourage students to use “I” messages to handle their conflicts with other students. We learn that it is not always comfortable using I messages and sometimes they don’t work, but it is an excellent way to communicate your feelings without making the other person defensive. It is another skill we practice, practice, practice, individually, and in classroom lessons. One of the learning outcomes for elementary school counseling is that students go to middle school and understand and have the ability to use I messages to resolve conflicts.” – [**Counseling Wisdom/Susan Wisdom**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.comStore/Counseling-Wisdom) - [The Golden Rules: Solving Conflicts Using I Messages](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Golden-Rule-Solving-Conflicts-Using-I-Messages-1246327) - [Scooping Up I Messages](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Scooping-Up-I-Messages-1156708) > [![Bilingual Learner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Bilingual-Learner-Icon-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Bilingual-Learner)“It is crucial for the counselor to do a followup check-in with any student who reports a bullying/bothering incident to them. It is best to do the check-in a few days after the incident has been resolved. This check-in ensures that the incident is actually resolved and stays that way.” – **Stephanie from [Bilingual Learner](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Bilingual-Learner)** - [Talking about Bullying: Bullying Sentence Completion Activity](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bullying-Sentence-Completion-Activity-2258980) from **Kiddie Matters** - [Oprah: Elijah Opens up to a Therapist about Being Bullied ](http://www.oprah.com/own-flexandshanice/elijah-opens-up-to-a-therapist-after-being-bullied) > [![Little Miss Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/13814598_984575921664069_217302344_n-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor)“When I speak to a student who has intentionally hurt someone, I have them make a card for that person. I watch the student deliver it and ask how he/she felt making someone feel good instead of being hurtful.” – [**Little Miss Counselor**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor) - [Angry Words, Kind Words](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Angry-Words-Kind-Words-2400182) from **School Counseling Files** > ![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-150x150.png)“Use the “THINK” acronym to help with the prevention of verbal bullying and conflicts. Before you speak, “THINK” is it True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, and Kind. – **Kate from [EduKate & Inspire](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire)** - [Education World – Bullying Intervention Strategies That Work](http://www.educationworld.com/a_issues/issues/issues103.shtml) - [Bullying and Relational Drama Activities: Stop Stirring the Pot in Friendships](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bully-and-Relational-DRAMA-Activities-Stop-Stirring-The-Pot-in-Friendships-1692152) from **Mental Fills** > [![Social Emotional Workshop on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/logo-e1467020698143.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop)“Have a group or intervention ready to go and make sure you are following evidence based practices. Research has shown that peer mediation for bullying is not effective and can be detrimental to the student who has been bullied. Ross Greene presented a few years back about bullies, urging practitioners to approach these students as if they are also missing essential social and emotional skills that would benefit from intervention. I always think of students who have bullied others as needing help too.” – **Laura, [Social Emotional Workshop](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop)** - [B is for Bullies (and the Bullied) ](http://www.livesinthebalance.org/b-bullies-and-bullied)from Ross Greene ## **The Facts** - [Bullying Presentation with Stats](https://www.haikudeck.com/bullying-education-presentation-gJXyOvLNiR#slide0) from **Carol Miller, The Middle School Counselor** - [What Kids Need to Know about Bullying](http://www.prevnet.ca/bullying/kids) from PrevNet in Canada[ ](http://www.prevnet.ca/bullying/kids)The [Facts about Bullying](https://www.understood.org/en/friends-feelings/common-challenges/bullying/the-facts-on-bullying?utm_campaign=understoodorg&utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest) from Understood.org - [Kids Health – Bullying](http://kidshealth.org/en/teens/bullies.html) - From Child Trends: [Bullying Video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTQO-CsJm0s) Dr. Deborah Temkin discussing the current state of bullying prevention ![pin-responding-to-bullying-tips](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Pin-Responding-to-Bullying-Tips-200x300.png) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Your Program **Tags:** bullying, CC tips, Counseling Wisdom, Counselor Up, EduKate & Inspire, Little Miss Counselor, School Counselor Stephanie, Social Emotional Workshop, The Counseling Teacher Brandy --- ### [Bully Nation](https://confidentcounselors.com/bully-nation/) **Published:** October 17, 2016 **Author:** Laurie P Mendoza **Content:** ## The B-Word ###### *by Laurie P. Mendoza, MA, CAGS* I’d like to recommend a book that has changed the way I look at the issue of bullying and aggression at my school. Turn on the news, listen to discussions among parents and school staff, or think of how often kids say to you, “He’s bullying me!” It seems that we’re in the middle of a bullying epidemic, doesn’t it? It may seem that way, but we’re not. [![bully-nation](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Bully-Nation-200x300.jpg)](http://amzn.to/2e0OIwo)Bully Nation by Susan Eva Porter In her book [*Bully Nation*](http://amzn.to/2e0OIwo), Susan Eva Porter totally dismantles the widely-accepted notion that kids are under siege from bullies 24/7. While she provides a number of good reasons why we have that impression, one is so obvious that I can’t believe it never occurred to me: the definition of bullying has expanded hugely in the last ten years or so. Bullying used to be defined as some form of coercion—forcing someone, usually smaller, to do something they didn’t want to do—often via physical force. It was pretty clear, and most people could agree if something constituted bullying or not. But in the last decade behaviors that used to be considered just plain mean or even routine kid stuff are now being called bullying. What was fairly black-and-white is now much grayer. Many of the newly classified “bullying behaviors” are subtle and subject to interpretation. The “subject to interpretation” part is important to note because as the definition of bullying has expanded and become more amorphous, anti-bully language, school policies, and state laws have moved in the opposite direction, growing more rigid and unequivocal. In almost any situation at school where there is a conflict between children, anti-bullying procedures kick in (in some states, by law). These policies force us to spend huge amounts of time and energy investigating every incident, require us to place black-and-white labels on children, and take away our ability to use our professional judgment in dealing with individual situations. Bully language is overly simplistic and emotionally laden. Its labels—*bully, victim, bystander*—place children in predetermined roles that are each harmful in their own way. Once the roles have been assigned it is nearly impossible for adults to look at all sides of the story, to have compassion for the child who is labeled as the bully, or to focus on solutions instead of punishment. Bully language also makes it almost impossible for children to feel hopeful or empowered. The anti-bullying programs and procedures we’re being required to implement give kids a whole lot of messages we shouldn’t be comfortable with. ##### For “victims” - Anything anyone does that causes me any type of emotional discomfort or pain is bullying, and it can damage me for life - I have no control over how I feel; I am completely at the mercy of others and how they treat me - I am incapable of solving my own problems - If I’m a “victim,” I don’t have to examine or take responsibility for my own actions ##### For “bullies” - If I hurt someone’s feelings—even if that wasn’t my intention—then I am a bully - I can never make a social mistake - Relationships can’t be fixed once there’s a problem - Being a “bully” means I’m a bad kid and I can never change ##### And even for “bystanders” - It is my responsibility to stand up for others even if I don’t understand what’s going on - If I don’t intervene, then I am just as guilty as the bully The problem with these messages is obvious: they are the opposite of the messages we try to impart to our students every day—that they are worthwhile individuals who are in the process of learning how to be caring, capable, and resilient problem-solvers. Porter reminds us repeatedly that we are talking about *children*. During their school careers, kids have to learn many complex social-emotional skills: how to manage their feelings, control their impulses, read social cues, develop empathy, and tolerate frustration, to name a few. Expecting children to do these things—perfectly, at all times, and regardless of whether or not they are developmentally able to (as Zero Tolerance policies dictate)—is setting them up to fail in a spectacular fashion. I believe most kids’ difficulties are the result of skill-based deficits or developmental delays, so I try to look at each situation from the child’s perspective while considering history and context. Once we label a child a bully and believe he or she is deliberately setting out to harm peers, we lose both our compassion for that child and our ability to help. Once a child is labeled a bully, people stop thinking about how to teach skills and turn to thinking of how to punish. In my experience, I can often be seen as an apologist for the kid’s bad behavior if I even attempt to reframe the conversation. School counselors—of all people—need to be able to recognize the complexities of children’s interactions, identify the lagging skills (of all parties!) that create problems, and help come up with positive solutions that will teach those skills. And we need to do it with compassion. I highly recommend this book. *A longer version of this post originally on Laurie’s website, School Counseling Files. To read the original, go to .* [![School Counseling Files](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/School-Counseling-Files.jpg)](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com/blog/the-b-word.) **Categories:** Your Office, Your Program **Tags:** book recommendations, bullying --- ### [School Wide Bullying Prevention and School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-wide-bullying-prevention-school-counselors/) **Published:** October 17, 2016 **Author:** EduKate & Inspire, Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop and Little Miss Counselor and 6 more **Content:** ![School Counselors and School Wide Bullying Prevention](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Blog-Schoolwide-bullying.png) School counselors serve as experts on school-wide approaches to prevent bullying and encourage a positive school climate. Check out how some Confident Counselors encourage anti-bullying efforts and our favorite resources to carry over their tips. (Pssst. Don’t forget [Unity Day on 10/19](http://www.pacer.org/bullying/nbpm/unity-day.asp?utm_content=buffer8d975&utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest.com&utm_campaign=buffer) and [Mix it Up Day on 10/25](http://www.tolerance.org/blog/how-will-your-school-mix-it-0)) > [![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire)“Teach bullying awareness lessons in all classrooms at the beginning of the school year to provide a common foundation for students. If possible, co-teach the lesson with your school principal or dean of students. This helps students see how counselors work together with administrators to assist students in solving problems. At the end of the lesson, send a brief letter home to parents that explains the definition of bullying and provides suggestions for conflict resolution.” –**[ Kate from EduKate and Inspire](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire)** - **Bullying Awareness Activity for Students: [The Power Shuffle](http://waldwickcounselor.blogspot.com.es/2012/11/the-power-shuffle.html).** > [![Social Emotional Workshop on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/logo-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop)“Work with your school to address school climate, making bullying prevention efforts part of a larger plan. Consider adopting an evidence based program, such as [**Second Step**](http://olweus.sites.clemson.edu/), [**Olewus Bullying Prevention Program**](http://www.violencepreventionworks.org/), or [**Open Circle**](http://www.open-circle.org/). These programs allow bullying to be addressed in a consistent way across staff and focus on differentiating it from other negative social behaviors. One of the most powerful things we adopted in my schools has been consistent language to address bullying. We consistently define bullying, teasing, joking, and mean behavior. Students know it when they see it. Positively, students have gravitated to positive behaviors labeled consistently, such as [upstander](http://www.bullybust.org/upstander).” **– [Laura, Social Emotional Workshop](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop)** > ![Little Miss Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/13814598_984575921664069_217302344_n-150x150.jpg)“Expand student’s vocabulary beyond the word bullying. In fact, don’t use the word hardly at all. Focus on concepts such as conflict, the tattling rules, and being a problem solver.” – [**Little Miss Counselor**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor) - [Don’t Say Bully: SMARTboard Understanding Power Differences](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Dont-Say-Bully-SMARTboard-Understanding-Power-Differences-1133729) from LittleMissCounselor - [RIP: Distinguishing between Peer Conflict and Bullying](http://web.extension.illinois.edu/hkmw/eb380/entry_10672) from the University of Illinois - [Is it Rude, is it Mean, or is it Bullying?](http://exploringschoolcounseling.blogspot.my/2016/02/is-it-rude-is-it-mean-or-is-it-bullying.html?m=1) from Exploring School Counseling > [![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)](http://www.counselorup.com)“Teach your entire school what bullying is. Bullying is a big deal and we do a disservice if we lump other, more developmentally appropriate misbehavior with bullying. I teach my students the difference between bullying, interpersonal conflict, and a mean moment. By agreeing on one definition of bullying, we can work as a school on how to handle each type of incident with the appropriate level of response.” – **Rebecca at [Counselor Up](http://www.counselorup.com)** - **[Celebrate Bullying Prevention](http://www.counselorup.com/blog/celebrate-bullying-prevention) from **Counselor Up**** - [Mean vs Rude vs Bullying: Defining the Differences ](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/signe-whitson/bullying_b_2188819.html?) by Signe Whitson > [![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor)“Make sure to teach students the difference between being mean/teasing and true bullying. Many students throw around the word bullying without realizing how severe bullying really is. Challenge them to understand the differences.” – [**Mrs. Bell, The Crafty Counselor**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor) - [What is Bullying? Teaching Students the Difference between Bullying and Teasing](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/What-is-Bullying-Teaching-Students-the-Difference-Between-Bullying-and-Teasing-2143052) from Mrs. Bell, The Crafty Counselor > [![Bilingual Learner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Bilingual-Learner-Icon-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Bilingual-Learner)“To help prevent bullying, I recommend that counselors are part of a schoolwide effort to have all parents/students sign an anti-bully pledge.” – **[Stephanie from Bilingual Learner](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Bilingual-Learner)** - **[Take a Stand Against Bullying](http://bullyingepidemic.com/take-a-stand-against-bullying/) from Bullying Epidemic** > ![Mental Fills on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/mental-fills.jpg)“Because students are afraid to report bullying, have a centrally located locked box for anonymous reports. To help minimize student’s fears of retaliation from witnesses for using the box, include a neutral reporting form that both identifies students with bully behaviors and recognizes students with kind behaviors.” – [**Mental Fills**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mental-Fills) - [Bully Box Report.](http://www.bullyboxreport.com) A free app for students to report bullying - [Bullying Report Form](http://savvyschoolcounselor.com/savvy-guest-blogger-student-bullying-report-form/) from **Life on the Fly School Counselor** > ![The Counseling Teacher](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/the-counseling-teacher.jpg)“It’s important for students to have multiple ways to report bullying. At our school, we have a lock box for students to leave notes for us. Only the counselors have keys to the box. They have the choice to remain anonymous. Our district also uses the “Text-a-Tip” hotline for students to report bullying via text message. We also encourage students to tell at least one adult such as a parent or trusted adult. Each student is unique and may be more comfortable reporting one way versus the other.” **– [The Counseling Teacher](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson)** - [Bullying or Conflict Presentation](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bullying-or-Conflict-Presentation-2738978) from The Counseling Teacher > ![golden](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/golden-1-150x150.png)“I have successfully used [Stand-Up Against Bullies](http://amzn.to/2dw1tL8) developed by Rosanne Sheritz Satori. A series of 8 lessons helps students develop skills to stand up to bullies. I do not do all the lessons in each grade level, but start with Kindergarten teaching the friendship lesson, and how walk away and avoid the bully and followed by teaching the additional skills in 1st and 2nd grade. The curriculum uses puppets and has a “Bug School” theme with a beetle used as the bully (Big Bad Beetle). My students find the lessons very engaging. By the end of 4th grade when they leave our building my students know and can practice anti-bullying skills and understand what may motivate another student to be a bully. Plus the students still talk about their experiences at “bug school”. There a lots of great resources to teach anti-bullying strategies but this one has been a great and engaging resource at our school. For more information you can always contact me ” – **Counseling Wisdom/Susan Wisdom** ##### **Anti-Bullying Initiatives and Programs** - [Pacer Kids Against Bullying](http://www.pacerkidsagainstbullying.org/kab/) - [National School Climate Center](http://schoolclimate.org/) - [Stopbullying.gov](https://www.stopbullying.gov/) - [Prevent Bullying from the Education Development Center](http://preventingbullying.promoteprevent.org/) ##### **Videos to Use with Students** - [Not in Our School Bullying Prevention Online Film Festival](https://www.niot.org/blog/nios-bullying-prevention-online-film-festival) - [Be the Upstander](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eeqQCyQOCPg&feature=share) - [5 Minute Film Festival](http://www.edutopia.org/blog/film-festival-bullying-prevention-upstanders): Turning Bystanders into Upstanders against Bullying - [Anti-Bullying Video](http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/329735) from children in Australia who have experienced bullying. - Anti Bullying Awareness video. [It’s up to you! ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UAwqkIzKK08) - [Sesame Street and Mila Kunis](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTXzYX0rrPE) on Inclusion - [Bullies to Buddies Video Library ](http://bullies2buddies.com/resources/video-clips/) - [That’s So Gay with Wanda Sykes](https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=share&v=sWS0GVOQPs0) - [Ways to Stop Bullying](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ynTuA_tlZDE) - [4 Ways to Deal with a Bully](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFAUwxvD3J8&feature=youtu.be) ![School Wide Bullying Prevention](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Pin-School-Wide-Bullying-Prevention-200x300.png) **Categories:** Collaboration, Counselor Chats, Your Program **Tags:** bullying, CC tips, Counseling Wisdom, Counselor Up, EduKate & Inspire, Little Miss Counselor, Mental Fills, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, School Counselor Stephanie, Social Emotional Workshop, The Counseling Teacher Brandy --- ### [Preventing Bullying: Tips for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/preventing-bullying-school-counselors/) **Published:** October 17, 2016 **Author:** Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, EduKate & Inspire and Mental Fills and 5 more **Content:** #### **![blog-preventing-bullying-tips](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Blog-Preventing-Bullying-Tips.png)** School counselors work each day to help students develop the social skills to not bully, to help when they see bullying, and feel confident in dealing with a bully themselves. Here are tips and resources from your favorite Confident Counselors. > [![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor)“I like to teach bully prevention to all classes. Instead of focusing on the word bullying too heavily, I like to focus on how we can be nice to one another and how being unfriendly makes others feel.” **– [Mrs. Bell, The Crafty Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor)** - [Friendly & Respectful, or Unfriendly & Disrespectful](http://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.my/2016/03/friendly-respectful-or-unfriendly.html) from **Mrs. Bell, The Crafty Counselor** - [The Bruised and the Beautiful Apple: A Powerful Lesson in Bullying](http://www.danoah.com/2013/11/the-bruised-and-the-beautiful-apple-a-lesson-in-bullying.html) from Single Dad Laughing > [![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire)“Kids love learning from other kids. Look for media that explains bullying and conflict resolution in kid-friendly language. My favorite kid-centered video to use in bullying prevention lessons is [this](https://youtu.be/nFAUwxvD3J8).” **– [Kate from EduKate and Inspire](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire)** - [Preventing Bullying Lesson Plans from The Ned Show](http://www.thenedshow.com/preventing-bullying-lesson-plans.html) - **[Chain of Consequences: Writing to Prevent Bullying](http://www.theowlteacher.com/2015/10/chain-of-consequences-writing-to.html) from The Owl Teacher** - [Bullying Prevention through Songs, Posters, Videos, Dance, and More](http://www.schoolcounselingbyheart.com/2013/08/19/bullying-prevention-through-free-songs-posters-videos-dance-and-more/). Pack with freebies from **School Counseling By Heart** - [Girls Group Book Club](http://www.counselorup.com/blog/flashbackfriday-the-girls-group) from **Counselor Up** and the [group video](http://www.counselorup.com/blog/relational-aggression-the-video) > [![Mental Fills on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/mental-fills.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mental-Fills)“Armor students with assertiveness skills to defend themselves against a real bully. Create and consistently rehearse a safety plan that includes trusted supports to walk and talk with, safe locations, and how they will briefly respond in a firm, matter of fact manner, before walking away.” **– [Mental Fills](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mental-Fills)** - [My Bully Safety Plan Flip Book](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/My-Bully-Safety-Plan-Flip-Book-Boy-Superheros-2776842) from Mental Fills - [Assertive Phrases for Standing Up to Bullying](http://signewhitson.com/tips-strategies/assertive-phrases-for-standing-up-to-bullying/) from Signe Whitson - [10 Bully-Proofing Strategies to Help Children with Special Needs](http://www.friendshipcircle.org/blog/2016/08/25/10-bully-proofing-strategies-help-children-special-needs/) > [![The Counseling Teacher](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/the-counseling-teacher.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson)“The best kick off for any school year should include a bully prevention and awareness lesson. We start classroom lessons on bullying the first month of school. This helps set the tone for the year. We clearly define bullying and how it differs from normal conflict. The lesson includes an interactive powerpoint and scenarios in which students determine if it is conflict or bullying. The second semester, as students get restless, we do another round of bully education lessons in the classrooms. We have also hired a company called “3 Screens” to show an empowering video to the entire student body in the gym using a movie theater size screen. It’s a powerful show with many tears from students and teachers.” **– [The Counseling Teacher](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson)** - [Friendship Quiz Show: Fun Way to Distinguish Between a Friend and a Frenemy](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Friendship-Quiz-Show-Fun-way-to-distinquish-between-a-friend-and-a-frenemy-1916314) from **The Counseling Teacher** - [No Bullying Rules Posters](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/No-Bullying-Rules-Posters-2003532) from **Speckled Moose Counseling** > [![golden](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/golden-1-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.comStore/Counseling-Wisdom)“In Kindergarten we role play and practice, practice, practice with puppets to help us learn the skills of walking away and avoiding the bully!” – [**Counseling Wisdom/Susan Wisdom**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.comStore/Counseling-Wisdom) - [Victory for Vic and Vicki: Activities to Learn to Handle Bullying](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Victory-for-Vic-Vicki-Learn-to-Handle-Bullying-Activities-1941489) from **Counseling Wisdom** - [Stand Up to a Bully](https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=plcp&context=C3d302b0UDOEgsToPDskJb82CEwgJjlWqEgnJiutvW&v=YN21Xz9v17Y), Video from Sesame Street > [![Bilingual Learner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Bilingual-Learner-Icon-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Bilingual-Learner)“All counseling groups should have an underlying theme of anti-bullying, with at least one session specifically devoted to anti-bullying strategies. For example, in my Goals Make the Man group, we have a session on masculine stereotypes and how bullies use these stereotypes to instigate fights and conflict.” **– [Stephanie from Bilingual Learner](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Bilingual-Learner)** - [Girl World: Group Counseling Sessions Guide with Activities](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Girl-World-Group-Counseling-Sessions-Guide-with-Activities-1668581) from **Bilingual Learner** - [10 Scenarios to Get Kids Talking about Bullying](https://freespiritpublishingblog.com/2015/11/03/10-scenarios-to-get-kids-talking-about-bullying/) from Free Spirit Publishing - [The Bully, The Bullied and Beyond](http://amzn.to/2ddFMyf) > [![Little Miss Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/13814598_984575921664069_217302344_n-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor)“For verbal insults I teach kids that when someone says something mean it doesn’t have to hurt your feelings. You can choose to only listen to the kind things from the people who care about you.” **– [Little Miss Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor)** - [Peer Pressure and Hurtful Language](http://www.kidpointz.com/behavior-tools/bullying-tools/view/peer-pressure-feelings.html) from Kid Pointz > [![Social Emotional Workshop on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/logo-e1467020698143.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop)“One of my schools used sociograms as part of how we identify students who may be in additional need of support and/or vulnerable to bullying. Sociograms helps identify social groups, isolated students, and dynamics within a classroom. 6 Seconds has a [great article](http://www.6seconds.org/2012/05/08/sociograms-mapping-the-emotional-dynamics-of-a-classroom/) about how it can be used.” **– [Laura, Social Emotional Workshop](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop)** - **[Bystander Revolution](http://www.bystanderrevolution.org/)** ##### **Print and Go Resources** - [Bullying Education and Prevention Workbook for Elementary School Counseling](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bullying-Education-and-Prevention-Workbook-Elementary-School-Counseling-2237492) from Counselor Keri - [No Bullying Rules Posters](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/No-Bullying-Rules-Posters-2003532) from Speckled Moose Counseling - [Bullying Prevention: Quiz, Quiz, Trade Cards](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bullying-Prevention-Quiz-Quiz-Trade-Cards-1856324) from Mrs. Bell, The Crafty Counselor - [Take a Stand Against Bullying: How to be a Buddy, Not a Bully](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Take-a-Stand-Against-Bullying-How-to-Be-a-Buddy-Not-a-Bully-2104734) from Mrs. Bell, The Crafty Counselor - [We Vote No to Bullying!](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Vote-No-to-Bullying-Board-Game-1362012) (Board Game) from School Counseling is Magical - [Bullying Prevention Bully Proof Shield Activity](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bullying-Prevention-Bully-Proof-Shield-Activity-2819023) from Kiddie Matters - [I am a Bucket Filler Activities](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/I-Am-A-Bucket-Filler-Activities-2812804) from Kiddie Matters[ ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bullying-Prevention-Bully-Proof-Shield-Activity-2819023) - [Bully Proof Bingo ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bully-Proof-BINGO-1160187)from Carol Miller, The Middle School Counselor - [No Bullying Bingo](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/No-Bullying-Bingo-1999358) from Speckled Moose Counseling - [Free Bullying Prevention Bookmarks](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bullying-Prevention-Bookmarks-Free-2796786) from CounselorChelsey ![pin-preventing-bullying-tips](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Pin-Preventing-Bullying-Tips-200x300.png) **Categories:** Collaboration, Counselor Chats, Your Program **Tags:** bullying, CC tips, Counseling Wisdom, EduKate & Inspire, Little Miss Counselor, Mental Fills, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, School Counselor Stephanie, Social Emotional Workshop, The Counseling Teacher Brandy --- ### [Five Friday Finds: Cyber Bullying](https://confidentcounselors.com/five-friday-finds-cyber-bullying/) **Published:** November 4, 2016 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** ![Cyberbullying resources](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Friday-Finds-Blog-Cyber-Bullying-1.png) Great print and go resources to use in classrooms and small groups. 1. [Cyber Bullying Handouts,Visual Aids, and Activities](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cyber-Bullying-Handouts-Visual-Aids-and-Activities-2432117) from **Counselor Keri.** 2. [Cyber Smarts Bundle](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cyber-Smarts-Bundle-2028785) from **Carol Miller, The Middle School Counselor.** 3. [Cyber Bullying Scoot Game](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cyber-Bullying-Scoot-Game-includes-posters-2392722) from **School Counseling is Magical** 4. [Internet Safety, Social Media, Technology Addiction and Online Reputation](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Internet-Safety-Social-Media-Technology-Addiction-Online-Reputation-2517477) from **The Counseling Teacher** 5. [Cyber Bullying Videos](http://cyberbullying.org/videos) to use for presentations and discussions. Great site filled with resources for educators, parents and teens. **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Counseling **Tags:** bullying, technology --- ### [Five Friday Finds: Data in School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/five-friday-finds-data-school-counseling/) **Published:** November 11, 2016 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** ![Data in school counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Friday-Finds-Blog.png "Data in school counseling") 1. [Google Form School Climate Survey](http://www.counselorup.com/blog/google-form-school-climate-survey) from Counselor Up 2. [Be Data Inspired: Using EzAnalyze TimeTracker](http://www.thecounselinggeek.com/2015/12/data-inspired.html) by The Counseling Geek 3. [Editable Individual Behavior Plans with Data Tracking](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Individual-Behavior-Plan-Pack-with-Editable-Plans-2153211) from Social Emotional Workshop 4. [The Use of Data in School Counseling](http://amzn.to/2fh6eI1) by Trish Hatch 5. [School Counseling Data Specialist](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/school-counselors-members/professional-development/asca-u-specialist-trainings/school-counseling-data-specialist-training) course from ASCA **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Data **Tags:** data --- ### [An Ounce of Prevention](https://confidentcounselors.com/an-ounce-of-prevention/) **Published:** November 27, 2016 **Author:** School Counselor Stephanie **Content:** ## ![Ounce of Prevention](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Blog-An-ounce-of-Prevention.png) ## School Counselors and Classroom Management Classroom management is a major aspect of effective teaching and learning. The type of classroom management that a teacher has will set their classroom tone and make or break student learning. The best kind of classroom management is preventative, where the classroom environment it set up so it is hard for students to disrupt or avoid learning because most of the opportunities for them to make trouble have been removed. School counselors are often called upon to provide advice or resources for teachers struggling with classroom management issues. This article will provide several management resources for school counselors to use in their own guidance lessons as well as resources to pass on to the teachers they support. ### **Classroom Management Support for Counselors** Managing the classroom is an important part of the school counselor’s guidance or counseling lessons. When I first started out as a rookie school counselor back in 2008, I thought I’d alleviate some teacher work load, and tell them they didn’t need to stick around to discipline during my guidance lessons. Mistake! I realized pretty quickly that while the kids followed my rules and accepted my consequences for misbehavior, they lost sight of how I could support them. My (inappropriate) role as classroom disciplinarian, even in a short monthly 30 min lesson, seriously compromised the way that students interacted with me as a counselor. In short, they weren’t always comfortable coming to me for counseling help because they saw me as their disciplinarian, not as the non-judgmental, always-on-their-side school counselor. The moral of my story is that the teacher should stay in the classroom during school counseling lessons and manage student behavior so the school counselor doesn’t have any discipline conflicts of interest. ### **Classroom Management Support for Teachers** School counselors are often called upon to support teachers by providing effective classroom management resources and ideas. Sometimes these supports are needed for a challenging classroom and other times supports are needed for a challenging student. If you are a school counselor, there are many classroom management ideas that you can pass on to the teacher. The key in collaborating with teachers over classroom management issues is to wait to be asked and then give the teacher what they request. Management struggles are a sensitive topic for any educator, so it is better to wait for the teacher to seek out help, than to rush in with all types of unsolicited support. In certain situations, it is fine to very gently offer support to the teacher, but leave the unsolicited-but-necessary classroom management issues to the school administration- the role of the school counselor is to support teachers, not to supervise or order teachers. In the same vein, it is important to provide the resources in a manner best suited to the teacher’s needs. After the teacher seeks support, the school counselor can ask the teacher how they would like the support to be given- in the form of a classroom observation to help diagnose the management challenge, in the form of a technique or article to be shared, or in the form of a demonstration to model the technique in the classroom. Speaking of techniques, in my work with teachers, student teachers, and counseling interns over the past 20 years, here are the most common and helpful tips I have found on classroom management. ##### Managing the Classroom 1. ![games](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/games.jpg)Start off (especially during your first week with students) on a positive and engaging note to give learners a super-positive first impression of the class so they are excited to come future classes each day. Don’t be afraid to jump right in with fun games! Remember, you have enormous power to set the emotional tone- if you are excited, they will be excited. 2. Also start off your first lessons going over the classroom rules and consequences to set the tone. Have just 3-5 hard and fast rules, no matter the age of the learner. A well-constructed rule might be, “Raise your hand to share your ideas.” 3. ![playground](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Playground.jpg)Make sure your students are physiologically ready to learn- meaning, if they are not fresh as a group (because they have been in another class for many hours, or are tired because it is the end of the day, etc), let them have a snack and 15 minutes of movement (preferably outside) and/or chatting so they are physically ready to focus once you start teaching. 4. Always wait until you have everyone’s attention (they are looking at you and listening to you with no talking) before you address the class to give directions, announcements, instruction, etc. Go as slow or fast as the class requires- nothing sends a classroom into chaos faster than rushing students through content they are not ready for or boredom because the pace is too slow. 5. When giving directions, follow these steps: say one direction at a time, then point to the direction in writing (on chart paper, on the whiteboard, etc), then randomly select a student to repeat the direction to the class in their own words. Repeat these steps with every direction and try to limit an activity to just 3 or 4 directions at the most. 6. ![behavior plan](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Behaviorplan.jpg)Have a simple, tiered approach to consequences for breaking a rule; for example, first- a verbal warning, second- a private conversation after class, third- a parent phone call or points taken from grade. Be sure you follow it every time there is a breach, which can be difficult. 7. Start every new activity after a transition with students clearing the old materials off their desks and having the entire class get quiet before starting the new activity. 8. Speaking of transitions- limit them as much as possible. Bundle your teaching activities and topics so that students can focus uninterrupted on one topic at a time with minimal distractions by other activities or topics. 9. Give a 10 minute break every hour where students can stretch, stand up, put their head down, chat, use restroom, etc. 10. ![Circle Time](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/circletime.jpg)Give young students assigned spaces in line, assigned spots on the floor during Circle Time, assigned desks/seats, etc. This eliminates a lot of non-academic conversation and time. It also reduces student squabbles. ##### **Managing the Individual Student** While these ten tips will steer most classrooms into management bliss, there are some students who will always need a bit extra, a bit more than just the regular classroom rules, consequences, and procedures to show successful, positive behavior. For these students, I recommend a behavior chart. The key to a successful behavior chart experience (where “successful” means that the student uses the chart to change their negative behaviors into positive ones), is student buy-in and a high percentage of success with the chart for the first 2-4 weeks. ([F](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Ten-Commandments-of-Classroom-Management-Plus-a-Behavior-Chart-2761098)ree behavior management chart plus tips for getting student buy-in and early success with the chart). ![behavior chart template](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/bchart-template-300x275.jpg) In conclusion, effective classroom management is one of the great challenges and great rewards of the school environment. School counselors can play an invaluable role in helping teachers create the best classroom environment for their students. As a final set of resources to assist in this role, below are some links to fun and super-informative resources that will round out any teacher’s or counselor’s management toolbox. Happy Managing! - [Bilingual Learner: Classroom Management in the Counseling World](http://bilinguallearner.com/entries/counseling/blog-post-5) - [Edutopia: 5 Quick Classroom Tips for Novice Teachers](https://www.edutopia.org/blog/classroom-management-tips-novice-teachers-rebecca-alber) - [Buzzfeed: Insanely Clever Hacks for Teachers](https://www.buzzfeed.com/spenceralthouse/teacher-hacks?utm_term=.rx2GMZzOE#.rbvjDgYZX) - [BusyTeacher: 9 Cool Classroom Management Tricks](http://busyteacher.org/3578-classroom-management-tricks.html) [![Bilingual Learner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Bilingual-Learner-Icon-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Bilingual-Learner) **This article was written by Stephanie Lerner, a bilingual school counselor at a Title One middle school in Texas. She has taught and counseled for over 20 years. Visit her** [**Bilingual Learner TPT store**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Bilingual-Learner) **and** [**her Bilingual Learner website**](http://bilinguallearner.com/)**, for more teaching and counseling resources!** ![An Ounce of Prevention: School Counselors and Classroom Management](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Pin-An-ounce-of-Prevention-200x300.png) **Categories:** Uncategorized, Your Program --- ### [Fill Your Cup: Self Care for Real Life](https://confidentcounselors.com/fill-cup-self-care-real-life/) **Published:** November 27, 2016 **Author:** Counselor Up **Content:** ![Self Care](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Fill-Your-Cup.jpg) ###### From Rebecca at [Counselor Up](http://www.counselorup.com) Here’s what I’ve learned- every body is stressed. No matter what your job, your hours, or your home life, there are stressors. Call it the new way of life or whatever. When you read stories about self-care, you often see things about making time for yourself, exercising, having a massage, or slowing down. As a member of a profession where you can’t phone it in on a bad day and where you are going all. the. time. Who has time for that? What does self care really mean in actual life? Self care is filling your cup before it’s empty so that you have enough to give. For me, that means making things easier and not harder, setting small goals for taking care of my physical self, and having some fun once in awhile. There’s a reason that we call it “practicing” self care, it takes practice. Self care is really about changing the way that you go about your day in order to take care of yourself. To fill your cup so that you can pour your energy into what you love. ### **Make Things Easier and Not Harder** We’re all different in how we can make things easier and not harder. I like to [prep things](http://www.counselorup.com/blog/category/organization) way in advance so I don’t feel stressed out. It might seem counter-intuitive but it really does help. In the moment, I know I’m good because it’s done and I don’t have to worry. Sometimes the best way to make things easier is to let go. Cross it off your list. That perfect holiday bulletin board? Forget it. The five course meal you were going to make for your friends? Order take out. Give yourself permission to not be perfect. Honestly, people enjoy being around not-perfect people more. When you’re stressed, everyone around you is stressed and that’s no fun! ### **Take Care of Your Physical Self** Each school year, I try to make a self-care goal. Two years ago it was to leave by 4:00 (a 9 hour day). I didn’t always leave at 4 but I left “early” more often than I would have without the goal. Last year, my goal was to eat during the day. I had been so busy that I wasn’t stopping to have any food and then I was completely useless by the end of the day. To help yourself, think about the times of the day when you feel like you are at complete empty. What would help you to have more energy? Eating? Walking? Going Home? Then do it. ### **Have Some Fun** It’s really important for me to have fun with the people that I work with. I try to schedule occasionally happy hour get togethers. At my last two schools, I was in charge of the social list. Everyone was invited to join and then I would send any invites out from the staff for happy hours, pick up games, concerts, or any other fun happenings going on. I also instituted staff [shout outs](http://www.counselorup.com/blog/staff-shout-outs) at both schools. Staff could give compliments to each other and spread the cheer at each monthly staff meeting. I’m a complete social butterfly so these kinds of things really are fun and add to my energy level during the year. So what will it be? How can you practice self-care right now? A massage is nice but if you just walk right back into your stressful life, what’s the use? [![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)](http://www.counselorup.com) **Categories:** Self Care **Tags:** self care --- ### [Growth Mindset: Tips for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/growth-mindset-tips-school-counselors/) **Published:** November 27, 2016 **Author:** Counselor Keri, Carol Miller Counseling Essentials and Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor and 6 more **Content:** ### ![blog-growth-mindset](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Blog-Growth-Mindset.png)Teaching & Encouraging Growth Mindset Growth mindset, from [Dr. Carol Dweck](http://amzn.to/2gp5PUm), is a revolutionarily simple yet often misunderstood concept. Teaching and encouraging a growth mindset in students is school counselor territory. In our school, it is essential that we understand the foundational concepts so we can support implementation and work effectively with our students. Confident Counselors are ready with some pointers and words of wisdom from their own practice. > [![Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselorkeri.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri)Always show excitement when a problem presents itself. Model for students how to approach a problem with determination and desire to grow from the challenge! – [Counselor Keri](http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/counselor-keri) [![Growth Mindset Classroom Guidance Lesson](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/GrowthMindsetLessonKeri-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/growth-mindset-tips-school-counselors/growthmindsetlessonkeri/) Growth Mindset Classroom Guidance Lesson [![Importance of Goal Setting Lesson](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/original-2268739-1-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/growth-mindset-tips-school-counselors/original-2268739-1/) The Importance of Goal Setting Lesson > [![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor)Teaching growth mindset is not a one day occurrence. We must strive to both teach and model it daily. When noticing a student is stuck in a fixed mindset moment, we must ask them, “What’s another lens we can look at this with? – [Carol Miller, The Middle School Counselor](http://www.themiddleschoolcounselor.com/) > > (Check out Carol’s [Getting Gritty with 8th Grade](http://www.themiddleschoolcounselor.com/2015/10/getting-gritty-with-8th-grade.html?m=0) Lesson) > [![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor)Teach these concepts over and over. It is tough to change someone’s mindset when they are use to thinking a certain way. Repetitively teaching these concepts are the best way to make the ideas stick and create a growth mindset in students. – [Mrs. Bell, The Crafty Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor) [![Mindset Posters](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Mindset-Posters-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/mindset-posters/) Growth Mindset Posters [![How to Escape Mindset Jail](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/MindsetJail-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/mindsetjail/) How to Escape Mindset Jail > [![Mental Fills on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/mental-fills.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mental-Fills)[Redefine the word “smart”](https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/the-secret-to-raising-smart-kids1/) by using it as a verb. Educate children that practice, effort, and perseverance is the new smart. The outcome of practicing this mindset becomes mastery. – [Mental Fills](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mental-Fills) > [![School Counseling is Magical](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/school-counseling-is-magical.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counseling-Is-Magical)I support a growth mindset by changing the way I talk to my students when they are feeling challenged and when they overcome an obstacle. Focus on their effort rather than the outcome. Instead of saying, ‘You are so smart’, I say ‘Wow! You really worked hard.’ or ‘You didn’t give up even when things were difficult.’. > > [Teach students about their brain](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Learning-and-the-Brain-Bingo-Teaches-Growth-Mindset-2684406) and its ability to stretch and grow. I start off my lessons with brain builders and encourage participation during my lessons. Students feel more confident in making a ‘guess’ rather than the need to be correct because they know that their brain is getting stronger. > > Spend a lot of time teaching students to use the word Yet. When I catch a student saying, “I can’t do it.” I will say…”Not Yet!” [Sesame Street Video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLeUvZvuvAs): Power of Yet > > Lastly, I have trained teachers on ways to incorporate growth mindset into their curriculum. Getting teachers on board is critical. This year, teachers started off the year showing [Class Dojo videos](https://ideas.classdojo.com/b/growth-mindset) and participating in Mindset Monday discussions. – [School Counseling is Magical](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counseling-Is-Magical) [![Growing Growth Mindset](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/GrowingGrowthMindset-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/growinggrowthmindset/) Growing a Growth Mindset [![Growth Mindset Booklet](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/GrowthMindsetBooklet-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/growthmindsetbooklet/) Growth Mindset Booklet > [![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)](http://www.counselorup.com)Add the word “yet” when you hear yourself or others say they can’t do something, don’t know something, or aren’t good at something. – [Counselor Up](http://www.counselorup.com) > [![Social Emotional Workshop on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/logo-e1467020698143.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop)My biggest tip is to understand growth mindset better. It is on the verge of being another [passionately and incorrectly implemented initiative](http://www.theatlantic.com/education/archive/2015/12/when-grit-isnt-enough/418269/). Growth mindset isn’t what paves the path, it is realizing a path exists at all. There are limits students impose on themselves and there are limits that are imposed on them that take a lot of support to move beyond. Our job is to help remove that fixed thinking, and work towards [concrete goals](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/SMART-Goal-Activities-and-Monitoring-for-Counseling-2007441), create plans to counter limits in their environment, celebrate small successes, and teach them how to pave the path forward once they can see it. – Laura from Social Emotional Workshop [![SMART Goals](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/SMARTGoals-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/tips-setting-goals-students/smartgoals/) SMART Goals: Activities for Counseling [![Growth Mindset Lesson on Stress Management](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Stress-Lesson-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/stress-lesson/) Growth Mindset Lesson on Stress Management > [![Bilingual Learner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Bilingual-Learner-Icon-297x300.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Bilingual-Learner)Guide your students to [set small goals](http://bilinguallearner.com/entries/counseling/goal-based-counseling-working-the-growth-mindset) that can be achieved and built upon over time- then praise their progress, no matter how small. – [The Bilingual Learner](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Bilingual-Learner) > [![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-300x300.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire)I use a combination of video clips, hands-on challenges, and picture books to teach the concept of growth mindset. The video clips set the stage for the lesson and are great for grabbing students’ attention. I love using hands-on challenges because they help to give students first-hand experience with overcoming a problem. I also enjoy using picture books to illustrate growth mindset because students can easily relate to the characters in the stories. To check out my [favorite (free!) growth mindset resources](http://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/2016/11/growth-mindset-resource-round-up.html), visit my blog post – Kate from EduKate & Inspire ###### What are you doing to promote a growth mindset? ##### **Growth Mindset Resource Recommendations** - [Mindset Kit](https://www.mindsetkit.org/) - [Video: Encouraging Students to Persist through Challenges](https://www.teachingchannel.org/videos/persist-through-challenges-perts) - [Edutopia: Growth Mindset Resources](https://www.edutopia.org/article/growth-mindset-resources) - [Book: The Salt in His Shoes](http://amzn.to/2gsS1f8) ![Tips for Teaching Growth Mindset](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Pinterest-Growth-Mindset-200x300.png) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Counselor Role **Tags:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials, CC tips, Counselor Keri, Counselor Up, EduKate & Inspire, growth mindset, Mental Fills, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, School Counseling Is Magical, School Counselor Stephanie, setting goals, Social Emotional Workshop --- ### [Beating (Holiday) Stress and Burnout](https://confidentcounselors.com/beating-holiday-stress-burnout/) **Published:** November 27, 2016 **Author:** School Counseling is Magical, School Counselor Stephanie and Counselor Up and 4 more **Content:** ![Holiday Stress and Burnout](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Email-Holiday-Stress.png) ##### Beating Stress During the Holidays and After Our positions can be challenging and stressful. It is important during this hectic time of year to be mindful of your stress. Check out tips from some veterans on how they manage and take care of themselves. > [![Bilingual Learner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Bilingual-Learner-Icon-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Bilingual-Learner)It is so important to exercise clear and professional boundaries, especially during the holidays when kid issues are rampant and students need extra attention from us. Most school counselors have ratios way over the recommended average (1:250), so it is crucial to know your job duties, to stay within the boundaries of those duties, and to strengthen your professional skills in [deflecting non-counseling duties outside those boundaries](http://bilinguallearner.com/entries/counseling/the-art-of-saying-no-gracefully-deflecting-non-counseling-non-esl-duties). [Knowing your job role](http://bilinguallearner.com/entries/counseling/blog-post-20) and staying in your lane works wonders to minimize burnout, especially during the busy and stressful holiday season! – [Bilingual Learner](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Bilingual-Learner) [The Unstressables Stress Management Group Counseling Guide ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Unstressables-Stress-Management-Group-Counseling-Guide-2013568) > [![School Counseling is Magical](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/school-counseling-is-magical.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counseling-Is-Magical)1) Spend time with friends and family over the holidays–try to avoid taking work home, 2) Shop online, 3) Try to get some rest over the break–avoid filling up your schedule, 4) Make a priority list and check off things as they are completed, 5) Take time for yourself–take yourself out to lunch, join a yoga class, get a manicure or pedicure, go for a walk in the park, 6) Learn to say No–if it is going to add more stress, sometimes you just have to politely say no. – [School Counseling is Magical](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counseling-Is-Magical) [More Tips from Psychology Today](https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/high-octane-women/201311/7-smart-strategies-avoid-holiday-burnout) > [![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)](http://www.counselorup.com)Create a ‘back up team’ of helpful parents. Ask parents to sign up to receive emails when the student services department becomes aware of a need for students. This back up team can be a lifesaver when you’re in a time crunch. – [Counselor Up](http://www.counselorup.com) [Free Holiday Gift Tags ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/FREE-Holiday-Gift-Tags-2237018) > [![Social Emotional Workshop on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/logo-e1467020698143.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop)Take care of yourself personally. Spend time with people who know you and who are outside of work. It is important to separate from the negativity swirl that can go around difficult students, challenging administrations, or demanding parents. Take care of yourself professionally. Schedule yourself for a conference. They are energizing and filled with other professionals. [Don’t be afraid to consider a change](http://socialemotionalworkshop.com/2015/08/change-is-good-and-horrifying/). A new district, a new school, or a new position. Take care of yourself personally and professionally. – [Social Emotional Workshop](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop) > [![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-300x300.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire)During the holiday weeks, a little pick-me-up goes a long way for staff members! Add a “survival basket” to your teacher’s lounge and fill it with some teaching essentials. Think of some hot commodities for your lounge like plastic silverware, K-cups, chocolate, little hand sanitizers, hand lotion, and flavored tea. Place some funny memes around the lounge for a laugh. You can even add a [silly Christmas Countdown](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Santas-Beard-Countdown-to-Christmas-442757) to help your staff count down the days until break! – Kate from [EduKate & Inspire](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire) > [![Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselorkeri.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri)Schedule dedicated time for self-care. It tends to be the last thing on the list when we have students in crisis or in need, especially around the holidays. Even if your self-care activity is only 5 minutes each day, it’s an important 5 minutes to allow yourself. – [Counselor Keri](http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/counselor-keri) - [The Importance of Self Care](http://www.schoolcounselor.org/magazine/blogs/january-february-2011/the-importance-of-self-care) from ASCA - [Your Invited to a Zen Party ](http://counselorkeri.blogspot.com/2016/11/youre-invited-zen-party.html) from Counselor Keri’s Blog - [How Clinicians practice Self Care: 9 Tips ](http://psychcentral.com/lib/how-clinicians-practice-self-care-9-tips-for-readers/) > [![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor)Take time to do something that you love and do not feel bad about it. Make time to go for a walk to clear your mind, take that long hot bubble bath, get a massage; do something for yourself that calms your mind and makes you smile. – [Mrs. Bell, The Crafty Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor) ##### Contributing (Less Stressed) Confident Counselors [![School Counseling is Magical](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/school-counseling-is-magical.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-is-magical-2/) [![Social Emotional Workshop on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/logo-e1467020698143.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/logo/) [![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-150x150.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/small-group-counseling-organize-and-run-successful-groups/watercolor-logo/) [![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/counselor-up-2/) [![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/mrs-bell-the-crafty-counselor-2/) [![Bilingual Learner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Bilingual-Learner-Icon-150x150.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/back-to-school-tips/bilingual-learner-icon/) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Self Care **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Keri, Counselor Up, EduKate & Inspire, holidays, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, School Counseling Is Magical, School Counselor Stephanie, self care, Social Emotional Workshop, stress --- ### [Confident Counselors' Resolutions](https://confidentcounselors.com/confident-counselors-resolutions/) **Published:** January 3, 2017 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** [![Confident Counselors' Resolutions](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Email-Better-Us-Better-Them.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/01/03/confident-counselors-resolutions/)There is something magical about the way a new year can feel like a clean slate. In schools, we are pretty lucky because we get this clean slate twice a year. As we head back to school this week, we are working on resolutions, not just our students, but for ourselves. What are your personal and professional resolutions for the new year? ### Personal Goals: This new year, I am going to … [![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/counselor-up-2/) [![The Counseling Teacher](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/the-counseling-teacher.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/the-counseling-teacher/) [![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-150x150.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/small-group-counseling-organize-and-run-successful-groups/watercolor-logo/) [![Social Emotional Workshop on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/logo-e1467020698143.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/logo/) > Improve my self-care… a never-ending goal! – Kate from [EduKate & Inspire](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire) > > Read 130 books in 2017. – [Counselor Up](http://www.counselorup.com) > > Set [clear work hours](https://join.40htw.com/40htw/) so I can make time to enjoy the city I live in and learn to draw. – Laura, [Social Emotional Workshop](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop) > > Practice contentment.- [Counselor Keri](http://Www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/counselor-Keri) > > Be more organized at school and at home. I will be more mindful about [using my planner](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-Planners-and-Forms-for-Every-Educator-Specialist-2609609) to write down short and long term goals. “If you don’t plan your day, somebody else will do it for you!” – [Brandy Thompson, The Counseling Teacher](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson) ### Professional Goals: This new year, I am going to … [![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-150x150.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/small-group-counseling-organize-and-run-successful-groups/watercolor-logo/) [![School Counseling Files](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/School-Counseling-Files-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselor-office-essentials/school-counseling-files-3/) [![Bilingual Learner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Bilingual-Learner-Icon-150x150.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/back-to-school-tips/bilingual-learner-icon/) [![CounselorChelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/CounselorChelsey-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/small-group-counseling-organize-and-run-successful-groups/counselorchelsey-3/) > Lead by example, rather than with words. – [Stephanie Lerner – Bilingual Learner](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Stephanie-Lerner-Bilingual-Learner) > > Stick to an organization system. – [Counselor Keri](http://Www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/counselor-Keri) > > Spend more time reading about evidence based practices from the field. – [CounselorChelsey](http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/CounselorChelsey) > > Collect data daily on how my time is spent at school so that I can “work smarter, not harder” and develop a more efficient way to deliver services in my building next year. – [Laurie Mendoza/School Counseling Files](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com) > > Work on curriculum mapping. I have always been a whole-to-part thinker, which impacts my school-wide programming. I would like to take all of my classroom lessons and school-wide programming and link them to the ASCA Mindsets and Behaviors to see where I can improve my programming. – Kate from [EduKate & Inspire](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire) ### What are you working on? ![Confident Counselors New Years Resolutions](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Pin-Better-Us-Better-Them-200x300.png) **Categories:** Counselor Role **Tags:** CC tips, setting goals --- ### [Bibliotherapy and Diversity](https://confidentcounselors.com/bibliotherapy-and-diversity/) **Published:** January 3, 2017 **Author:** The Counseling Teacher Brandy **Content:** ### [![Bibliotherapy and Diversity](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/15870635_10212142368221118_262034401_n.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/01/03/bibliotherapy-and-diversity/) ### Finding the Words: Bibliotherapy & Diversity How does one “teach” others to be respectable citizens who appreciate and even celebrate the unique qualities of others? Is it possible to teach that in a lesson? Most would argue that being a model of such behavior is a crucial first step. The way we educators talk about and react to others will have the greatest impact on our youth. They are watching us. They can spot a fake. They will know if we practice what we preach. So, before we even begin trying to *teach* cultural competency, we have to live it. But, we can do better than live it. We can CELEBRATE it. Before becoming a school counselor, during my elementary classroom teaching days, I found every chance I could to get excited over unique qualities in students. If a student spoke another language, for example, I would become utterly fascinated with the idea that they could do something so special. We would make a fun game of it I wanted every child to feel completely special for having something that was unique to them. It could be as little as gurgling their milk to the tune of the Star Spangled Banner during snack time. When we show children that we can differ on so many levels, then skin color, culture, and socioeconomic status become just a drop in the bucket in the sea of things that make us unique. In addition to modeling an excited attitude towards uniqueness, bibliotherapy is another great way to encourage cultural competence. I like to find stories of how others were empowered to be proud of their unique qualities. Using well chosen books to teach a lesson can be very helpful in explaining these topics that are hard to define in one simple definition. A story can truly tell a thousand words for you. Other reasons why I love using books to teach diversity is that these stories tend to normalize the feelings of the readers and offer hope. All students can relate in some way to stories of feeling different or left out. Books offer inspiration, guidance, and a light at the end of the tunnel. There’s nothing I love better than teaming up with a teacher to intertwine our lessons and use time more wisely. I would recommend getting a teacher on board to read a particular book with their class(es) that would be useful for their lessons but at the same time would provide an introductory or background story for one of your lessons. With the limited amount of classroom time that many of us face, this can be a huge benefit to your comprehensive school counseling program. We are fortunate enough at our school to have an administrative team that is supportive of our efforts. Last year, our assistant principal had the wonderful idea of having the 6th grade students read *Wonder* with their Language Arts teachers to serve the dual purpose of academic and character education. Now that’s a win win situation! Scholastic recommends books such as [*All Kinds of Families* ](http://amzn.to/2j1RWgi)by Mary Ann Hoberman, [*I Have a Dream* ](http://amzn.to/2iFQEL5)by Martin Luther King, Jr, [*It’s a Small World* ](http://amzn.to/2j1RL4q)by Disney Press, [*I, Too, Am America* ](http://amzn.to/2iFx4i2)by Langston Hughes, [*Mostly Monsterly* ](http://amzn.to/2iFQeV1)by Tammi Sauer*, [Wonder](http://amzn.to/2hNofys)* by R.J. Palacio and [*Temple Grandin: How the Girl Who Loved Cows Embraced Autism and Changed the World*](http://amzn.to/2iN1kVt) by Sy Montgomery. [![Wonder by R.J. Palacio](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/wonder-198x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/wonder/) [![It's a Small World](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Its-a-small-world-300x262.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/its-a-small-world/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/TempleGrandin-216x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/templegrandin/) [![All Kinds of Families by Mary Ann Hoberman](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/All-Kinds-of-Families-233x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/all-kinds-of-families/) [![Mostly Monsterly by Tammi Sauer](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Mostly-Monsterly-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/mostly-monsterly/) [![I have a dream](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/I-have-a-dream-300x293.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/i-have-a-dream/) [![I, Too, Am America by Langston Hughes](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/i-too-am-america-247x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/i-too-am-america/) There are also dozens of lessons for all age groups on Teachers Pay Teachers to discuss related topics in a safe, comfortable setting. The Inspired Counselor has a companion lesson for the book The Crayon Box That Talked. (Pre-K -2nd grade) Counselor Keri has an adventurous lap book lesson for grades 4-6. My lesson is geared towards grades 5-9 and explores how to celebrate differences and break free of stereotypes. [![Diversity Celebrating Differences](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Diversity-Celebrating-differences-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/diversity-celebrating-differences/) Diversity: Celebrating Differences [![Valuing Cultural Differences](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Cultural-Differences-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/cultural-differences/) Valuing Cultural Differences [![Inspired Counselor: Diversity Lesson](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Diversity-Crayon-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/diversity-crayon/) Diversity Lesson: The Crayon Box that Talked With so many choices, I’d love to know your favorite book or lesson for discussing cultural competency. Leave a comment with your tried and true tips! ***– The Counseling Teacher, Brandy Thompson*** [![The Counseling Teacher](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/the-counseling-teacher.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson) [![Bibliotherapy and Diversity](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/15909304_10212142371541201_1362799814_o-133x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/01/03/bibliotherapy-and-diversity/) ***Pin Me!*** **Categories:** Counseling **Tags:** book recommendations, diversity --- ### [Tips for Setting Goals with Students](https://confidentcounselors.com/tips-setting-goals-students/) **Published:** January 3, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Keri, Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop and Laurie P Mendoza and 5 more **Content:** [![Tips for Setting Goals with Students](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Email-Student-Goal-Setting.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/01/03/tips-setting-goals-students/) As counselors, we are constantly trying to help students make progress academically, socially, behaviorally, and emotionally. We know how necessary it is to use effective techniques to help students set goals, break them into manageable tasks, and track those goals. Here are a few tips and resources that may be helpful as we begin 2017. > [![Social Emotional Workshop on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/logo-e1467020698143.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop)I focus on making things visual and concrete. We create a goal board, either in their counseling notebook or on the wall. We write down the big goal and start brainstorming all the steps we need to get there and the help will need to achieve those. – [Laura, Social Emotional Workshop](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop) > > [![SMART Goals](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/SMARTGoals-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Happy-New-Year-Activities-for-Setting-SMART-Goals-2007441)SMART Goals > [![Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselorkeri.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri)When working with students on goal setting, I always follow SMART goal format but also have students set “mini deadlines” for smaller increments and identify supportive people who can help them stay on track and tackle roadblocks. – [Counselor Keri](http://Www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/counselor-Keri) > > [![SMART Goals: New Years Resolutions](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Smart-Goals-New-Years-Resolutions-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/SMART-Goals-New-Years-Resolutions-Elementary-School-Counseling-2835880) > [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/School-Counseling-Files.jpg)](www.schoolcounselingfiles.com)I’ve used a “Reach for the Stars” activity I saw on Pinterest to create a bulletin board. – [Laurie Mendoza/School Counseling Files](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com) > > [![Goals Bulletin Board](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Goals-Bulletin-Board.jpg)](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com/blog/category/bulletin%20boards)click image for more detail > [![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-300x300.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire)I like to help students celebrate the small steps they are taking to reach their goals. During my goal setting lessons, I help students break larger goals into smaller parts. We look for small steps that are easy to accomplish, which helps motivate students to keep moving toward their ultimate goal. – [Kate from EduKate & Inspire](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire) (Also, check out Kate’s tips for [welcoming students arriving mid-year](http://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/2016/08/how-to-welcome-new-students.html)) > ![The Counseling Teacher](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/the-counseling-teacher.jpg)It is important to show students how to properly use an agenda pad or daily calendar. Have them use that calendar to write down weekly, monthly, quarterly, or yearly goals based on their needs. So many students skip this important tool because they think they can “remember” everything. Show students your own planner and how you use it. I often tell my students that if I don’t write it down, it may or may not get done. It’s okay to need a reminder. We aren’t super human. Showing students how to plan properly is key to better organization and goal setting. – [Brandy, The Counseling Teacher](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson) > > [![Mindful Resolutions Freebie](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/MindfulResolutionsFreebie-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mindful-Resolutions-2930581)Mindful Resolutions FREEBIE > ![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)Kids have no idea how to set a goal. We assume that they do because we do (sometimes). I like to work with kids to create a SMART goal. It takes a lot of work, but it’s worth it when you see the big aha! – [Counselor Up](http://www.counselorup.com) > > [![Self Discipline and Goal Setting](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Self-Discipline-and-Goal-Setting-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Character-Ed-Lessons-Self-Discipline-and-Goal-Setting-K-5-Lesson-Pack-2249256)Self Discipline and Goal Setting > ![Bilingual Learner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Bilingual-Learner-Icon-297x300.png)Guide your student to choose a goal that is important to them (not just to the adults in their life), and that is attainable. It is best to use the SMART goal formula- specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, timely- to help students create a goal they are most likely to have success with. Finally, baby steps- just one goal at a time! – [Stephanie Lerner – Bilingual Learner](http://bilinguallearner.com/) > > [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Get-Your-Goal-ON-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Get-Your-Goal-On-Academic-Achievement-Group-Counseling-Guide-2109323)Get Your Goal On > [![CounselorChelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/CounselorChelsey-224x300.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselorchelsey)My favorite thing to remember when working on goal setting with students is to make sure they select their goal. It can be so easy to tell students what WE or the teachers want them to focus on, but they are much more willing and able to make progress if they choose the goal! – [CounselorChelsey](http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/CounselorChelsey) ### How do you approach goal setting with students? What are your favorite resources? [![Student Goal Setting](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Pin-Student-Goal-Setting-200x300.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/01/03/tips-setting-goals-students/pin-student-goal-setting/) **Categories:** Counseling, Counselor Chats **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Chelsey, Counselor Keri, Counselor Up, EduKate & Inspire, School Counseling Files, School Counselor Stephanie, setting goals, Social Emotional Workshop, The Counseling Teacher Brandy --- ### [January Product Finds](https://confidentcounselors.com/january-product-finds/) **Published:** January 4, 2017 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** [![January Product Finds](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/CounselingProduct-Finds.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/01/04/january-product-finds/) Product Finds for January. Click any image to see the product. Happy New Year! **[![Kids Helping Others](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Kids-Helping-Others-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kids-Helping-Others-A-Service-Club-Starter-Kit-1621948)Kids Helping Others: A Service Club Starter Kit** from [School Counseling Files](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com). *Are you looking for a way to help students develop a sense of responsibility and the ability to put themselves in someone else’s shoes? To turn them into active problem-solvers? Try starting a service learning club in your school!* [![Growth Mindset Winter Boardgame](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Growth-Mindset-Winter-Board-Game-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Growth-Mindset-Winter-Board-Game-I-Can-Bear-With-It-2917056) **Bear with it! A Winter Growth Mindset Game** from [CounselorChelsey](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselorchelsey). *This board game to help students learn about having a growth mindset. Covering the following topics: What is growth mindset, how growth mindset affects me, growth mindset strategies, and re-phrasing negative talk.* **[![Complimittens activity for compliments](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Complimittens-Activity-and-Bulletin-Board-Cover.001-150x150.jpeg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/50-off-Compli-Mittens-Activity-and-Bulletin-Board-2953840)Compli-Mittens Activity and Bulletin Board** from [Social Emotional Workshop](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop). *Winter themed activity where students exchange compliments written on mittens. Helps elementary school students practice giving and receiving compliments.* [![SMART Goals: New Years Resolutions](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Smart-Goals-New-Years-Resolutions-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/SMART-Goals-New-Years-Resolutions-Elementary-School-Counseling-2835880) **SMART Goals: New Year’s Resolutions** from [Counselor Keri](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri). *This classroom guidance lesson is perfect for back to school or refreshing and refocusing after the holidays!* **[![Goal Setting in 2017](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Ring-in-2017-with-Goal-setting-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Ring-in-2017-With-Goal-Setting-recently-updated-to-include-2017-worksheets-1622652)Ring in 2017 with Goal Setting** from [School Counseling is Magical](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counseling-Is-Magical). *The beginning of a new calendar year is a great time to teach students how to set and achieve goals. This activity packet will surely help your students begin thinking about some of their goals for the upcoming year and give them a set of tools to help them successfully reach their goals.* [![Goal Setting Banner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Goal-Setting-Banner-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Goal-Setting-Banner-2932272) **Goal Setting Banner** from [The Counseling Teacher](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson). *Need a fun, relaxing activity to promote goal setting and New Year’s resolutions? This calming coloring activity allows students to color away stress while also creating attainable goals for the new year.* [![Goal Setting For Success](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Goal-Setting-Flipbook-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Goal-Setting-For-Success-Flipbook-2937003) **The Goal Setting For Success Flipbook** from [Carol Miller, The Middle School Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor). *A great way for students to learn and practice setting SMART Goals and practicing positive mindset. Inside students will learn the importance of goal setting, how having a positive mindset can help you achieve your goals and get you back on track when you face hurdles, understand how our values can influence out goals, and what a SMART goal is and how to write one.* [![Goal Mountain: Goal Setting and Self-Discipline](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Goal-Mountain-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Character-Ed-Lesson-on-Self-Discipline-Goal-Setting-Goal-Mountain-Game-2263373) **Goal Mountain Game: Self Discipline and Goal Setting** from [Counselor Up](http://www.counselorup.com). *Hike up goal mountain! Choose a goal and then decide if each card works toward the goal (move forward) or away from the goal (stay in place). Reach the top of goal mountain and achieve your dreams!* **[![Zen Coloring To Do List](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Zen-Color-Behavior-Intervention-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Zen-Coloring-To-Do-List-Behavior-Intervention-2938600)Zen Coloring To Do Lists: A Secret Behavior Intervention** from The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store. *These Zen Coloring To Do Lists are a SECRET behavior intervention. We know the benefits of coloring to help reduce stress, promote a feeling of calm and to aid in creating mental clarity. However, some of our students are resistant to this, claiming coloring is for “kids.” However, these same students are often the ones who love to help.* [![Health Coping Skills Bilingual](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Healthy-Coping-Skills-Bilingual-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Habilidades-Saludables-de-Afrontamiento-Bilingual-Coping-Skills-Activity-2929202)**Health Coping Skills (Habilidades Saludables de Afrontamiento) Bilingual** from [Stephanie Lerner – Bilingual Learner](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Stephanie-Lerner-Bilingual-Learner?aref=6gln2gpq). *This bilingual resource includes various coping skills that Spanish-speaking students can use when they are feeling bad. The directions to the counselor are provided in English; only the student materials are in Spanish.* ### What are your favorite resources right now? ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Pin-CounselingProduct-Finds-200x300.png) **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without --- ### [5 School Counseling Activities Using Coffee Filters](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-ways-use-coffee-filters-school-counseling/) **Published:** February 5, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Keri **Content:** ![Coffee Filters in School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Slide2.jpg) I am constantly on the hunt for affordable craft supplies to use in counseling lessons and small groups. I troll the dollar aisles of all my favorite stores squirreling away supplies for the perfect lesson. After a visit to a Pre-K classroom decorated with beautiful, unique coffee filter snowflakes, I expanded my craft supply search to the kitchen aisle! Coffee filters are the perfect, affordable supply to jazz up your counseling lessons. Here are 5 ways that I use these dual-purpose gems: 1. ### **Talk about peer pressure** Supplies: 2 coffee filters, permanent markers, washable markers, water spray bottle Color one coffee filter with permanent markers and one with washable markers. Permanent marks represent strong statements standing up to peer pressure (“No, that’s not for me,” or “No, I’m not interested”). Washable marks represent weak statements standing up to peer pressure (“Um, not today” or “Nah I don’t think so”). Spray both coffee filters with the water bottle and watch what happens. The permanent marks (strong statements) don’t bleed or run while the washable marks (weak statements) bleed and run into one another. When we have strong statements standing up to peer pressure, we are less likely to give in or be swayed to do something we don’t want to do. When we have weak or no statements to stand up to peer pressure, we might be more easily swayed into doing things we aren’t comfortable doing just to blend in! ![Coffee Filters in School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/FullSizeRender-4-1024x768.jpg) 2. ### **Talk about coping skills** Supplies: coffee filter, string, 2 equally-weighted figurines Tie strings around one figurine’s hands and tape to the coffee filter to create a parachute. Drop both figurines at the same time and ask students to note the difference in the falling pattern. When we don’t have any tools that help us manage or deal with tough situations, it can feel like we’re free-falling. But when we have skills that help us deal with tough experiences in our lives, it’s like having a parachute: we can glide down and land on our feet!![Coffee Filters in School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/IMG_0973.jpg) 3. ### **Talk about growth** Supplies: coffee filters (one per student), washable markers, clothespins (one per student), pipe cleaners As a termination activity in a self-esteem small group, students write words or draw pictures to represent how they felt about themselves at the beginning of group. Spray the coffee filters with water and watch the words fade into something beautiful! Pinch the coffee filter in the middle and clip with a clothespin. Add pipe cleaner antennae to create a beautiful, transformed butterfly!![Coffee Filters in School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/PicMonkey-Collage-3-1024x512.jpg) 4. ### **Talk about diversity** Supplies: Coffee filter, washable markers, water spray bottle Draw lines on a coffee filter using skin-colored markers in separate areas. Communities can function when everyone looks the same or believes the same thing as their neighbors. Spray with water. But when our communities are made up of people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and ideals working together, the community is a much more beautiful place where we all contribute new ideas and can positively influence and challenge one another to expand our worldview! ![Coffee Filters in School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/PicMonkey-Collage-2-1024x512.jpg) 5. ### **Introduce thought filtering** Supplies: cup, rubber band, water pitcher, sand/dirt Place a coffee filter over a cup and secure it with a rubber band. Place sand/dirt on top of the coffee filter. The sand/dirt represents negative thoughts/self-talk. Pour water over the sand/dirt. Water represents our positive/neutral thoughts. The coffee filter keeps the negative thoughts from circulating in our minds and bringing us down while it permits positive thoughts to fill our minds! ![Coffee Filters in School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/PicMonkey-Collage-1024x256.jpg) What nontraditional supplies are you using in your counseling program? Let us know what other aisles we should be visiting![![Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Counselor-Keri-.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri)Visit Counselor Keri at her [TPT Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/counselorkeri/?hl=en), [Blog](http://counselorkeri.blogspot.com/), or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/counselorkeri/) for more great counseling ideas. ![Pin 5 ways to Use Coffee Filters in school counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Pin-5-ways-to-Use-Coffee-Filters-173x300.jpg) **Categories:** Counsel It Yourself (CIY), Quick Activities **Tags:** counseling activities, crafts --- ### [Multicultural Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/multicultural-counseling/) **Published:** February 5, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Up, School Counselor Stephanie and Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop and 3 more **Content:** **![Multicultural Counseling: Tips for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Email-Multicultural.png)**The amazing thing about being a school counselor is having the opportunity to work with all students in your building. Every student who walks in our building has the right to feel safe, accepted, and ready to learn. When working with culturally and linguistically diverse students, we need to expand our skills to incorporate an understanding of little people who may be different than us. Here are some tips to get started. > [![Bilingual Learner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Bilingual-Learner-Icon-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Bilingual-Learner)Multicultural counseling often involves helping immigrant students adjust to US culture. If you have immigrant students at your school, consider running a Culture Explorers group where they have a safe place to share their experiences and memories of home, as well as learn how to function in their new US culture. [Culture and ESL](http://bilinguallearner.com/entries/general/untitled-post-22) is a post with lots of tips and resources for supporting immigrant students from a counseling perspective. Additionally, [Exploring US Culture](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Exploring-US-Culture-Group-Counseling-Guide-852051), gives step-by-step lessons for how to facilitate a culture group. – Stephanie at [Bilingual Learner](http://bilinguallearner.com/) > [![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)](http://www.counselorup.com)One of my favorite quotes is “Other cultures are not failed attempts at being you” (Wade Davis). Think carefully and self-assess what you bring to each interaction with students. Learn from your students as much as they learn from you. Read more about [interrupting racism](http://www.counselorup.com/blog/interrupting-racism) and teaching [social justice through character education](http://www.counselorup.com/blog/leaders-in-history-courage-communicator). – Rebecca at[ Counselor Up](http://www.counselorup.com) > [![Social Emotional Workshop on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/logo-150x150.png)](http://bit.ly/299xEwC)When I started out in graduate school and later on when I was at my most recent school, I worked with predominantly Latino students living in poorer neighborhoods. Being aware of my own experiences, values and biases was the first essential step to working effectively in counseling with any population, but particularly this one. The next was reading and collecting as many resources as possible. Check out [The Morningside Center for Social Responsibility](http://www.morningsidecenter.org/) for classroom lessons and ways to approach current events. Outside of the counseling office, also consider [your role in helping culturally and linguistically diverse students access special education supports](http://www.readingrockets.org/article/school-counselors-and-school-psychologists-collaborating-ensure-minority-students-receive). – Laura at [Social Emotional Workshop](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop) > [![Kiddie Matters](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16558823_10212683589426957_216728880_n.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Kiddie-Matters)When working with students and families who are culturally different, it’s important to familiarize yourself with their cultural beliefs. These beliefs can have significant impact on parental involvement, attendance, and participation in certain school activities. For example, some students will celebrate holidays not observed on the academic calendar and therefore might require time off from school. Acknowledging and respecting students’ cultural beliefs will go a long way in helping you to build a trusting relationship with your students and their families. – Yanique at [Kiddie Matters](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Kiddie-Matters). Check out [The Making of A Culturally Competent Counselor](http://scholarworks.gvsu.edu/orpc/vol10/iss3/4/). > [![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-150x150.png)](http://bit.ly/EduKateTPT)One of my favorite resources for multicultural counseling is [Teaching Tolerance](http://www.tolerance.org). Visit the Teaching Tolerance website to subscribe to the free magazine, sign-up to receive weekly newsletters, or read about multicultural lessons you can implement at your school. The website also provides free webinars for educators and provides information about the annual Mix It Up at Lunch Day. – Kate at [EduKate and Inspire](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire) > [![The DIY Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor)One way to be culturally competent is to celebrate diversity. We host an annual event called Days of Diversity. Our building is transformed into an unbelievable sight with all the hallways decorated and every classroom a different country. Character Ed lessons are created by the counselors to aid in teaching cultural sensitivity and respect for all. The culminating event for this 3 day celebration is a night where families share their cultural traditions through a visual display of artifacts, dress, and food. We have a diverse population at our school with multiple religions, cultures, and ethnicities represented. It is an exciting week and promotes a culture of sensitivity in our building. Another helpful resource to use for awareness of different cultural celebrations is the [Interfaith Calendar of Holidays and Festivals.](http://www.nccjtriad.org/programs/documents/InterfaithCalendar2017-Final.pdf) – [The DIY Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor) ## Our Contributors [![The DIY Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselor-advocacy/16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n/) [![Bilingual Learner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Bilingual-Learner-Icon-150x150.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/back-to-school-tips/bilingual-learner-icon/) [![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-150x150.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/small-group-counseling-organize-and-run-successful-groups/watercolor-logo/) [![Kiddie Matters](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16558823_10212683589426957_216728880_n.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/creating-a-culture-of-kindness/16558823_10212683589426957_216728880_n/) [![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/counselor-up-2/) [![Social Emotional Workshop on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/logo-e1467020698143.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/logo/) ![Multicultural Counseling: Tips for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Pin-Multicultural-200x300.png) **Categories:** Counseling, Counselor Chats **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Up, diversity, EduKate & Inspire, Kiddie Matters, School Counselor Stephanie, Social Emotional Workshop, The DIY Counselor --- ### [Creating a Culture of Kindness](https://confidentcounselors.com/creating-a-culture-of-kindness/) **Published:** February 5, 2017 **Author:** The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store, Carol Miller Counseling Essentials and Counselor Chelsey and 10 more **Content:** ## **![Creating a Culture of Kindness: Tips for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Email-Kindness.png)Creating a Culture of Kindness** I recently saw a [video](https://www.facebook.com/1063649000424319/videos/1081141202008432/) on Facebook about two apples. Two apples you are probably thinking? Stay with me. On the outside these two apples looked the same, shiny and red. However, once the apples were opened, they were not the same. One was healthy looking and the other bruised. What a powerful moment. I wanted to share this with my students to teach the old saying “You can’t judge a book by its cover,” as illustrated with the apples. This example of not judging others applies to creating a culture of kindness. We cannot tell what challenges a person is going through just by looking at them, which is why it is so important to be kind to everyone all of the time. A simple act of kindness can change someone’s day and even inspire that person to pass it on. Here are some tips and resources you can use in order to promote a culture of kindness in your school. > [![The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store)Kindness really does count! Kindness costs nothing and can brighten someone’s day. I always talk to my students about how even small acts of kindness count (ex . holding the door open, offering a smile) and can help to change someone’s outlook for the better. When you make someone feel good, you feel good. This month, I have challenged my students to complete random acts of kindness for others with a [Kindness Challenge](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindness-Counts-Challenge-2933469) . We have an envelope with hearts pre-cut with ways to be kind to others. I encourage students to try to do one act of kindness a day. The goal is once the act has been completed, students can color the hearts and add to the Kindness Tree we are going to create. – [The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store) > [![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor)One act of kindness can make someone’s whole day. Every year I try to do a school wide effort to promote kindness. This year we are completing a Kindness Challenge. Students need to complete 14 acts of kindness in 14 days. My Lunch Bunch students are also prepared to spread good cheer to everyone by creating locker flags to place on every single locker in school. Lastly, we have a bulletin board where we have displayed pennants of student’s RAKs that they have been caught doing around school. – [Carol Miller – The Middle School Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor) Check out the [Random Acts of Kindness Project](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Random-Acts-of-Kindness-Project-2972443) > [![CounselorChelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/chelsey2.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselorchelsey)Kindness starts with us! This is a great time to show some extra kindness to the teachers and other staff at your school. Create goodie bags of candy, pass out fun pens, leave special messages in the teachers’ mailboxes, etc. When the teachers and staff feel valued and appreciated, the school climate is much more positive! – [CounselorChelsey](http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/CounselorChelsey) > [![Bilingual Learner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Bilingual-Learner-Icon-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Stephanie-Lerner-Bilingual-Learner)Creating a Culture of Kindness is not something the school counselor can do on their own. The word “culture” means that it must be a schoolwide effort that starts with your admin. Work with them in your monthly or weekly counselor-admin meetings to put the Culture of Kindness bug in their ear and offer to spearhead this cultural effort if you have the time, or at least offer to serve on the Culture of Kindness committee, if your time is very tight. It’s the SC version of paying it forward! – [Stephanie at Bilingual Learner](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Stephanie-Lerner-Bilingual-Learner) > [![The Counseling Teacher](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/the-counseling-teacher.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson)A little goes a long way with kindness. My favorite gesture is an old fashioned, handwritten note. There’s just something about the fact that somebody took the time to write out their thoughts about you. At our school, we mail handwritten postcards to students throughout the year. When I don’t have time to write my thoughts, I print out “Happy Cards” with pre-written notes of encouragement. – [Brandy at The Counseling Teacher](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson) Check out [Kindness Week Cards](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindness-Week-Cards-2511924) > [![School Counseling Files](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/School-Counseling-Files-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counseling-Files)At our school we often do a [Random Acts of Kindness Week](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com/blog/random-acts-of-kindness-week-2015) in February, but we also try and find other ways to promote kindness throughout the year. Before the holidays in December, one of our teachers found a cute activity (on Pinterest of course) where students wrote kind acts others did for them on holiday lightbulbs cut out of bright construction paper. We attached them to silver garlands and strung them in the halls for parent-teacher conference night. All staff try to point out and encourage kindness every day of the year. – [Laurie Mendoza at The School Counseling Files](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com/) > [![Mental Fills on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/mental-fills.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mental-Fills)An important aspect of teaching kindness is educating children about having compassion for their own selves. Addressing self-care strategies, such as basic hygiene, taking care of one’s body, following through with school responsibilities and personal commitments are critical foundational pieces to help generalize kindness to others. Check out [5 Simple Ways to Be Kind to Yourself](http://www.produceforkids.com/blog/5-simple-ways-be-kind-yourself) – [Mental Fills](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mental-Fills). > [![Kiddie Matters](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16558823_10212683589426957_216728880_n.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Kiddie-Matters)When trying to establish a culture of kindness, it’s important to involve students in the process. Ask them for ideas and suggestions of ways to promote kindness at school. Sometimes it’s easier for kids to buy into an idea when they play a role in how it’s implemented. Also, when you catch students being kind, it’s a good idea to recognize and praise them in front of others. This [Kindness Journal](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Character-Education-Teaching-Kids-About-Kindness-1751345) helps students internalize the character trait of kindness by giving them an opportunity to reflect on an act of kindness they have done and the impact it had on them and the person they were being kind to. – Yanique S. Chambers, LCSW/MA at [Kiddie Matters](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Kiddie-Matters) > [![Social Emotional Workshop on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/logo-150x150.png)](http://bit.ly/299xEwC)A big part of our role is advocating for and helping create a positive school climate. Random Acts of Kindness Week is a great time to incorporate [kindness activities](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/My-Kindness-Journal-for-Random-Acts-of-Kindness-Week-2985789) into your practice. Even better, consider with administration and teachers what your school plan is for integrating these concepts into the fabric of your school. Check out resources at the [National School Climate Center](http://www.schoolclimate.org/). – Laura at [Social Emotional Workshop](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop) > [![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg)](http://bit.ly/28YFwGm)Creating a culture of kindness is of utmost importance. At my school, I want students who care deeply about those around them and who will go the extra mile to help someone in need. Creating a culture of kindness takes school wide effort. I start by promoting it in my actions, hoping it will create a ripple effect. At the start of school, I say good morning to and compliment as many students as I can. It is amazing how many of them now say good morning and try to compliment me before I can say it to them. It sounds small, but those same students go on to greet their teachers and fellow students in the same manner, starting their days off on a positive note. One small action each morning helps to create a culture of kindness throughout the school. One small action starts the day off with kindness. I also incorporate kindness and empathy into each of my guidance lessons. Whether it be a short video or class activity, I always wrap kindness and empathy into my lessons [(check out this example lesson)](http://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/2016/03/will-you-help-flip-turtle.html). It shows the kids that kindness really matters. I love helping to set the foundation for kids to grow up to be caring adults. – [Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor) > [![The School Counselor Is In](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/theschoolcounselorisin3.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-School-Counselor-Is-In)Showing small acts of kindness makes a big difference in making school a positive place. During this time of year, we tend to see a significant increase in friendship issues between students. In an attempt to avoid this problem, we are holding our second annual Kindness Challenge at my school. I want my students to be aware of this issue and make a concentrated effort to promote kindness to those around them. Each student is given their own [Kindness Challenge Brochure](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindness-Challenge-Brochure-2514617) to color and make personal to them. The challenge is for each student to complete all 16 squares of kind acts of Be a Friend Bingo. Last year, I handed out 455 brochures and I received 327 back. Those who brought their brochure back to me, received a small treat. When I looked at all the returned brochures and started calculating the total numbers. It was exciting to think that 327 (students) x 16 Squares= 5,232 acts of kindness done at my school. – Jodi Mills at [The School Counselor Is In](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-School-Counselor-Is-In) > [![The DIY Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor)Creating a culture of kindness and a positive school climate is an ongoing process; we incorporate character ed lessons and bullying prevention lessons as part of our classroom curriculum to reinforce respect and kindness. I like to model kindness to students and staff by remembering birthdays. I fill out birthday cards from the counselor to all my students on my caseload with a small treat attached. Monthly, I send out a birthday list of all the staff birthdays to the faculty. Each staff member is given a birthday card with a free Chick Fil A sandwich coupon from the counselors. – [The DIY Counselor.](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor) > [![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-150x150.png)](http://bit.ly/EduKateTPT)Children can make a huge impact on the culture of kindness at your school! One way that I love helping children spread kindness is through positive notes to friends and staff members! I’ve found that once students start writing positive notes, they don’t want to stop! You can have students write notes on something simple like a Post-it note or you can turn it into a project. For a fun kindness project with a technology twist, check out [All iLove About You](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-iLove-About-You-Valentines-Day-Writing-Project-467780)! – Kate at [EduKate and Inspire](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire) ## Our Contributors [![The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/creating-a-culture-of-kindness/sunny-sunshine-student-support-store/) [![Kiddie Matters](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16558823_10212683589426957_216728880_n.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/creating-a-culture-of-kindness/16558823_10212683589426957_216728880_n/) [![The DIY Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselor-advocacy/16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n/) [![Bilingual Learner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Bilingual-Learner-Icon-150x150.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/back-to-school-tips/bilingual-learner-icon/) [![The School Counselor Is In](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/theschoolcounselorisin3.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/creating-a-culture-of-kindness/theschoolcounselorisin-4/) [![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/mrs-bell-the-crafty-counselor-2/) [![Mental Fills on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/mental-fills.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/mental-fills-2/) [![School Counseling Files](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/School-Counseling-Files-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselor-office-essentials/school-counseling-files-3/) [![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-150x150.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/small-group-counseling-organize-and-run-successful-groups/watercolor-logo/) [![CounselorChelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/CounselorChelsey-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/small-group-counseling-organize-and-run-successful-groups/counselorchelsey-3/) [![Social Emotional Workshop on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/logo-e1467020698143.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/logo/) [![The Counseling Teacher](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/the-counseling-teacher.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/the-counseling-teacher/) [![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/carol-miller/) ![Creating a Culture of Kindness: Tips for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Pin-Kindness-200x300.png) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Your Program **Tags:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials, CC tips, Counselor Chelsey, EduKate & Inspire, Kiddie Matters, kindness, Mental Fills, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, School Counseling Files, School Counselor Stephanie, Social Emotional Workshop, Sunny Sunshine Store, The Counseling Teacher Brandy, The DIY Counselor, The School Counselor Is In --- ### [School Counselor: Advocating for Your Role](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselor-advocacy/) **Published:** February 5, 2017 **Author:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials, School Counselor Stephanie and The Counseling Teacher Brandy and 6 more **Content:** ![Advocating for the Role of a School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Advocacy-Email.png)What do school counselors do? As professionals, we are continually answering this question as we advocate for our profession. To promote advocacy, the American School Counselor Association suggests to “speak up, reach out, and always use your data.” Counselors sometimes feel uncomfortable as they try to show their worth as a school counselor, but advocacy is necessary and will ultimately demonstrate how students are different because of what school counselors do. Here are some excellent tips and resources from Confident Counselors to assist you in advocating for your profession. > [![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg)](http://bit.ly/290jQIg)There’s a difference between education and advocating. Sometimes you need to figure out which one in your school building you need to be doing first. Most of the time it will be educating stakeholders about what your role as a school counselor is. Once they are aware, then you need to advocate for time, space, and responsibilities you should be doing based on what you told them you are supposed to do. Promote your program, use data, and keep records- these are the surest ways to educate and advocate. I use a school counseling brochure to inform parents, staff, and administrators what I do and the programs I offer. [Carol Miller – The Middle School Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor) Check out [School Counseling Brochure and Handouts](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/School-Counseling-Brochure-and-Handouts-1462398) > [![Bilingual Learner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Bilingual-Learner-Icon-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Bilingual-Learner)In this day and age, advocacy is a big part of our job as school counselors. And it’s like going to the gym or flossing- no one has time for it, but you MUST make time for it, carving 15 minutes or more into your daily schedule to work on it. Most administrators and educators have no idea what our SC job roles/duties are according to ASCA. Therefore, we must tell them- professionally, politely, and in increments. If you are at a school with no comprehensive school counseling program (CSCP), give yourself 3-5 years to work with your admin (adding new components every month and showing data to support how these components help students) to create your CSCP. Here’s a [post on school counselor advocacy](http://bilinguallearner.com/entries/general/untitled-post-27) with lots of tips and resources to help get the ball rolling at your school! [Stephanie at Bilingual Learner](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Stephanie-Lerner-Bilingual-Learner) > [![The Counseling Teacher](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/the-counseling-teacher.jpg)](http://bit.ly/thecounselingteacher)National School Counseling Week is the perfect time to showcase your duties as a School Counselor. To celebrate the week, we post pennant banners in each hallway with tidbits of information about what we do, mixed with encouraging quotes. We also hand out coloring bookmarks with our role and goals listed on the back. [Brandy at The Counseling Teacher](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson) Check out these [free printable bookmarks.](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/National-School-Counseling-Week-Coloring-Bookmarks-2364282) > [![School Counseling Files](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/School-Counseling-Files-150x150.jpg)](www.schoolcounselingfiles.com)When it comes to advocating for my program, data is my best friend. While I’ve always tracked things like the number of students I’ve provided services for or how many IEP meetings I’ve attended, this year I’m using a Google spreadsheet to collect detailed information on how I spend my time every day. At the end of the year I’ll have some fantastic data that I can share with staff and admins, and to use when planning for next year. Read more about it [here](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com/blog/where-does-the-time-go). [Laurie Mendoza at The School Counseling Files](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com/). > [![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)](http://www.counselorup.com)Advocating for your role as a school counselor means stepping out of your realm and into the realm of your stakeholders. Show your teachers, parents, and administrators how your work aligns with what is important to them. It’s not their job to figure it out for you! You can read how I manage (and share) [data without losing my mind](http://www.counselorup.com/blog/managing-your-data-without-losing-your-mind). – Rebecca at [Counselor Up](http://www.counselorup.com) > [![Social Emotional Workshop on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/logo-150x150.png)](http://bit.ly/299xEwC)Let’s be honest, when you are the only person doing your job, advocating for an effective role can be a challenge and it can feel awkward. Add on top of that, our schedules are not consistent or transparent to everyone. It can feel like we have extra time to be used for other tasks. While it is uncomfortable or hard, it is essential to advocate for boundaries in your role if you are going to be effective for students. It can be helpful for teachers and administration to have a better understanding of what you do. Consider starting a school newsletter or running teacher workshops. Check out [this post](https://www.cultofpedagogy.com/school-psychologist/) and [this post](http://www.cullomcorner.com/2016/09/10-things-your-school-psychologist.html#.WJTThrYrJp8) about the roles of school psychologists. – [Laura from Social Emotional Workshop](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop) > [![Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Counselor-Keri-.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri)For me, advocating for my role can sometimes be outside of my comfort zone, but knowing how important it is motivates me to step outside of that bubble. Volunteer to lead a staff training to show teachers how your work directly benefits them in the classroom, invite stakeholders to an informational presentation to review all of the amazing data you’ve been collecting, and make a big deal out of National School Counseling Week! It’s the perfect time to review your role and share your excitement over successful programs. – [Keri from Counselor Keri](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri) > [![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-150x150.png)](http://bit.ly/EduKateTPT)Documentation and data are two essential components of school counselor advocacy. By taking the time to stay organized and track important data, we can help to illustrate the value of our profession to stakeholders. I use a variety of tools to help me stay organized, including Google forms to log data, Google docs to track classroom lessons and small groups, and printable docs for intake and progress notes. To read more about how I stay organized, visit my blog post called [Google Docs for School Counselors](http://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/2016/07/google-docs-for-school-counselors.html) and check out my [School Counselor Documentation Pack](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/School-Counselor-Documentation-Pack-2638663). – Kate from [Edukate & Inspire](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire) > [![The DIY Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor)Developing a positive relationship with admin is vital in advocating for the role of counselor. Seek ways to partner with admin to reach school wide goals and work to align at least one of the counseling goals to the school improvement plan. Share a results report that reflects all of your amazing program accomplishments including activities and data. Volunteer to chair one of the faculty teams. Publicize your schedule and website, send counseling department info through your PTA/PTO, develop a school counseling handbook for faculty, and strive to demonstrate how your role as counselor benefits all students. A great resource to track your program activities and to demonstrate your use of time is the [School Counselor App (SCUTA)](http://counselorapp.com/). Check it out! – [The DIY Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor) [![Bilingual Learner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Bilingual-Learner-Icon-150x150.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/back-to-school-tips/bilingual-learner-icon/) [![Social Emotional Workshop on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/logo-e1467020698143.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/logo/) [![School Counseling Files](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/School-Counseling-Files-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselor-office-essentials/school-counseling-files-3/) [![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/carol-miller/) [![The Counseling Teacher](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/the-counseling-teacher.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/the-counseling-teacher/) [![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/counselor-up-2/) [![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-150x150.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/small-group-counseling-organize-and-run-successful-groups/watercolor-logo/) [![The DIY Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselor-advocacy/16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n/) [![Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Counselor-Keri-.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-ways-use-coffee-filters-school-counseling/counselor-keri-2/) ![Advocating for the Role of a School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Advocacy-Pin-200x300.png) **Categories:** Advocacy, Counselor Chats **Tags:** advocacy, Carol Miller Counseling Essentials, CC tips, Counselor Keri, Counselor Up, EduKate & Inspire, School Counseling Files, School Counselor Stephanie, Social Emotional Workshop, The Counseling Teacher Brandy, The DIY Counselor --- ### [12 Books to Help Kids Overcome Test Anxiety](https://confidentcounselors.com/twelve-books-to-help-kids-overcome-test-anxiety/) **Published:** March 6, 2017 **Author:** Kiddie Matters **Content:** Do you know a child that underperforms on tests no matter how much they study and prepare? Do they struggle to concentrate during exams because they are preoccupied with thoughts of failing? Do they find it difficult to recall information that previously came to them with ease? If this sounds like a child you know, they might be experiencing test anxiety. Although it’s normal for kids to feel some degree of anxiety about taking a test, when that anxiety impedes their ability to perform, test anxiety is the likely culprit. Test anxiety is the uneasiness and nervousness that some children experience before, during, or after taking a test. When kids are experiencing test anxiety they might complain of a stomachache, headache, sweaty palms, racing thoughts, and heart palpitations. Some kids with extreme anxiety get nauseas to the point of throwing up. There are several reasons why a child might experience test anxiety. It could be because they are worriers and are prone to being anxious. Sometimes kids are perfectionists and base their worth on high test scores. This can lead them to put an immense amount of pressure on themselves to perform. Additionally, children with learning disorders tend to be more prone to test anxiety. In order to help children overcome test anxiety, we must empower them with knowledge. When kids develop an understanding of what test anxiety is and can recognize the tell tale signs in themselves, they will be better prepared to manage their test anxiety. In addition, we need to show children that they are not alone in their experience. This will encourage them to ask for help when faced with test anxiety. Fortunately, there are several kid-friendly books to [help children learn how to deal with test anxiety](http://www.kiddiematters.com/how-to-help-kids-overcome-test-anxiety/01). Here is a list of books to introduce and discuss test anxiety with children: ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Composite-Picture-736x1024.png) ##### **[The Anti-Test Anxiety Society](https://www.amazon.com/Anti-Test-Anxiety-Society-Julia-Cook/dp/1937870308/ref=pd_sbs_14_t_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=QHJTDRA341HS2PKWSEEP)** **Recommended for Ages 4-8** [![Anti-Test Anxiety Society](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Anti-Test-Anxiety-300x266.jpg)](http://amzn.to/2m8t4b3)Bertha Billingsworth (BB) is a happy kid until she has to take a test. To her, the word test stands for **T**errible **E**very **S**ingle **T**ime because she always does poorly on her tests. That’s until her teacher invites her to become a member of the Anti-Test Anxiety Society. BB’s teacher helps change her perspective on taking tests by teaching her effective test taking strategies and how to relax. Now when BB takes a test she is calm, cool, and confident! ##### **[The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes](https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Who-Never-Made-Mistakes/dp/1402255446/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1487852883&sr=1-1&keywords=the+girl+who+never+made+mistakes)** **Recommended for Ages 4-8** [![The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/The-Girl-Who-Never-Made-Mistakes-300x254.jpg)](http://amzn.to/2m8jhBG)Beatrice Bottomwell is a nine-year-old girl who never makes mistakes. She is used to doing everything to perfection. Then one day the unthinkable happens. Beatrice makes a mistake! What will she do? How will she handle it? ##### **[It’s Test Day, Tiger Turcotte](https://www.amazon.com/Its-Test-Day-Tiger-Turcotte/dp/1575050560)** **Recommended Age 4-8**[![It's Test Day, Tiger Turcotte](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Its-Test-Day-189x300.jpg)](http://amzn.to/2m66sX5) Tiger Turcotte is anxious about taking the big second grade test. He struggles to fall asleep the night of the test and during the test he is so anxious he can’t even decide what circle to mark when he has to select his race. Will he be able to finish the test? ##### [Testing Miss Malarkey](https://www.amazon.com/Testing-Miss-Malarkey-Judy-Finchler/dp/0802776248/ref=pd_bxgy_14_img_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=0802776248&pd_rd_r=C6E5RYG551FRM07P9EF7&pd_rd_w=GQc3z&pd_rd_wg=MltVV&psc=1&refRID=C6E5RYG551FRM07P9EF7) **Recommended for Ages 6-9** [![Testing Miss Malarkey](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Testing-Miss-Malarkey-230x300.jpg)](http://amzn.to/2mDZDil)The new school year brings standardized testing to every school and Miss Malarkey’s school is no different. Teachers, students, and parents are frantically getting ready for the big test by teaching students how to relax and giving them test taking tips. Kids and adults alike will laugh aloud as Finchler and O’Malley poke fun at the commotion surrounding standardized testing. ##### **[The Big Test](https://www.amazon.com/Test-Mrs-Hartwells-classroom-adventures/dp/1580893619/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1487851971&sr=1-1&keywords=the+big+test)** **Recommended for Ages 6-9** [![The Big Test](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/The-big-test-240x300.jpg)](http://amzn.to/2m6aVbX)Mrs. Hartwell has done a great job preparing her class for the big test. She has taught them how to follow directions and how to fill in the bubbles on the test. She even reminded her students to eat a healthy breakfast before the test. There’s only one thing that Mrs. Hartwell forgot to do: she forgot to teach her students how to RELAX! ##### **[Suzie Bear and the Social Studies Test](https://www.amazon.com/Little-Bear-Who-Worried-Much/dp/1622120272/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1487854075&sr=1-1&keywords=suzie+bear+and+the+social+studies+test)** **Recommended for Ages 6 to 9** [![Suzie Bear and the Social Studies Test](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Suzie-Bear-and-the-Social-Studies-Test-292x300.jpg)](http://amzn.to/2lqx87C)Even though Suzie Bear studied for her social studies test and was well prepared, on the day of the test her mind went completely blank! Her paws began to shake and she couldn’t write a word. To Suzie’s surprise, she failed her test. How could this happen? Suzie began to worry about an upcoming test she had to take. She reached out to her family and teacher for help to make sure she doesn’t fail that test as well. Will Suzie be able to pass the test? ##### **[Worry Warriors: Anxious Adam Braves The Test](https://www.amazon.com/Anxious-Adam-Braves-Worry-Warriors/dp/1496536509/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1487852430&sr=1-1&keywords=worry+warriors+anxious+adam)** **Recommended for Ages 7-10** [![Worry Warriors](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Worry-Warriors-233x300.jpg)](http://amzn.to/2lqua33)Adam is dyslexic and has to work extra hard to read. He’s also not a very good test taker and is a nervous wreck during his school’s BIG test. What if he fails? Will he have to repeat fourth grade? Will everyone think he’s not smart? ##### **[Tyler Tames The Testing Tiger](https://www.amazon.com/Tyler-Tames-Testing-Tiger-Bender/dp/1931636273/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1487853330&sr=1-1&keywords=tyler+tames+the+testing+tiger.)** **Recommended for Ages 7-10** [![Tyler Tames the Testing Tiger](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Tyler-Tames-the-Testing-Tiger-230x300.jpg)](http://amzn.to/2lINvI1)In Tyler Tames The Testing Tiger, the main character, Tyler, uses sports strategies to “tame the testing tiger.” This book provides helpful strategies for parents, teachers, and counselors who want to help kids strengthen their test taking skills. ##### **[Outsmart Test Anxiety ](https://www.amazon.com/Outsmart-Test-Anxiety-Workbook-Conquer/dp/0615983537)** **Recommended for Ages 7-12** [![Outsmart Test Anxiety](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Outsmart-Test-Anxiety-232x300.jpg)](http://amzn.to/2lIuEgi)Outsmart Test Anxiety is a workbook to help kids who struggle with test anxiety. Through therapeutic art and writing exercises, kids process and learn to conquer their anxiety. They also learn studying and test-taking strategies. ##### **[Study Smart Junior: Studying Your Way to Stardom](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0679775390/ref=x_gr_w_bb_sout?ie=UTF8&tag=x_gr_w_bb_sout-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0679775390&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2)** **Recommended for ages 11 and up[![Study Smart Junior](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Study-Smart-Junior-201x300.jpg)](http://amzn.to/2mZpZHZ)** Being prepared for a test is an effective way to overcome test anxiety. In this story, young Babette and her friends learn good study habits, test preparation skills, how to take notes, and more! ##### **[Mathsketball: A Story of Test Anxiety](https://www.amazon.com/Mathsketball-Story-Anxiety-Erainna-Winnett/dp/0692206086/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1487849316&sr=1-1&keywords=mathsketball)** **Recommended for Ages 12-17[![Mathsketball](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Mathsketball-240x300.jpg)](http://amzn.to/2mZx4rF)** Ethan excels in almost every subject, except math. When it comes time to take the test, the numbers turn into some kind of alien language. His best friend, Jack, helps him to relax by playing a quick game of Mathsketball. Ethan also receives relaxation tips from his teacher, Mrs. Alexander. Will this be enough to help Ethan overcome his test anxiety? ##### **[Tapping Away My Worries](https://www.amazon.com/Tapping-Away-My-Worries-Children/dp/142514313X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1487853622&sr=1-1&keywords=tapping+away+my+worries)** **Recommended for children of all ages, parents, and teachers** [![Tapping Away My Worries](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Tapping-Away-My-Worries.jpg)](http://amzn.to/2m68oic)Tapping Away My Worries is a two part book about Emotional Freedom Techniques for children, parents, and teachers. The first part of the book is a story about a boy named Ryan who gets teased at school and how his Auntie teaches him EFT. The second part of the book is an EFT manual for parents, teachers, and caregivers to learn and use the tapping technique. ### **What are some books you recommend for [helping children overcome test anxiety?](http://www.kiddiematters.com/how-to-help-kids-overcome-test-anxiety/01)** [![Kiddie Matters](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16558823_10212683589426957_216728880_n.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Kiddie-Matters)Visit Yanique for more resources and activities at [Kiddie Matters](http://www.kiddiematters.com/), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/KiddieMatters/), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/kiddiematters/?hl=en), or her [TeachersPayTeachers Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Kiddie-Matters). ![12 Books to Help overcome Test Anxiety](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Pin-Books-for-Test-Anxiety-200x300.png) **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Class Lessons, Counseling **Tags:** book recommendations, test anxiety --- ### [College Tours: Helping Students and Parents Get the Most](https://confidentcounselors.com/college-tours/) **Published:** March 6, 2017 **Author:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials **Content:** ![Getting the Most from College Tours](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Email-College-tours-1.png)For many high school sophomores and juniors, March starts the beginning of college tours. Many high schools have spring break and March is the busy time for college students, usually between their own breaks and the hustle and bustle of final exams. It’s a great time for high schoolers to tour college campuses as they will get a real flavor for college life. The thing to remember with college tours is to approach them like going to an all-you-can-eat buffet. You want to go in hungry and leave thoroughly stuffed, and while we are talking about meals, make sure to eat in a dining hall while you’re there. Make sure to soak up everything around you. Be prepared to ask your tour guide lots of questions, and if you are not thoroughly impressed with your tour guide, make a stop to the campus center or library before you leave and don’t be afraid to look like a tourist. Ask questions of the college students that walk past you. Ask them what they like about the college or how long did it take to adjust from being away from home. Here is where you will get your honest answers. The tour is the most important part of the college search process. You can do your research on majors, expenses, activities in which to participate and average GPA, SAT, and ACT scores, but at the end of the day, the tour will tell you the most about a college. The cost of college these days is more expensive than my first home mortgage. For our graduates today, their loan payments are as much as mortgages, and you wouldn’t buy a home without walking through it or getting a home inspection, so why buy a college education without doing a walk through? ##### **On your college tours, keep these things in mind:** 1. Take a picture of the college entrance sign as the first campus picture you take. Then take as many as you can. I have had students visit 10 campuses in a week, and it can get confusing as to what you saw where. This trick will keep your memories organized. 2. Never visit your number one college first. In fact, visit a college you are not so thrilled about first. Most students and parents don’t know what to look for on their first campus visit and won’t know what to look for or what to ask. Use this first visit as an experiment. By the second visit, you’ll be surprised at how many more questions will be asked. 3. Take notes. After your visit (or while you are eating a meal in the dining hall) write down things you liked, things you didn’t, and questions you still have. 4. Make sure to visit a dorm, a lecture hall, the campus center, the gym, and a bathroom. You wouldn’t believe how many students told me that they wouldn’t be able to go to College XYZ because they wouldn’t be able to use the bathrooms. It sounds silly, but restroom facilities are a priority. 5. Find out what you can do if you and your roommate just don’t get along. Ten months is a long time if you can’t stand the person you live with. It can make or break your whole college experience. For most students, this will be the first time that they will ever have to share a bedroom, and that will be a big change. 6. Remember to have students share their college tour experiences with their school counselor. This can be helpful as students move from the college search process to the application process. 7. For parents, remember that this process is about the students. College tours are not the time to discuss cost and distance from home. 8. Have fun. Enjoy spending time together as a family. Following these simple tips can help students and their families get the most from their college tours. As their counselor, be sure to remind them that one trip to the buffet may not be enough. Sometimes we also need to get a second helping to feel full. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Food-buffet-300x120.png) ![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg)Check out more from Carol Miller, The Middle School Counselor at her [blog](http://www.themiddleschoolcounselor.com/), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/themiddleschoolcounselor/), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/themiddleschoolcounselor/?hl=en), and [TeachersPayTeachers](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor). Be sure to join her [Facebook groups](https://www.facebook.com/groups/176582632507419/) and find the support of thousands of other counselors. [![College Search Process Workbook](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/College-Search-Process-Workbook-300x228.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-College-Search-Process-Workbook-1129538)College Search Process Workbook ![Getting the Most from College Tours](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Pin-College-tours-200x300.png) **Categories:** College, Parents **Tags:** college --- ### [5 School Counseling Activities Using Tissue Boxes](https://confidentcounselors.com/tissue-boxes-in-counseling/) **Published:** March 6, 2017 **Author:** Mental Fills **Content:** ![Mental Fills on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/mental-fills.jpg)Inspired by reading [Counselor Keri](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri)’s “[Five Ways To Use Coffee Filters In School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/02/05/5-ways-use-coffee-filters-school-counseling/),” I excitedly went through my resources and office supplies to create and share 5 ways counselors can use tissue boxes in counseling. The recycled tissue boxes below can be used both as craft projects and/or therapeutic tools in groups and individual sessions. ### **Self-Esteem Magazine Collage Box** Students can create a place to store affirmations, therapeutic letters, awards, and mementos that help influence one’s sense of pride. It also serves as a nice decoration piece for your desk. This activity will take several sessions to finish but is well worth the time prompting discussion on building self-worth. **[![Self Esteem Collage Box](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Collage-1-300x300.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Magazine-Word-Cut-Outs-for-Self-Esteem-Collages-Starter-Kit-1916650)SUPPLIES** 1 empty tissue box Magazine cut outs Scissors Mod podge glue **Optional**: Paint brush **Shortcut –** [Magazine Word Cut Outs for Self-Esteem Collages: Starter Kit](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Magazine-Word-Cut-Outs-for-Self-Esteem-Collages-Starter-Kit-1916650) --- ### **The Tear Collector Box** An adorable addition to your office to help “collect” children’s tears. Simply glue eyeballs on top of a tissue box, and share the story of the tear collector’s purpose to magically take away the pain in exchange for one’s tears. For extra fun, create a second tear collector using an empty tissue box to store tear filled tissues. **![Tear Collector Tissue Box](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Tear-Collector-1-300x228.jpg)SUPPLIES** 1 full tissue box Googly eyes Glue Imagination **Optional**: Beads, 1 empty tissue box --- ### **The Game Box** Perfect place to store dice, tokens, game pieces, or task cards. Decorate the outside of the tissue box with spinners, dice dots, or ice breaker questions to use as a portable tool for therapeutic games. **![Game Box](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Game-Box3-300x300.jpg)SUPPLIES** 1 empty tissue box Glue Spinners from Dollar Tree/Dollar Store or similar **Optional**: Printed out dice dot images or questions for each side of the tissue box. (Empty inside for this play) --- ### **The Wish Box** This tissue box transforms to accept children’s dreams and wishes. This is a fun way for children to express emotions and improve their hope. Periodically collect wishes and revisit later in the year to see what wishes came true. **![Wish Box](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/wishbox-3-225x300.jpg)SUPPLIES** 1 empty tissue box Sticky notes or index cards Pencils or crayons Decorating crafts (i.e. beads, coins, stickers, wrapping paper, glitter) Glue and scissors --- ### **The Mindfulness Box** Work with children to create a space to calm their minds. Turn the tissue box on its side and fill it with crafts that appeal to the senses. Glue a calming image on the inner side of the box, and place some rocks, puffy balls, or sand inside. Once decorated, use the box to practice being mindful. **![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Mindfulness1-225x300.jpg)![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Mindfulness-4-248x300.jpg)SUPPLIES** 1 empty tissue box Rocks Puffy balls Calming picture Decorating crafts *Optional: mini chimes* ### What nontraditional supplies are you using in your counseling program? Let us know what other supplies we should be saving! ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Pin-5-Ways-Tissue-Boxes-200x300.png) **Categories:** Counsel It Yourself (CIY), Quick Activities **Tags:** counseling activities, crafts --- ### [Supporting Students with Test Anxiety](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-students-with-test-anxiety/) **Published:** March 6, 2017 **Author:** Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, Counselor Chelsey and Carol Miller Counseling Essentials and 9 more **Content:** ## ![Supporting Students with Test Anxiety](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Email-Test-Anxiety.png) It’s March already?! When did that happen? During this time of year, we inevitably see a rise in test anxiety for students and staff alike. While we cannot prevent the tests from happening, we can better prepare our students and staff to cope with these challenges. This month’s tips provide suggestions for helping students become more aware of their anxiety, ways to approach test anxiety as a school, and coping skills to manage test anxiety. You will also find that these tips come in handy for school staff at your next professional development day or faculty meeting. ### Self-Awareness of Test Anxiety > [![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor)Testing season can be stressful for everyone, especially our students who already have a tough time dealing with anxiety or self-confidence. To calm their minds and get them ready for the big test, I spend most of March teaching students an [Action Plan for Test Success](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mission-Test-Taking-Success-test-tips-test-anxiety-2400655). I find that giving students steps they can follow to prepare for the test the night before and the morning of (e.g., get a good night sleep, eat a good breakfast), really helps them to feel prepared. I also like to teach students coping skills they can use in the moment if they feel overwhelmed, such as positive self-talk, visualization and deep breathing techniques. An easy to understand plan coupled with coping skills really can help students soar on test day. [Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor) [![Mindfulness Activity](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Chelsey-Mindfulness-Activity-Cards-233x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-students-with-test-anxiety/chelsey-mindfulness-activity-cards/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Mrs-Bell-Top-Secret-Action-Plan-225x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-students-with-test-anxiety/mrs-bell-top-secret-action-plan/) > [![CounselorChelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/chelsey2.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselorchelsey)I have found that many students don’t recognize their anxiety or stress until it is severe. This makes it much harder for students to calm down. It is helpful to teach students how to recognize the stress or anxiety that they are feeling. I encourage students to consider their ***warning signs*** of stress or anxiety. Warning signs include ways their bodies look, ways their bodies feel, things they do or things they say when they are stressed or anxious. If they don’t realize they are feeling this way, they can’t do anything to fix it! Once I teach students to recognize their feelings, I use [mindfulness scripts](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mindful-Mornings-20-Guided-Meditation-Scripts-2265062) or [activities](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mindfulness-Activity-Cards-2517379) to help them manage the feelings. -Chelsey from [CounselorChelsey](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselorchelsey) > [![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor)Stress can be debilitating for students, so I like to help them look at the the symptoms of stress and then coping strategies. We also talk about [good and bad stress and how stress can either motivate us or keep us from our goals](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Managing-Your-Stress-Lesson-2530540). We also practice self talk because if we learn to get rid of the negative messages we send to ourselves, we will become more confident. – Carol Miller, [The Middle School Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Jodi-Learning-to-Manage-Stress-Brochure-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-students-with-test-anxiety/jodi-learning-to-manage-stress-brochure/) [![Managing Your Stress](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Carol-Managing-Stress-Lesson-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-students-with-test-anxiety/carol-managing-stress-lesson/) > [![The School Counselor Is In](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/theschoolcounselorisin3.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-School-Counselor-Is-In)This time of year seems to be stressful for everyone at school. Anxiety can lead to feelings of helplessness. It is important for students to understand they have the power to reduce their worries when taking tests. For my classroom lesson on this subject, I like to use [Learning To Manage Test Anxiety Brochure.](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Reducing-Test-Anxiety-Brochure-3040791) It gives nine calming strategy activities in a Bingo format for students to complete. These calming strategies include: Take time to be prepared, Do one form of exercise, Perform a deep breathing exercise, Have a cold drink, Use positive self-talk, Encourage someone else, Do something fun, Eat a healthy breakfast, and Get a good night’s sleep. By getting students actively involved, they have an opportunity to determine what strategies will work well for them to reduce test anxiety. [Jodi Mills, The School Counselor Is In](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-School-Counselor-Is-In) ### School-Wide Activities for Test Anxiety > [![Kiddie Matters](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16558823_10212683589426957_216728880_n.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Kiddie-Matters)During testing time, I would work with school staff to coordinate a test pep rally. We set up centers in the gym where teachers did hands on activities to help kids remember test taking strategies. At my center, I worked on teaching kids [strategies to overcome test anxiety](http://www.kiddiematters.com/how-to-help-kids-overcome-test-anxiety/). We worked on belly breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and various mindfulness techniques. In addition to that, I spent time in individual sessions with students exploring study skills and testing strategies that work for them. This [Study Skills Journal](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Study-Skills-Journal-For-Middle-School-Students-3039246) allows older students to take a hands on, self-directed approach to managing their test anxiety by helping them develop a study plan to prepare for the big test. – Yanique from [Kiddie Matters](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Kiddie-Matters) [![Test Taking Pencil Toppers](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Carol-Pencil-Toppers-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-students-with-test-anxiety/carol-pencil-toppers/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Yanique-Study-Skills-Journal-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-students-with-test-anxiety/yanique-study-skills-journal/) > [![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor)Our counseling office is responsible for putting together testing packs for teachers and students. A part of this is getting pencils sharpened and tests ready. I like leaving [pencil topper flags](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Test-Prep-Motivators-2530557) on each student’s pencil. They are uplifting little messages, that helps lessen stress and provide plenty of motivation. Carol from [The Middle School Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor) ### Teaching Coping Skills for Test Anxiety > [![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)](www.counselorup.com)Introduce students to guided imagery. I use a [script that I created](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Professional-Development-Test-Taking-Skills-1741939) for our end of grade test where students imagine seeing themselves walk into the school and do a great job testing. They love it! They always say, “Mrs. Atkins, why haven’t we ever done this before.” I also take them through a cheesy brain gym video from YouTube to get their brains awake. On testing day, these are both great activities that the teacher can leave with the proctor while they pick up test materials and get ready for testing. These simple activities help activate their minds and calm any anxieties before the test. – Rebecca at [Counselor Up](http://www.counselorup.com) [![RockYour Brain](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Rebecca-Rock-Your-Brain-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-students-with-test-anxiety/rebecca-rock-your-brain/) [![Testing Tips to beat test anxiety](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Testing-Tips-for-Test-Anxiety-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-students-with-test-anxiety/testing-tips-for-test-anxiety/) > [![The Counseling Teacher](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/the-counseling-teacher.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson)During testing season, I spend one class period concentrating on breathing and muscle relaxation. First, I show students how they can use Dr. Weil’s 4-7-8 breathing technique right before any test or stressful situation. It’s quick and easy to remember. [His website](https://www.drweil.com/health-wellness/body-mind-spirit/stress-anxiety/breathing-three-exercises/) has a video demonstrating the technique which is also available on youtube with a quick search. Next, I set the mood of the class by turning out the lights, turning on a small lamp, and playing spa music in the background. Using a script for Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR), I guide the students through tensing and releasing key muscles in their bodies. Students are always eager to participate and generally say it’s one of their favorite lessons that we do all year. You can find voice recorded audio of PMR on youtube, as well. These are the materials I use for my lesson including a script. (Specific test taking tips are also included.) [Stress Busters Powerpoint](http://bit.ly/2mmZbkr) – Brandy at [The Counseling Teacher](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson) ![Managing Stress](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Keri-Managing-Stress-300x300.jpg) > [![Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Counselor-Keri-.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri)As testing time approaches, I do [classroom lessons](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Managing-Test-Anxiety-Classroom-Guidance-Lesson-for-School-Counseling-2983682) with upper elementary students on relaxation strategies such as bubble breathing and Progressive Muscle Relaxation. They are always surprised by how calm their bodies feel after these activities! We also discuss how the things you give the most attention to grow (i.e. focus on your worries and they’ll grow!) and the importance of focusing on positive self-talk and strengths. With younger students, I like to make a [lap book](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Elementary-School-Counseling-Lap-Book-Test-Prep-and-Test-Taking-Skills-2655913) to review steps to take before and during the test and practice guided relaxation with [Cosmic Kids Yoga](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XAgUMTexJVs). -Keri from [Counselor Keri](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri) > ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/SchoolCounselorStephanie.png)I love to teach stress management guidance lessons during the month of March when students really feel the pressure of state testing! I use [Give Stress a Rest](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Give-Stress-a-Rest-Growth-Mindset-Guidance-Lesson-on-Stress-Management-3499614), which utilizes the strategies of muscle relaxation, growth mindset, positive self-talk and bibliotherapy to calm students. Additionally, I run stress management groups during this time, using the curriculum, [Get Your Group On](https://youthlight.com/product.php?id=3281). In these counseling support groups, the students who need more than just a Tier 1 guidance lesson receive Tier 2 intensive and frequent interventions for their stress and anxiety. – [School Counselor Stephanie](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/) [![Destress and Relaxation](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Carla-Destress-and-Relaxation-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-students-with-test-anxiety/carla-destress-and-relaxation/) [![Give Stress a rest](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Stephanie-Give-Stress-A-Rest-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-students-with-test-anxiety/stephanie-give-stress-a-rest/) > [![The DIY Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n-300x300.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor)Prior to spring testing time, I conduct classroom lessons to teach students about stress management. Students rate their stress level prior to instruction. During the lesson, students identify stressors and how the stress feels in their body. I then teach the students about destressing tools and relaxation techniques they can do while sitting in class. The students rate their stress level after doing the de-stress techniques. Making stress balls out of common materials is the ending activity for the lesson. We then discuss how to use the stress ball appropriately and the benefits of de-stressing using these simple techniques.[ De-Stress and Relaxation Workshop](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/De-Stress-Relaxation-Workshop-3036622). –[Carla, The DIY Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor) > [![The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store)I offer in-class lessons for students or programs for teachers to teach them to [manage stress and learn coping skills](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Manage-Your-Stress-and-Learn-Coping-Skills-2197109). It helps to explain that stress is what happens to your body when it is faced with demands and pressure that can make it hard to think clearly. Not all stress is bad though! Fortunately, the tools you need to calm your mind and body are always with you. Calming oneself can be as simple as breathing in and out through your nose. Breathing in through your nose activates your parasympathetic nervous system, which sends a message of peace and calm to your body. Grounding strategies are great to help calm strong emotions. When one is “grounded,” one is in the present moment and able regain a sense of safety and control. Check out [Calming Yourself and Coping with Life](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Calming-Yourself-and-Coping-with-Life-2544620). Good luck this testing season! – [The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store) [![Coping Skills Snowman](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Edukate-Coping-Skills-Snowman-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-students-with-test-anxiety/edukate-coping-skills-snowman/) [![How to Calm Yourself and Cope with Life](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Lisa-Calm-Yourself-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-students-with-test-anxiety/lisa-calm-yourself/) > [![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-150x150.png)](http://bit.ly/EduKateTPT)I begin teaching about stress and anxiety in second grade to help build a foundation of coping skills. In my classroom lessons, I define coping skills as **strategies we use to help us calm down when we experience strong feelings**. It is important for students to build up a toolbox of coping skills so they have several different strategies to help them regulate their emotions. After teaching students about various coping skills, I have them rank the coping skills by preference and compare their ranking with a partner. This helps students become more self-aware about which strategies work best for their personal needs. If you are looking for a hands-on coping skills project for your small groups or classroom lessons, check out my [Coping Skills Snowman Project](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Coping-Skills-Snowman-Project-2955931). – Kate from [EduKate and Inspire](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire) ##### Our Contributors [![The School Counselor Is In](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/theschoolcounselorisin3.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/creating-a-culture-of-kindness/theschoolcounselorisin-4/) [![The DIY Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n-150x150.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselor-advocacy/16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n/) [![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/mrs-bell-the-crafty-counselor-2/) [![Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Counselor-Keri-.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-ways-use-coffee-filters-school-counseling/counselor-keri-2/) [![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/carol-miller/) [![CounselorChelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/chelsey2.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/chelsey2/) [![Bilingual Learner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Bilingual-Learner-Icon-150x150.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/back-to-school-tips/bilingual-learner-icon/) [![The Counseling Teacher](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/the-counseling-teacher.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/the-counseling-teacher/) [![The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/creating-a-culture-of-kindness/sunny-sunshine-student-support-store/) [![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/counselor-up-2/) [![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-150x150.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/small-group-counseling-organize-and-run-successful-groups/watercolor-logo/) [![Kiddie Matters](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16558823_10212683589426957_216728880_n.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/creating-a-culture-of-kindness/16558823_10212683589426957_216728880_n/) ![Supporting Students with Test Anxiety](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Pin-Test-Anxiety-200x300.png) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Your Program **Tags:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials, CC tips, Counselor Chelsey, Counselor Keri, Counselor Up, EduKate & Inspire, Kiddie Matters, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, School Counselor Stephanie, Sunny Sunshine Store, test anxiety, The Counseling Teacher Brandy, The DIY Counselor, The School Counselor Is In --- ### [5 Effective Ways to Support Families of Students with Autism](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-families-autism/) **Published:** April 3, 2017 **Author:** Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop **Content:** Finding ways to more effectively support families of students with autism was one of the biggest sources of growth for me as a professional. I watched everyday as parents worked to access needed services, fought against limitations other people imposed on their children, and simply tried to be a good parent to their child. Over time, I found these five ways to be simple and effective strategies to support families of students with autism. # **To Support, We Must Understand** I was the site director for a summer camp for students with autism for three years. My first summer, a new coworker presented about how to support families of students with autism at the first training session. She read “[Welcome to Holland](http://www.our-kids.org/Archives/Holland.html)” by Emily Perl Kingsley. It is a poem that beautifully describes the experience a parent has coming to terms with their child’s disability. My coworker’s son was going to be attending our camp. This was her experience and the experience of our parents. I was in tears and we hadn’t even started yet. > Use “[Welcome to Holland](http://www.our-kids.org/Archives/Holland.html)” with staff to help them explain the experience of parents whose children have special needs. When you work with families, take the time to understand their unique experience. Understand that every parent conference, doctor’s appointment, or birthday party is another possible confirmation that their child’s life is not going like they had planned. The emotional drain is immense. Every parent is at a different stage, feels contradictory emotions, and needs a variation of your support. Take the time to talk to them. Many people in their lives may avoid understanding or asking questions because it is uncomfortable. # Parent and Sibling Care [![Autism and the Family](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Autism-and-the-Family-199x300.jpg)](http://amzn.to/2nALy4K)Often in schools, our support naturally gets focused on the child. An often missed component is providing that support to the families, as well. This means not only the parents, but also siblings. These families have a [higher rate of divorce](https://www.families.com/blog/divorce-rate-higher-among-couples-with-special-needs-children), report greater fatigue and stress, have increased financial burdens, and are suddenly advocates and case managers for their children. Siblings may fill caretaker roles, fight, be embarrassed, or experience bullying. [![Autism in My Family](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Autism-in-My-Family-212x300.jpg)](http://amzn.to/2nhCr5D)Consider parent workshops that focus on [self-care](http://www.laparent.com/special-needs/self-care-for-moms) and ways the family can work together. Does your school have a special education parent advisory group? There are many states with a requirement for these groups. Often you can reach out to parents in that group to make connections with struggling parents or parents of newly diagnosed children. **Always follow confidentiality rules for students with special needs.** Check out the [Sibling Support Project](https://www.siblingsupport.org/). It is a national program for the brothers and sisters of people with special health, developmental, and mental health concerns. - [Sibling Support Project](https://www.siblingsupport.org/) - [Autism in My Family: A Journal for Siblings of Children with ASD](http://amzn.to/2nhCr5D) by Sandra Tucker - [Autism and the Family](http://amzn.to/2nALy4K) by Kate E. Fiske ``` Disclosure: Links to books via Amazon Affiliates. ``` # Collaborate Parents are experts on their children. When they begin to work with school staff, they likely will approach you as the experts. It is important to not underestimate their knowledge. They are your cheat sheet. Allow them to have a say in meeting agendas or behavior plans, create a [Home School Log](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Home-School-Log.pdf), and turn a student’s bad day into a brainstorm session. > Prior to meetings, work with the parent to develop an agenda. Make sure their questions and concerns are as prominent as the schools and certainly not the last question of the meeting. Work collaboratively to fit supports to the family. There may be a wonderful program a student would benefit from, but if the parent has to take the other sibling to dance and money is tight that month, it’s not going to work. Talk over intervention fit with parents and make adjustments that work for their unique family. > Interventions are more successful when you consider a family’s unique schedules, finances, siblings, other adults, history, and parent skills. # Practice Sessions Early on when working with students with autism, I provided guided support to them during challenging situations (i.e., loud assemblies, schedule changes, unstructured recess, fire drills). This made it more likely they were included in activities and felt successful. It did not make it more likely they would develop their own skills. > Help parents create a plan for events and provide opportunities to practice challenging situations. I wanted to increase their skills, so I started doing role-playing and practice drills of typical challenging situations with students. Surprise, surprise, students were much more independent when challenging situations did occur. To support families of students with autism in a similar way, I had test runs available for school events. When there is a big school-wide Halloween party, students and parents are invited beforehand to see the site, know what food will be available, hear the music, make a plan for the event, and use a social story, such as [Monster Mash Social Story](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Monster-Mash-Social-Story.pdf). # Locate Services Parents are experts on their children. We get to be the experts on finding needed resources for school, home, and the community. Construct a community resource manual for your area to have on hand. The following sites provide invaluable information and resource locators for parents and professionals: - [National Autism Center](http://www.nationalautismcenter.org/resources/for-families/) at the May Institute - [Autism Speaks](https://www.autismspeaks.org/) Tons of resources + a tool to find resources in your area. - [Disabilityinfo.org](https://www.disabilityinfo.org/Services/): Find doctors, dentists, programs and agencies that work with children and adults with disabilities. - [Child & Family WebGuide](http://www.cfw.tufts.edu/?/category/health/1/topic/autismasperger/52/): The WebGuide is a directory of child development sites that have been systematically evaluated and approved. ### How do you support families of children with autism? What are your best practices? ***Disclosure**: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click the link and purchase the item, we will receive a small commission which helps us run the site. With that said, we only recommend items we have found useful in our own practice.* ![Support Families of Children with Autism](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Pin-5-Ways-to-Support-Families-of-Children-with-Autism.jpg "support families of students with autism") **Categories:** Parents **Tags:** autism, special education --- ### [5 School Counseling Activities Using Toilet Paper Tubes](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-ways-tp-crafts-school-counseling/) **Published:** April 3, 2017 **Author:** Laurie P Mendoza **Content:** At Confident Counselors, we love using materials we have at school or home for school counseling crafts. We’ve used [coffee filters](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/02/05/5-ways-use-coffee-filters-school-counseling/) and [tissue boxes](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/03/06/tissue-boxes-in-counseling/), and now we’ve found what to do with those empty toilet paper tubes. Writing a post on using toilet paper tubes for counseling activities required a great deal of self-restraint on my part. Do you know just how many opportunities there are to make potty puns when writing 500 words on toilet paper rolls? The answer is a LOT. Especially for a woman whose usual demographic is third grade boys. Sorry. Let’s get down to business. At school I have an entire cabinet filled with recycled items (some might say “trash”) to use for various counseling activities and projects. Toilet paper tubes are among my favorite. I use them to make superhero cuffs for my social superheroes and dragon blowers for my worry ninjas, but for this post I needed to go to Pinterest to find three more ideas. Boy, did Pinterest deliver! Who knew there were so many creative ways to use these gray cardboard gems? ### Emotions Dolls Danya Banya has a [great tutorial](https://www.danyabanya.com/diy-educational-toy-emo-dolls/) on creating **Emotion Dolls** that are perfect for helping younger kids learn to identify and express feelings. Children can choose the doll that feels the same way they feel, or use them like puppets to act out a scenario. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Emo-Dolls-Danya-Banya-300x300.jpg)](https://www.danyabanya.com/diy-educational-toy-emo-dolls/)Emo Dolls from Danya Banya ### Blowers **Blowers** help students focus their breath, so you can use them for mindfulness or self-calming lessons. Decorate them any number of ways to fit in with your theme. Kristina, from [Art of Social Work](https://kristinamarcelli.wordpress.com/), has a [simple tutorial for mindful breathing wands](https://kristinamarcelli.wordpress.com/2014/05/10/make-your-own-mindful-breathing-wand/). For my [worry ninja activity](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Worry-Ninja-Power-Cards-1104635), my group makes this [dragon blower](http://onelittleproject.com/paper-roll-dragon-craft/) from [One Little Project](http://onelittleproject.com/). [![Mindful Wands](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/mindful-wands-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-ways-tp-crafts-school-counseling/mindful-wands/) Mindful Wands from Art of Social Work [![Dragon Blowers](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/dragonblower-300x199.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-ways-tp-crafts-school-counseling/dragonblower/) Dragon Blowers from One Little Project ### Pillow Box [![Pillow Boxes](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/pillow-box.jpg)](https://www.thebalance.com/how-to-make-a-toilet-paper-roll-gift-box-1388621)Oh, the things you can do with **Pillow Boxes!** Decorate with markers, paint, [self-stick felt](http://amzn.to/2nTqHKd), [washi tape](http://amzn.to/2nTtzHc), stickers, or adhesive gems. A few examples of things to put inside: positive affirmations, a good luck charm, a small stress fidget like a relaxation stone, a picture of someone the child misses (e.g., a parent at home, someone who is in jail or the hospital, or someone who has died), notes of love or encouragement, or wishes. This tutorial from [The Balance](https://www.thebalance.com/how-to-make-a-toilet-paper-roll-gift-box-1388621) makes it easy. ### **Superhero Cuffs** ![superhero cuffs](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/cuffs.jpg)My social superheroes have been making **Superhero Cuffs,** like the ones from [Sewing in No Man’s Land](http://www.sewinginnomansland.com/2011/03/13/two-second-super-hero-cuffs/)**,** as part of their superhero costumes for three or four years. Check out [ten reasons you should use superhero themes in school counseling](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com/blog/category/superheroes). ### **Unique Butterflies** [Crafty Morning](http://www.craftymorning.com/cardboard-tube-butterfly-kids-craft/) and [Twig and Toadstool](http://twigandtoadstool.blogspot.ca/2014/04/toilet-paper-roll-butterflies.html) have perfect examples of toilet paper tube **Butterflies.** They will be a perfect craftivity when we read [Charlie the Caterpillar](http://amzn.to/2nIyx9e). You could use them with any lesson about self-esteem, uniqueness, transitions, or new beginnings. [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0671796070&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20)](https://www.amazon.com/Charlie-Caterpillar-Dom-Deluise/dp/0671796070/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&qid=1490989175&sr=8-1&keywords=charlie+the+caterpillar&linkCode=li2&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=3ba274b77b5fc665dc12d937c8a002f5) I hope you find some inspiration here for your own school counseling crafts. Let’s cross our fingers that the new tubeless toilet paper doesn’t ever catch on! ##### Other School Counseling Crafts Posts **[5 Ways to Use Coffee Filters](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/02/05/5-ways-use-coffee-filters-school-counseling/) from Counselor Keri.** **[5 Ways to Use Tissue Boxes](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/03/06/tissue-boxes-in-counseling/) from Mental Fills.** ***Disclosure**: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click the link and purchase the item, we will receive a small commission which helps us run the site. With that said, we only recommend items we have found useful in our own practice.* ![school counseling crafts: Toilet Paper Tubes](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Pin-5-Ways.jpg) **Categories:** Counsel It Yourself (CIY), Quick Activities **Tags:** counseling activities --- ### [9 Books to Help Military Children](https://confidentcounselors.com/9-books-help-military-children/) **Published:** April 3, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Keri **Content:** [![9 Books to Help Military Children](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/FB-9-Books-to-Help-Military-Children.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/9-books-help-military-children/) *Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links* April is Month of the Military Child, a time to celebrate and acknowledge the resiliency children of military service members demonstrate as well as the unique challenges they face and overcome. Over [1.82 million children](https://www.defense.gov/News/Special-Reports/0416_militarychild) have at least one parent in the military. These children face a unique set of challenges, from deployments and homecomings to moving across the country or world. The Military Child Education Coalition estimates that military children [move 6-9 times](http://www.militarychild.org/about-us) during their K-12 education, facing multiple deployments during that time. Oftentimes, these children and their families are geographically separated from extended family members and therefore rely on the supports provided both by the military community and the education system where they are enrolled. In this post, I’ll highlight 3 unique challenges military children face and 9 books to use in counseling to invite discussion. ## **Deployment for Military Children** Military deployments are typically a [3-stage event](http://www.militaryonesource.mil/deployment-and-transition/preparing-for-deployment?content_id=281369), including the pre-deployment time, the actual deployment, and the post-deployment reintegration process. Counselors may see an [increase in behavioral issues](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3312898/#B1) in the time leading up to deployment as well as a wide range of emotional responses, including [depression, externalizing behaviors](http://www.jaacap.com/article/S0890-8567(10)00077-8/abstract) and [anxiety](http://www.med.navy.mil/sites/nmcsd/nccosc/families/Pages/resourcesForChildren/childrenAndTheStressOfDeployment.aspx), in their students throughout the deployment. The following 5 books are excellent counseling library additions to open conversations about this difficult time and help students begin to process their emotional responses. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![A Paper Hug](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/A-paper-hug-300x300.jpg) #### [A Paper Hug](http://amzn.to/2oaANr9) *by Stephanie Skolmoski* This book is perfect for students who are preparing for a parent to deploy. Students will read about a boy who finds the perfect gift to give his father before he leaves for deployment. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![Where Do The Tears Go?](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Where-Do-the-Tears-Go-234x300.jpg) #### [Where do the Tears Go? ](http://amzn.to/2Fy5con) *by Doris Burd* When your mom or dad is deployed, sadness and fear are normal and acceptable feelings. The author invites readers to believe that the tears shed in these situations have a magical purpose and encourages discussion of the pain children might be experiencing by reminding them that others around them feel the pain as well. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![I Am Red, White, & Blue ... Are You Feeling It Too?](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/I-am-red-white-blue-300x300.jpg) #### [I am Red, White, and Blue… Are You Feeling it Too?](http://amzn.to/2p7xoYf) *by Deanna Lynn Cole* In this story, children explore their feelings through color. They are reminded that talking about the range of emotions they feel during a parent’s deployment as a healthy way to manage their experiences. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![Lily Hates Goodbyes](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Lily-Hates-Goodbyes-300x300.jpg) #### [Lily Hates Goodbyes](http://amzn.to/2FJypjn) *by Jerilyn Marler* When Lily’s dad is gone, she feels angry, sad, confused, and sometimes even stubborn. She soon realizes that all of these emotions are okay, and even her mom feels those emotions too. She figures out that she has a safe place to experience her feelings and discovers some strategies for managing these big feelings. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![When Your Dad Goes to War](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/When-Your-Dad-Goes-to-War-210x300.jpg) #### [When Your Dad Goes to War: Helping Children Cope with Deployment and Beyond](http://amzn.to/2Gl0pbe) *by Maryann Makekau* In this solution-focused book, children see themselvesas team members who play an important role in the deployment process. The author provides practical steps for children to cope with a parent’s deployment and planning for his or her return. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## **Homecoming for Military Children** Homecoming is the long-awaited reunification of the military family after a deployment. Counselors may observe feelings of [excitement and anticipation](http://militarykidsconnect.dcoe.mil/parents/coping/behaviors#school-age-children) in students, as well as feelings of [worry and reluctance](http://militarykidsconnect.dcoe.mil/parents/coping/behaviors#school-age-children) as students anticipate changes to established routines. The following two books address the worries a student might have as they wait for their deployed parents to return. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] #### [![But ... What If?](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/But-What-if-300x300.jpg)But … What If?](http://amzn.to/2HpuTYL) *by Sandra Miller Linhart* Homecomings are often – and for good reason – painted in a celebratory light. In this book, however, the author highlights some of the worries children might experience and be hesitant to voice as deployments come to an end. This is a great book to begin exploring feelings and expectations as homecoming day approaches. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![My Red Balloon](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/My-Red-Ballon-240x300.jpg) #### [My Red Balloon](http://amzn.to/2FAkMjm) *by Eve Bunting* Bobby has long awaited the day his father will return home from his deployment. As he joins the other waiting families to welcome home his father’s ship, he loses his grip on the red balloon he brought to help his father find him in the crowd. This book highlights the chaos of a homecoming day and acknowledges the fear that some children might harness about their returning parent’s ability to find them! \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## **Permanent Change of Station (PCS) Moves** Military service members receive orders to move on average every 2-4 years. Sometimes, this results in children moving during the middle of the school year. Relocating military children have an increased chance of developing [mental health issues](http://www.cfah.org/hbns/2014/moves-take-a-toll-on-kids-mental-health) due to [challenges in adapting to new environments, making new friends, and family stress](http://tpcjournal.nbcc.org/revolving-doors-the-impact-of-multiple-school-transitions-on-military-children/). The two books included below can help counselors support students during these changes. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![I Like Where I Am](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/I-like-where-I-am-240x300.jpg) #### [I Like Where I Am](http://amzn.to/2GisSOA) *by Jessica Harper* Moving is a part of life for military families. This book highlights the reluctance and denial children experience when they have to move away from familiar places and people and assimilate into a new community. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![Alexander Who's Not (Do you hear me, I mean it!) Going to Move](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Alexander-300x233.jpg) #### [Alexander Who’s Not (Do You Hear Me? I Mean It!) Going to Move ](http://amzn.to/2FArUwb) *by Judith Viorst* A familiar character, Alexander, faces with a new challenge: moving 1000 miles away. Judith Viorst honors what is important to kids when they move: friends, neighbors, and comfortable experiences they are leaving behind. Alexander’s parents allow him the space to come to terms with the move in his own time. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] While stressors relating to deployments, homecomings, and PCS moves can result in negative outcomes for military children, [supportive relationships are protective factors](http://tpcjournal.nbcc.org/revolving-doors-the-impact-of-multiple-school-transitions-on-military-children/) for this community. School counselors have the unique position to help military students anticipate, process, and react to these challenges and create positive outcomes. ***Disclosure**: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click the link and purchase the item, we will receive a small commission that helps us run the site. With that said, we only recommend items we have found useful in our own practice.* [![9 Books to Help Military Families](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Pin-9-Books-to-Help-Military-Children.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/9-books-help-military-children/) **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Your Program **Tags:** book recommendations, military --- ### [Suicide Prevention Apps](https://confidentcounselors.com/suicide-prevention-apps/) **Published:** April 3, 2017 **Author:** Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor **Content:** ***(Disclaimer: Apps cannot replace professional help and support. If you are concerned someone is in danger, reach out for professional help immediately and notify the child’s parent or guardian.)*** We have the capability to connect to anyone in an instant yet many are feeling more alone and isolated than ever. Social media can have a negative impact on kids who are already dealing with low self-esteem and trauma due to continually comparing themselves to other people’s “highlight reel” that they craft to perfection and choose for the rest of the world to see. It can give the impression that everyone else lives much more glamorous and carefree lives than our own. The endless cycle of sharing and comparing leads to countless possibilities of cyberbullying. Almost [every app and social media outlet](http://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/2017/02/dangerous-dozen-12-apps-all-parents.html) have the capacity to lead to cyberbullying. Kids can be constantly bombarded with harassment 24-hours a day, even from the safety of their home or bedroom. Negative self image and cyberbullying could increase the likelihood of self-harm or suicide. If you have a student who is displaying signs of self-harm or has expressed suicidal ideations, do not take it lightly. Some students will not reach out for help in person. Here are six free apps that you can provide to students and parents so they can reach out for help and feel supported in a way they feel most comfortable. --- ##### MY3[![MY3app](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/my-3-150x150.png)](http://my3app.org/) *(Available for [Apple](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my3-suicide-lifeline/id709651264?mt=8) and [Android](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.nerdery.my3) Devices)* MY3 allows users to create a network of people they can reach out to when they are having thoughts of suicide and to create a plan to stay safe. Encourage students to choose 3 adults to help when they need it the most. ##### Stay Alive[![Stay Alive App](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Stay-Alive-150x150.png)](http://www.prevent-suicide.org.uk/stay_alive_suicide_prevention_mobile_phone_application.html) *(Available for [Apple](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/stay-alive/id915458967) and [Android](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=uk.org.suicideprevention.stayalive) Devices)* Stay Alive is full of information and resources for people struggling with thoughts of suicide. It allows users to find help, identify signs of suicide and resources to understand suicide better. It includes a safety plan and a life box where users can store information and photos that are important to them. Great tool for parents of children with suicidal ideation. ##### HELP Prevent Suicide[![Help Prevent Suicide](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Help-Prevent-Suicide-150x150.png)](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/help-prevent-suicide/id791283546?mt=8) *(Available for [Apple](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/help-prevent-suicide/id791283546?mt=8))* HELP lists warning signs and provides information on how to talk to a person who may be suicidal. It also provides national and Oklahoma specific resources that users can reach out to for additional help. ##### Suicide Safer Home[![Suicide Safer Home](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Suicide-Safer-Home-150x150.png)](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/suicide-safer-home/id911530570?mt=8) *(Available for [Apple](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/suicide-safer-home/id911530570?mt=8))* Suicide Safer Home provides support for families of people at risk for suicide. It offers tips on how to be aware of warning signs, how to take action and risk factors to be aware of. ##### Virtual Hope Box[![Virtual Hope Box](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Virtual-Hope-Box-Logo-150x150.png)](http://t2health.dcoe.mil/apps/virtual-hope-box) *(Available for [Apple](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/virtual-hope-box/id825099621?mt=8) or [Android](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.t2.vhb&hl=en))* Virtual Hope Box is designed as an accessory to treatment to remind people struggling with mental health or suicidal ideations all the positive things they have in their lives. It provides tools for coping, relaxing, and positive thinking to help them create a positive environment for themselves. --- Technology helps us to reach students we may otherwise lose if we were to provide them with only the traditional methods of support: [National Suicide Prevention Lifeline](https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/) Phone Number: 1-800-273-8255 [Online Chat](http://chat.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/GetHelp/LifelineChat.aspx) Remember, if you suspect someone may be struggling with self-harm or suicidal ideation, reach out for help as soon as possible. Suicide prevention takes everyone. ![Suicide Prevention Apps](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/pin-Suicide-Prevention-Apps-1-200x300.jpg) **Categories:** Crisis Response **Tags:** suicide prevention --- ### [Suicide Prevention Best Practices](https://confidentcounselors.com/suicide-prevention-best-practices/) **Published:** April 3, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Up, Carol Miller Counseling Essentials and Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop and 6 more **Content:** We all want to say that we are great at what we do. I believe we all do our best job. But, no matter what our experience level is, situations arise and we question ourselves: Did I follow best practice? Did I do everything I could? Am I missing something? Do I know what I’m doing? Suicide prevention is often one of those areas that leave us with these thoughts. It is a sensitive and delicate situation. We need to be knowledgeable and have an action plan in place. Rather than give you tips this month, we thought it would be best to provide you with resources to help navigate through these challenging situations. Below, the team of Confident Counselors shares their best resource suggestions for suicide prevention. ``` When you have students in danger of self-harm, it is essential to have an evidence based plan implemented by a trained team. The following suggestions do not replace training or school policies, but can be used by a school crisis team to ensure the correct systems are in place. ``` > [![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)](http://www.counselorup.com)The American School Counselor Association specifically speaks to suicide prevention in the “Serious or Foreseeable Harm to Self or Others” section of the 2016 [ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/Ethics/EthicalStandards2016.pdf). I recommend using these standards as an advocacy tool for your role in suicide prevention and as a reference when you have a question about best practice. ~ Rebecca at [Counselor Up](http://www.counselorup.com/) --- > [![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg)](http://bit.ly/290jQIg)The [Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale](http://cssrs.columbia.edu/the-columbia-scale-c-ssrs/cssrs-for-communities-and-healthcare/#filter=.general-use.english) is a well known scale and used as a screener for at people at risk. Part of the [Lighthouse Project](http://cssrs.columbia.edu/), the CSSR is the most evidence based screener being used today. It’s simple and easy to use with free video trainings you can do on their website. We use this screener as part of our school’s crisis plan. You should not, however, use a screener if your school does not have an intervention plan to go along with it, and despite the level of risk, parents should be notified. > > [SAMSHA ](https://www.samhsa.gov/)-Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration- is a government website devoted to providing resources on prevention and treatment of mental health and substance abuse issues, as well as providing information about different hotline numbers available to individuals in crisis. In addition, you can download their [free apps](http://www.store.samhsa.gov/apps/?utm_source=samhsahomebtmbanner&utm_medium=banner&utm_campaign=apps) to your phones or ipads > > [NIH ](https://www.nih.gov/)-National Institutes of Health has some great information about signs and symptoms, risk factors and ideas to help those in emotional pain. > > To understand best practices and to help your school implement its own suicide prevention policies, I recommend taking the ASCA certification course, [Mental Health Specialist](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/school-counselors-members/professional-development/asca-u-specialist-trainings/mental-health-specialist). There is a fee for this course ($99 ASCA members/ $249 non-members) and you can earn 5 CEUs/50 Contact Hours. > > Carol @ [The Middle School Counselor](http://www.themiddleschoolcounselor.com) --- > [![Social Emotional Workshop on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/logo-e1467020698143.png)](http://bit.ly/299xEwC)Suicide prevention in schools should be a team effort and not fall to any one staff member. The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) has an in-depth resource, [Preventing Youth Suicide](https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources/school-safety-and-crisis/preventing-youth-suicide), that is a great starting point. I recommend using the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s [A Model School Policy on Suicide Prevention](https://afsp.org/our-work/education/model-school-policy-suicide-prevention/). This resources is the collaborative work of NASP and ASCA, is evidence-based, designed for schools, and focuses on a team response. – Laura @ [Social Emotional Workshop](http://socialemotionalworkshop.com/) --- > [![Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Counselor-Keri-.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri)The Cornell Research Program on Self Injury and Recovery has a [helpful resource](http://www.selfinjury.bctr.cornell.edu/documents/schools.pdf) for school personnel to aid in the development of protocol for dealing with instances non-suicidal self-injury. – Keri @ [Counselor Keri](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri) --- > [![The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store)The [School Mental Health Project, UCLA Center for Mental Health in Schools](http://smhp.psych.ucla.edu/) has a wealth of resources to support student mental health. I find this practice resource helpful when working with students who have possible suicidal thoughts: [Suicidal Crisis ](http://smhp.psych.ucla.edu/pdfdocs/practicenotes/suicide.pdf)–[The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store) --- > [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/round-logo-solid-black-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson)Knowledge is power. [The Jason Foundation](http://jasonfoundation.com/) is dedicated to raising awareness of youth suicide. [Jason Flatt](http://jasonfoundation.com/about-us/jasons-story/) was a young man who told many friends that he was going to kill himself. Tragically, nothing was done about it. His family decided to start this non-profit organization in his memory. The Jason Flatt Act is law in 19 states, mandating educators to complete 2 hours of youth suicide awareness and prevention training each year in order to be able to be licensed to teach. With a simple online request, they will send you free lesson plans, DVD’s with a powerful video of scenarios, powerpoint presentations on a CD, and cards with a 24 hour 1-800 number to hand out to all students after the lesson. Free professional development resources for teachers is also provided. ~ [Brandy @ The Counseling Teacher](http://thecounselingteacher.blogspot.com/2017/03/lets-talk-about-suicide.html) --- > [![Mental Fills on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/mental-fills.jpg)](http://bit.ly/1WUNdhW)The [National Alliance of Mental Illness](http://www.nami.org/) (NAMI) is an excellent resource for skills training and support. They offer a wealth of free programs including: > > - a Helpline (M-F 10am-6pm ET) at 1-800-950-NAMI or text “NAMI” to 741741 > - in person and online monitored support groups, such as [Ok2Talk](http://ok2talk.org/), > - educational classes and school personnel presentations, > - downloadable fact sheets and mental health posters, such as “[Want to Know How to Help a Friend? A Student Guide to Mental Health](http://www.nami.org/NAMI/media/NAMI-Media/Infographics/NAMI-Want-to-know-how-to-help-a-friend.pdf).” > > [Mental Fills](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mental-Fills) --- > [![CounselorChelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/CounselorChesleyRound-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselorchelsey)The [SOS (Signs Of Suicide) Program](https://mentalhealthscreening.org/programs/youth) through [Screening for Mental Health](https://mentalhealthscreening.org/) offers a FREE [online gatekeeper training](https://mentalhealthscreening.org/gatekeeper) for middle school and high school staff. This 90 minute training provides information about mental illness, risk and protective factors for suicide, and ways to recognize and respond to warning signs of suicide and self injury. [CounselorChelsey](http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/CounselorChelsey) --- > [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/SchoolCounselorStephanie.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counselor-Stephanie?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Store%20link)Dr. Carolyn Stone, ASCA Ethics Chair and a leading legal consultant for school counseling nationwide, weighs in on legal liability issues for school counselors involved in crisis with this super informative ASCA School Counselor magazine article: [Suicide Contracts, Assessments and Parental/Guardian Notification: Err on the Side of Caution.](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/magazine/blogs/november-december-2013/suicide-contracts,-assessments-and-parental-guardi) > > From [School Counselor Stephanie](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/2017/03/06/crisis-intervention-and-suicide-prevention-resources/) ![Suicide Prevention Best Practices](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/pin-Suicide-Prevention.png) **Categories:** Crisis Response **Tags:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials, Counselor Chelsey, Counselor Keri, Counselor Up, Mental Fills, School Counselor Stephanie, Social Emotional Workshop, suicide prevention, Sunny Sunshine Store, The Counseling Teacher Brandy --- ### [5 School Counseling Activities Using Rocks](https://confidentcounselors.com/free-counseling-activities-rocks/) **Published:** May 8, 2017 **Author:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials **Content:** I admit I have always had a thing for rocks. I have collected my share over the years, and each time I go someplace new, I look for one to bring home. You can find them on bookshelves or windowsills in my home, each one dated with the location of where it was found. But what on earth, do rocks have to do with school counseling? Rocks hold a sort of magical touch. Their sizes and shapes appeal to students and adults alike and I have found a few ways to add these into my counseling program. Best of all, rocks are FREE. When you have a $0 budget like I do, free goes a long way. Here are 5 ways to use rocks in your school counseling program. ### Story Stones ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/StoryStones-300x224.png)With a little imagination, a few [paint markers](http://amzn.to/2peIUUv) (and I used a top coat shellac spray I found at a craft store), students can paint different images on several rocks. I have had students draw on a few and tell me about themselves using the pictures on the rocks. An example might be a turtle drawing with a response of “I did my endangered animal project on the sea turtle because I saw one at an aquarium once and thought it was cool.” You can also use them to describe feelings or tell an important story. ### You Rock! ***![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/You-Rock-Stones-300x224.png)Materials needed***: [Acrylic paint](http://amzn.to/2q0lfV9), [feather boas](http://amzn.to/2pYiB4m) for hair, [googly eyes](http://amzn.to/2qjMBZq), markers, paint brushes, and small gems Discuss with students the support systems they have. Have each student describe the person that supports them and is their ***rock*** in difficult times. Allow students to talk about the qualities they think a good support person would have. After students describe a person in their lives who they think ***rocks*** and always supports them, have them decorate a rock to give to their ***rock***. ### Ice Breakers ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Ice-Breaker-Stones-300x242.png)Write questions on rocks using paint markers and pass out to students. These are a great alternative to paper that is sure to get their attention. Kids love to hold the rocks in their hands as they answer the questions. The rocks were used with the “You Rock” project. They were a great way to ask students questions that got them thinking and talking. ### Zen Garden ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/ZenGarden-Stones-300x237.png)This zen rock garden from Resilient Minds uses premade stones. Put a little sand in a bowl or tray and add some rocks. You can draw emotions on each rock and use them within a counseling session. Students can arrange them, push them into the sand to hide, and use the rocks as a way to talk about their feelings in situations that are happening in their lives. The zen garden provides a safe place to talk about emotions and cycles of emotions. ### Positive Thinking Stones ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Positive-Thinking-Stones-300x200.png)These are cheerful reminders that life is good. This can be a great community service project for kids. Just add some paint and paint pens, and students can write affirmations on rocks and leave them in flower beds, window sills, classrooms, or pass out to classmates as reminders there is good in the world. [Thinking IQ](http://thinkingiq.com/2012/03/think-stones.html) made these Think Stones to share positive messages. How can you use rocks in counseling? What special power do they have in your counseling program? Leave a comment below and let us know! ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Pin-5-Ways-2.jpg) **Categories:** Counsel It Yourself (CIY), Popular Posts, Quick Activities **Tags:** counseling activities, free resources --- ### [Creating a School Counseling Needs Assessment Using Google Forms](https://confidentcounselors.com/creating-a-school-counseling-needs-assessment-using-google-forms/) **Published:** May 9, 2017 **Author:** EduKate & Inspire **Content:** As the end of the school year draws near, it is time to begin planning ahead for next school year. One essential end of the year task is conducting a school counseling needs assessment with your staff. Needs assessments allow you to easily gather data on the strengths and weaknesses of your services and programming. Data from the needs assessment can then be analyzed and used to drive the planning process for next school year. ## **Why Use a Google Form?** Using a Google Form to create a school counseling needs assessment makes the data collection process simple and paper-free. It also allows you to easily analyze the data you collect because it automatically creates charts and graphs. Further, all data is compiled in a Google Spreadsheet, which makes it easy to sort through your data and look for trends. Check out a sample school counseling needs assessment by clicking on the image below. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/view-1024x816.png)](http://bit.ly/CCCassessment) ## **Where to Begin** School counseling programs are comprehensive! It can be overwhelming to begin to create your needs assessment because there are so many questions that can be asked. Begin by thinking about which areas you would like to target in your needs assessment. Did you try something new this year? Ask for feedback about it! Your needs assessment should vary each school year; it is not necessary to ask the same questions year after year. Here are some areas you may want to target: 1. School-wide programming 2. Classroom lessons 3. Small groups 4. Communication/collaboration with staff members 5. Parent programming ## **10 Steps to Create a Needs Assessment** 1. Go to Google Drive. 2. Click on “New” → More → Google Forms 3. Give your form a title. 4. In the “form description” box, write a short summary of your needs assessment and thank your staff for participating. Don’t forget to give your staff a submission due date. 5. Begin adding your questions to your Form. There are a variety of question types–multiple choice, checkboxes, short answers, and more. The best way to learn how to create a Form is to simply play around with the options. 6. After adding your questions, click on the color palette at the top of the page to give your Form a theme. Hint: Click on the mountain image in the bottom right-hand corner to choose from a variety of themes. 7. Check your form for spelling and grammar. 8. Click on the eye at the top of the page to preview your form. If everything looks ok, you are ready to send your form! 9. Click on the send button in the top right corner and decide how you want to send the form to your staff members. You can email the form to them directly or click on the chainlink image to grab the link for your survey. This link can be inserted into an email telling your staff about the survey. 10. Wait patiently for the needs assessment data! ## **Customizable Needs Assessment** Looking to save some time? Here is a sample needs assessment that is great for a beginning school counselor–simply customize it to meet your needs! This assessment will provide data about the overall effectiveness of your school counseling program. You can easily customize this Google Form with questions that are specific to your services and programming. When you click the image below, it will automatically make a copy of the form and save it in your Google Drive. Then, you can edit the form to meet your needs. ***Tip***: Start by clicking on the eye at the top of the form to preview it and see which areas you need to edit. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/customize-1024x683.png)](http://bit.ly/CCCcopyform) ## Analyze Your Data The beauty of a Google Form is that it automatically compiles your data into charts and graphs. Simply go back to your form in Google Drive, click on Responses, and check out all of your data. Depending on the type of question you asked, you may get a bar graph, a pie chart, or a list of written responses. Here are a few screenshots of some of that data I received after sending out a needs assessment as a first-year counselor. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/1-1024x563.png)![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/2-1024x657.png)![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/3-1024x478.png)![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/4-1024x548.png)As a new counselor, the feedback above was invaluable! It helped me to see the strengths and weaknesses of my programming and get valuable feedback from my staff. WARNING! Needs assessments do not result in only positive results–be prepared to get some tough feedback. Choose to use a growth mindset and look at the feedback as a way to improve, instead of as a criticism of your programming. ***Tip***: If you want to dive even further into your data, click on the little green button that looks like a flag. It will take you into Google Sheets and show you a spreadsheet for all of your results. You can sort this data, look for trends, and calculate averages–the sky’s the limit! ## Share Your Data You’ve done the work of creating a needs assessment, you’ve analyzed your data, now what? A final important step is to share your results with stakeholders. Google Forms allows you to print and download your results; however, the formatting is a bit wonky. I find it easiest to screenshot the data that I want to share and then paste the screenshots into a Google Doc or PowerPoint presentation. For example, as a first year counselor, I wanted to get feedback from each grade level about the topics they felt were important for classroom lessons. I included a question in my Google Form that required staff members to scale the level of importance (from 1-5) for a variety of classroom lesson topics. After the results came in, I went to my Google Spreadsheet and sorted that question by grade level. I was then able to see each grade level’s responses and create custom graphs for each level. I screenshot each graph and compiled them in a Google Doc to share at a building leadership meeting. Not only did this data help drive my planning for the following school year, but it also helped my staff see our main areas of need for each grade level. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/5-1024x547.png) I hope that this post has helped you to see the importance and value of creating a school counseling needs assessment! If you are interested in learning more about how I use Google Docs in school counseling, check out [this post](http://bit.ly/Docs4SC) on my blog! ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Pin-Needs-Assessment-Google-Forms.png) **Categories:** Data **Tags:** data, needs assessment, technology --- ### [The Importance of Self-Care](https://confidentcounselors.com/importance-practicing-self-care/) **Published:** May 8, 2017 **Author:** Kiddie Matters **Content:** Do you practice regular self-care? Many counselors preach self-care to others but often fail to follow their own advice. According to the American Counseling Association, the term self-care refers to “the activities and practices that are engaged in on a regular basis to maintain and enhance a person’s health and well-being.” When counselors don’t practice regular self-care, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with stress and eventually burnout. This is why it’s important to have a self-care plan in place. Our lives can get hectic at times with deadlines, meetings, and unforeseen crises. We become obsessed with crossing off tasks on our to-do lists and lose sight of everything else. When we feel overwhelmed, self-care is usually the first thing to go out the window. Somehow taking time out to tend to our needs becomes a luxury and we feel guilty even thinking about taking time out for ourselves. ## **Self-Care Assessment** When you’re in the thick of things, you might not notice that you’re neglecting your needs. You become hyper-focused on completing a task and lose yourself in your work. The following are some questions [*Psychology Today*](https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/living-the-questions/201504/your-ultimate-self-care-assessment-resources) suggests you ask yourself to help determine if you’re making your well-being a priority: 1. Are you able to take time for yourself without feeling guilty? 2. Do you believe you deserve self-care? 3. Do you know the difference between self-care and self-indulgence? 4. Do you realize self-care does not equal weakness? 5. Are you OK with slowing down sometimes? 6. Do you have a go-to list of activities? 7. Do you make leisure time a priority? 8. Have you made self-care a habit? 9. Do you have a basic self-care plan, preferably in writing? As you answer these questions, be gentle with yourself. Try not to judge your answers and just become aware of where you’re at with your needs. For a more thorough assessment, you can complete this [Self-Care Assessment Worksheet](http://www.mentoring.org/new-site/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/MARCH_2015_Self_Care_Assessment.pdf) ## **Self-Care Activities to Restore Balance** The [American Counseling Association](https://www.counseling.org/) suggests that your personal plan should cater to the whole self and include activities from physical, cognitive, emotional, and spiritual domains. Here are some examples from each domain: ### **Physical Health Self-Care Activities** - Maintain a healthy, nutritious diet - Engage in regular exercise (consult physician before starting an exercise program} - Drink plenty of water - Get enough sleep - Practice yoga - Get a massage - Reduce stressors in your life (i.e. practice time management, learn to say ‘NO’) ### **Cognitive Self-Care Activities** - Meditation - Journaling - Mindfulness Practice - Reading for leisure - Practice the [Zentangle Method](https://www.zentangle.com/zentangle-method) - Create Mandalas - Become aware of your self-talk ### **Emotional Self-Care Activities** - Practice honoring and respecting your feelings - Share your feelings with others - Laugh (Don’t take yourself too seriously) - Practice being in the present moment - Deep breathing - Create a gratitude journal - Practice self-compassion - Participate in activities you enjoy (i.e. cooking, knitting, scrapbooking, hiking, jogging, walking, etc.) - Reach out to others for support - Set positive boundaries ### **Spiritual Self-Care Activities** - ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Depositphotos_21493437_m-2015-300x300.jpg)Spend time admiring the beauty in nature - Watch a sunrise or sunset - Read spiritual texts - Listen to spiritual music - Connect with a spiritual community - Plant and tend to a garden In order to effectively help others, it’s important to make sure that you are in a good place physically, emotionally, cognitively, and spiritually. This isn’t a luxury and you should not feel guilty about taking time for yourself. You deserve to be happy, healthy, and at peace. There’s nothing wrong with making yourself a priority. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Pin-Self-Care.jpg) **Categories:** Self Care **Tags:** self care --- ### [Confident Counselors is Turning One!](https://confidentcounselors.com/confident-counselors-blog-one-year-and-taking-it-up-a-level/) **Published:** July 11, 2017 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** [![Social Emotional Workshop](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Logo2017-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop)Say Happy Birthday to the Confident Counselors Newsletter! Almost a year ago Confident Counselors began. It started with me chattering on about how being the only person in your school doing your job is a uniquely challenging, to say the least. There is no one in my building to share resources with or ask for advice. Do I really have to go to the professional development sessions on the new math curriculum? My supervisor has a teaching degree in English. If one more teacher insinuates that all I do is play games with kids. Oh, the teachers got an entirely new writing curriculum, and I have to create all my materials for my an entire building. Feeling confident yet? Ugh. All I wanted was to make those negative thoughts go away for people like me and replace that with beaming confidence. I reached out to my (better than real life) friends from school counseling Facebook groups. The little idea grew and grew in excited, passionate chats. Within a few months, [more than 20 of us ](https://confidentcounselors.com/counselor-stores/)committed to collaborating on a monthly newsletter that we hoped would begin to fill the gaps we saw and felt. We wanted to provide real life advice, counselor tested products, best practice resources, links to quality professional development sessions, and humor where we could find it. We wanted to help people feel confident that they too were amazing, essential professionals in a school building. Now, we have to own that confident label and take it up a level. You all were so kind and enthusiastic about our content this past year, we want to put out more of it. This year, we will be moving our newsletter into a regular blog. Here’s what you can expect: - **2-3 blog posts per week** - **A monthly email/newsletter with the most popular posts, recommended resources, and confident musings.** - **Giveaways and exclusive freebies** Over the next month, we will be doing giveaways for our email subscribers. If you are on our list, keep a lookout on Facebook, Instagram, or your inbox to see if you won. Look for ways to get extra entries. We are so excited about being a valued resources for you during this next year. Be **\#aconfidentcounselor**. \[su\_spacer\] ![Confident Counselors Blog](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Intro-Pin.png) ## Our 5 most popular posts of 2017 - [Ultimate School Counselor Supply List](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/08/16/school-counselor-office-essentials/) - [Creating a School Counseling Needs Assessment Using Google Forms by EduKate&Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/05/09/creating-a-school-counseling-needs-assessment-using-google-forms/) - [5 Ways to Use Coffee Filters in School Counseling by Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/02/05/5-ways-use-coffee-filters-school-counseling/) - [10 Back to School Tips for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/08/16/back-to-school-tips/) - [5 Ways to Use Rocks in School Counseling by Carol Miller, the Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/05/08/free-counseling-activities-rocks/) **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** confident counselors --- ### [An Honest Review of SCUTA Pro for Tracking School Counseling Time](https://confidentcounselors.com/an-honest-review-of-scuta-pro-for-tracking-school-counseling-time/) **Published:** July 18, 2017 **Author:** The Counseling Teacher Brandy **Content:** “Tracking school counseling time is my favorite task,” said no counselor ever. (especially not [The Counseling Teacher](http://thecounselingteacher.blogspot.com/)!) I have to admit that keeping a time usage log makes me cringe. From phone calls and emails, to every conversation in the hallway, we are always working towards meeting the recommended time usage percentages posted by the American School Counseling Association (ASCA). When I think of all of the things I could accomplish instead of this tedious task, I squirm. Then I remind myself that this is not about me. This is about the students. This is about providing a data driven, research based, school counseling program for my amazing community. After struggling with spending too much time with various data collection methods, I knew that our current method wasn’t working. Then one fine day, my fellow counselor, Mrs. Carla Christian and I stumbled upon a little gem called [SCUTA Pro](https://www.scutapro.com/). To make it even sweeter, we were able to secure a grant to cover the yearly fee. And we were off. First things first, we do not get any financial gain from SCUTA Pro for this review. We’ve been using it for 2 years for tracking school counseling time and have no complaints. I really wanted to share our journey because it has helped us so much and I hope it will help others as well. Overall, it has been a user-friendly way to analyze the effectiveness of our program. # Top 3 Reasons We Continue to Choose SCUTA Pro for Tracking School Counseling Time ## **Time Savings** The website is very easy to navigate. Whenever we couldn’t figure something out, we were able to get assistance right away through an email to customer service. Sometimes the owner would email OR CALL us to make sure that we were comfortable with the program. My favorite feature that came out our second year of use is the “repeat” option that allows me to easily fill in a recurring activity that I do on a regular basis. When entering data, categories are already filled so that you can easily choose from a drop down menu without typing it out. Finally, my counseling supervisor can look up my data in real time without asking me to send in a report. ## **ASCA Categories** The first thing that drew us to SCUTA was the fact that it followed the ASCA National Model recommendations. The time categories come straight from ASCA. Carla and I are sure that our SCUTA reports were critical in helping us prepare for and obtain RAMP certification for our middle school. After winning RAMP, our district decided to pick up the tab on our SCUTA fees and provide the service to all of the schools in our district. ## **Detailed Reports** Colorful, visual graphs help us keep track of percentages for our use of time based on ASCA recommendations. With a quick glance at the colors on the calendar pages, it’s pretty clear instantly if we are making our goals. We use this data to self-reflect and plan our time in a way that helps us maximize the effectiveness of our program. We also use these reports to share our progress with stakeholders. I can look up by student name or type of activity. I can also choose a time period which is helpful when I’m analyzing each quarter. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Screen-Shot-2017-06-20-at-2.31.14-PM-1024x346.png)Week at a Glance Calendar View # Advice for First Time Users One thing I learned from the first two years of using [SCUTA Pro](https://www.scutapro.com/) is that it would be a good idea to spend some time reading over the categories and subcategories and deciding how to best label certain activities. For instance, some duties that may seem like non-counseling related tasks are actually counseling tasks. If you look at how you perform your daily duties, you could easily turn meaningless tasks into meaningFUL tasks. For instance, early morning car duty could be used as a time when you warmly greet families which falls under the PBIS counseling task. Finally, I love how the owners are continually getting feedback from counselors to keep the program up to date and as helpful as possible. I’m excited to see next year’s version. I know they are constantly improving and making time-saving additions. If you still have questions, you can leave a comment or contact me directly. ![This is an honest review of SCUTA Pro and three reasons why we use it for tracking school counseling time to evaluate our school counseling program.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/cccPins-1-e1498056958719.jpg) **Categories:** Data **Tags:** school counseling program, setting goals, technology --- ### [10 Ways to Prepare During the Summer](https://confidentcounselors.com/10-school-counselor-summer-prep/) **Published:** July 17, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Keri and Counselor Chelsey **Content:** Summer is finally here and we all have time to breathe and decompress from another whirlwind year of advocating and empowering! If you’re like us, after a week or so of sipping lemonade by the pool, you might be getting the itch to start planning for another successful year. [CounselorChelsey](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselorchelsey) and [Counselor Keri](http://www.counselorkeri.com/) are here to share 10 things school counselors can do during the summer to prepare for the school year! ## **Review your data from the year** What programs and initiatives were successful? Where is there room for improvement? Begin looking for new data-driven interventions to address those areas that were not as successful (and celebrate the areas that were!). Use your data to determine which topics you will cover in classroom guidance lessons and small group programs. ## **Make a topical calendar** What topics will you cover and when? Generally, I know the specific topics that I will definitely cover each year, so after reviewing my data, I can make a topical calendar to start my organization for the year. For example, I begin the year with classroom lessons introducing the role of the counselor, reviewing or teaching school-wide norms and expectations, and goal-setting. Be sure to schedule events like National School Counseling Week (February 5-9, 2018) and National Day of Kindness (February 7, 2018) as well! [![School Counselor Summer Prep: Topical Calendar](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Topical-Calendar-1.jpeg)](//confidentcounselors.com/2017/07/17/10-school-counselor-summer-prep/) ## **Use Pinterest and Teachers Pay Teachers to find new ideas and resources** Counselors are always coming up with new and fresh ideas to help your counseling program! Many of these ideas and resources are available on [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/ConfidentSCs/) and Teachers Pay Teachers. These ideas and resources range from blogs, bulletin board ideas, free resources that are smaller, to entire monthly, or even year long resources that can be purchased. I love to spend some of my time in the summer getting fresh ideas! This also helps the frequent flyer students to have the information presented in new and engaging ways. You can find us on Pinterest and TpT with the following links: Counselor Keri: [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/counselorkeri/) & [TpT](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri) CounselorChelsey: [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/CounselorChels/) & [TpT](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselorchelsey) [![School Counselor Summer Prep: group materials](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/group-materials-1.jpeg)](ttp://confidentcounselors.com/2017/07/17/10-school-counselor-summer-prep/) ## **Organize group materials** There are groups I know will run each year, such as groups for [new students](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Small-Group-Counseling-Program-for-New-Students-Elementary-School-2552067), students with [changing families](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Changing-Families-School-Group-Counseling-Program-for-DivorceSeparation-2553440), students who need help [managing anger](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/6-Session-Anger-Management-Group-NO-PREP-3124811), and students needing a boost with [friendship skills](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/6-Session-Friendship-Skills-Group-NO-PREP-2622310). During the summer, I organize materials in a tub for each group. I create a binder with all lesson plans in page protectors and multiple copies of handouts inside page protectors as well. I also print copies of teacher nomination forms, group passes, and parent consent/opt-in forms to keep in the binder. The binder goes in the tub along with any supplies I’ll use specifically for the group. For example, I know I’ll use mini pinwheels and mini bubble bottles for [mindfulness group](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Zen-Kids-Mindfulness-Elementary-Group-Counseling-Program-2382054), so I can go ahead and put those in the tub so they’re ready to go when I need them. This is just something quick and simple I can do during the summer that saves me time during the year! [![School Counselor Summer Prep: counseling space](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/counseling-space-1.jpeg)](ttp://confidentcounselors.com/2017/07/17/10-school-counselor-summer-prep/) ## **Consider your counseling space.** Maybe I am just indecisive, but I feel like I change the look of my office every year! There are always new ideas for how to create the most inviting and welcome space for the students and staff. Think about anything in your space that you may want to change. Are there any inspiring quotes you want to hang on your walls? Any new seating options you would like to add? Is the lighting welcoming and inviting? These are all things to consider in the summer when you have extra time to plan and create! When a student or parent walks in for the first time, our office gives them a quick impression of who we are, and we want that impression to be a good one that reflects us well! Check out these great spaces from [EduKate and Inspire](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire), [The School Counselor is In](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-School-Counselor-Is-In), and [Little Miss Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor): [![School Counselor Summer Prep: Connect with teachers](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/connect-with-teachers-1.jpeg)](ttp://confidentcounselors.com/2017/07/17/10-school-counselor-summer-prep/) ## **Plan to connect with teachers and staff at the beginning of the year** As counselors, our relationships with the other staff in our building is crucial. This can really make or break our programs in a lot of ways. Look at your calendar and plan some time to visit teachers in their rooms during the first few work days. Doing this before the students come in is great because teachers have a little bit more time. I like to talk to teachers about what went well last year, see how I can be helpful this year, and quickly catch up on how we spent our summers. Try to spend between 10 and 15 minutes with each teacher – they are busy and you will be too! Another way I like to connect with the teachers is to provide little goodie bags or treats to encourage them at the start of the school year. ## **Create sign-up forms** For me, one of the hardest parts of planning my program has been scheduling classroom guidance lessons. To hit the ground running at the beginning of the year, consider creating a simple sign-up form for teachers to let you know when they would like you to teach classroom lessons. This can be as simple as a paper form to distribute at faculty in-services or Google forms that will quickly gather and arrange your data for you. [![School Counselor Summer Prep: collaborate with peers](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/collaborate-1.jpeg)](ttp://confidentcounselors.com/2017/07/17/10-school-counselor-summer-prep/) ## **Collaborate with your counseling peers** Reach out to other counselors in your district or area to discuss program planning and bounce ideas off of one another. Find out what’s working for them and consider ways you can implement similar initiatives for your students. If you don’t have local peers, find online communities through [ASCA Scene](http://scene.schoolcounselor.org/home) (for members) or social media. We are better together! ## **Look for professional development opportunities** Find in-person or online professional development opportunities you can attend over the summer to keep counseling skills fresh! Attending the [annual ASCA conference](https://www.ascaconferences.org/) is a great way to spend a few days during the summer networking with other school counselors and learning about important research in our field. It is also helpful to identify professional development opportunities available during the year so you can build it into your first draft of your calendar. Bookmark the [ASCA webinar series](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/school-counselors-members/professional-development/2017-webinar-series) page to make planning your PD a breeze! ## **RELAX!!** For those counselors that get some time off in the summer, use it to recharge! Read a good book (not counseling related!), go outside, spend time with family, drink iced tea. Do the things you enjoy! Our job is very tough and demanding, and we deserve time to relax. Once back to school hits, we will be thrust back into the crazy whirlwind, so use your time off to take a break, or two! If you don’t have time off from your job, or perhaps work a summer job, this is important for you too! Make sure you do one thing each day to practice self-care. Taking care of ourselves is what’s best for us and our students! While it is always nice to take time to relax and decompress over the summer, there are many ways you can use this time to get a head start on planning for the upcoming year. We hope these 10 tips will help you feel more prepared and confident with the school year begins. Let us know how you are planning on spending your time this summer! [![School Counselor Summer Prep](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/10-ways-to-prepare-pin-1.jpeg)](ttp://confidentcounselors.com/2017/07/17/10-school-counselor-summer-prep/) **Categories:** Organization **Tags:** back to school, CC tips, Counselor Chelsey, Counselor Keri --- ### [15 Must Have Books for Elementary School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/15-must-have-books-elementary-school-counselors/) **Published:** July 24, 2017 **Author:** EduKate & Inspire and School Counseling Confessions **Content:** Hello Confident Elementary Counselors! Kate, Susan, and Vanessa here to share with you some of our favorite books for elementary school counselors. The three of us have teamed up to tell you about the books we love and also tell you a bit about ourselves. As elementary counselors, we know that books are an important tool to use in our programming. Children can easily connect to the characters in stories, which helps them begin to apply the message to their own life. Join us as we tell you more about ourselves and our favorite books for elementary school counselors! ## **Kate’s Must Have Books** ![kate](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/kate.png) Hi, I’m Kate! I am an elementary school counselor at a K-4 school near Toledo, Ohio. I am very fortunate to work at a school with diverse students, a supportive community, and a wonderful staff. When I am not at work, I enjoy blogging, creating resources for other counselors, traveling, and spending time with my family and cat children. If you would like to learn more about me, you can visit my [blog](http://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com), follow me on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/edukateinspire/), or visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire). Before I became a school counselor, I spent 8 years as a classroom teacher where I developed a love for using children’s literature to help teach important messages to my students. As a counselor, I enjoy finding ways to incorporate picture books into my classroom lessons, small groups, and individual sessions. I also try to keep up with the field of counseling by spending time reading professional books about social emotional topics. Choosing my top 5 “must have” books was a challenge because there are SO many amazing books for kids. I choose each of the books below because of the way my students connect with the stories. [The Color Monster](http://amzn.to/2gVbLtc) by Anna Llenas: You can never have enough books about feelings! The Color Monster is unique because it is a pop-up book that depicts a new feeling on each page. My K-2 students love looking at the pop-up pages as I talk about each feeling. The pop-ups are very detailed and unique, which helps to keep students engaged! [Double-Dip Feelings](http://amzn.to/2unBoYn) by Barbara Cain: This feelings book has a bit of a twist! On each page, the author describes a scenario and then explains two opposite feelings that can happen in the scenario. For example, a student may feel nervous AND excited on the first day of school. When I read this book to second and third graders, they always do a great job explaining how one situation may involve many feelings. [One](http://amzn.to/2gVaceX) by Kathryn Otoshi: This is a perfect book for bullying awareness lessons. It shows how ONE student can stand up and make a difference in others’ lives. My first and second grade students really connect with the message in One and they enjoy watching the story evolve. [Say Something](http://amzn.to/2upErha) by Peggy Moss: Looking for a great book about the power of speaking up instead of being a bystander? This is the one! Say Something has a powerful message that students connect with easily. This story always creates meaningful conversations when I read it in third and fourth grade. [A Perfectly Messed Up Story](http://amzn.to/2vzcgfS) by Patrick McDonnell: In this book, the main character is trying to write a story and it keeps getting messed up. The character experiences many emotions, such as confusion, anger, and sadness, but does not give up. My second and third graders get a kick out of this story because there is humor throughout the book! I enjoy using this book to introduce positive self-talk, but it could also be used for perseverance and making mistakes. ## **Susan’s Must Have Books** ![susan](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/susan.png) Hello, I’m Susan from Counseling Wisdom. I counsel in a rural elementary school in southwest Missouri, near Springfield (Bass Pro, Brad Pitt, and Missouri State University-Go Bears)! I serve students in kindergarten through fourth grade. This fall, I will start my 30th year as an educator and my 21st as an elementary school counselor. I enjoy my students, have great teachers to work with, and a community that is very involved in the life of our school. I love reading to children, as it provides a wealth of opportunities and experiences for them. Over the years, I have collected several favorites and have chosen a few books for elementary school counselors that I would like to share with you. When I am not wearing my counselor hat, I love to scrapbook, read mysteries, create resources for school counselors, and spend time with my grandson. I would love for you to visit and follow me on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/susanwisdom.counselingwisdom/), [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/susanmystery/), [Twitter](https://twitter.com/WisdomSusan), and my [TPT store](http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counseling-Wisdom). [Personal Space Camp](http://amzn.to/2gVcKK5) by Julia Cook: Who doesn’t love Julia Cook?! Get out the hula-hoop and let students experiment with the concept of personal space. [Zinnia and Dot](http://amzn.to/2tBNHS3) by Lisa Campbell Ernst: Great story about two hens who have trouble getting along and when the weasel disrupts the chicken coop, things really get tough. This story is a great way to help students understand cooperation, teamwork, and sharing. [Don’t Pop Your Cork on Monday](http://amzn.to/2unigcY) by Adolph Moser: This is a classic, written by a clinical psychologist who brings cognitive behavioral approaches to managing stress! Students will enjoy imitating the different ways we act like “animals” when reacting to stress. [Leo the Lightning Bug](http://amzn.to/2tSnBpn) by Eric Drachman: A great way to help young students understand perseverance and growth mindset. Poor little Leo, all his fellow lightning bugs have found their light, but he has not yet! [Enemy Pie](http://amzn.to/2vzzKBC) by Derek Munson: Did someone say pie? Students will enjoy this engaging book about friendship. A great follow-up activity after reading is to have students create their own recipe for enemy pie. Check out this link for great FREE activities. ## **Vanessa’s Must Have Books** ![vanessa](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/vanessa.png) Hello! My name is Vanessa from [School Counseling Confessions](http://schoolcounselingconfessions.com/). This is my 15th year in education, 5 of which was as a teacher and the past 10 years I have been an Elementary School Counselor. I have spent most of my career in Rhode Island, however, my husband’s job had us transfer to Columbia, South Carolina this year. The population of students that I have the most experience with is children living in extreme poverty, students with incarcerated parents, and foster children. Using books for counseling is a must. Through the years, I have collected a wide variety of books, but no matter how many books I have, there are some that I can always rely on to get the students engaged and thinking. Choosing my top five books for elementary school counselors was almost an impossible task, but here they are in no specific order: [My Many Colored Days](http://amzn.to/2gVluzL) by Dr. Seuss: This book is absolutely perfect for any K-2 classroom. If you need a book to get students talking about emotions, this is it! It goes through them all in a fun, captivating way that young students are drawn to. When I read this book, my students are able to understand the feelings and express how they also have shared these same emotions all in the same day. [Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day ](http://amzn.to/2upYUCD)by Judith Viorst: Judith Viorst does an excellent job of describing how a day can go from bad to worse in the blink of an eye. Students enjoy going through this book and dissecting each bad decision that Alexander makes. This book has led to MANY great discussions! [My Daddy is in Jail ](http://amzn.to/2unHVlP)by Janet Bender: If you work with a population of students with incarcerated parents, this book is a must. It has discussions, small group guides, and what I love the most is that the pictures from the book are drawn by children. I have used this book numerous times in individual counseling and small groups. [The Dot ](http://amzn.to/2gVl7Fp)by Peter Reynolds: I have yet to find a Peter Reynolds book that I don’t love, but The Dot is, by far, my favorite. I use the book in 4th and 5th grade classes as the first lesson in my School Counseling classroom lessons. It is a simple book with a BIG message that my students always love. [I Said “No”](http://amzn.to/2gVpbFH) by Zack and Kimberly King: Calling child services for sexual abuse is something that I wish I could say I have never done. Unfortunately, I have to call each year, and with the rate of my calls increasing, I knew I had to incorporate “Personal Body Safety” lessons with my students. This book is based on a true story about a little boy who went to a sleepover at a neighbor’s house and bad things happened to him. I love that this book talks about “Green Flag” and “Red Flag” people and what to do if it happens to you. I would love to hear your thoughts on the books I selected. Stop by and visit me on [Teachers Pay Teachers](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counseling-Confessions), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/schoolcounselingconfessions/), [School Counseling Confessions](http://schoolcounselingconfessions.com/) website and [Pinterest](https://za.pinterest.com/scconfessions/). What are your favorite books for elementary counseling? Please add your favorites to the comments below! ![15 must have books for elementary school counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/19648316_10213493796647561_1454842760_o.png) **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Your Office **Tags:** book recommendations, EduKate & Inspire, School Counseling Confessions --- ### [How to Have an Organized First Week as a School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/organized-first-week/) **Published:** August 9, 2017 **Author:** School Counselor Stephanie **Content:** Happy Hot Summer, Everyone! I hope you are managing to stay cooler than I am here in Texas. I can’t guarantee working air conditioning, but I can give you a post full of tips for having an organized first week as a school counselor. We are going to get your counseling office and program set up for the beginning of the school year. If you are like me, the sight of a disorganized office is overwhelming. This, combined with the thought of setting up my entire counseling program, can sap all my inspiration and motivation for the rest of the day! To keep us all calm and forward-moving, here are 10 tips for how to have an organized first week as a school counselor. Your program will be in order by the time everyone returns, guaranteed! ## Set up your counseling office **3 – 6 hours.** Unpack all materials and set up your counseling office or classroom. Don’t spend more than a day on this, even if you are breaking in a new office/classroom because it will all change as the year progresses anyway. Just put everything you have in a place so that you feel somewhat comfortable in your space. ## Summer break phone and email messages **30 minutes – 1 hour.** Change out your summer break phone/email message and return any phone messages you acquired while hanging out at the beach. ## Return summer emails **2 hours**. Check work email and take care of those over-the-summer emails and any others you just couldn’t deal with during the last few days of the 2016-17 school year. ## Create your to-do list **1 hour to a half day**. Put together your TO DO list and write the tasks in your planner or Outlook Calendar or Smartphone or whatever you use. This way, you will know when to do them and actually remember to do each task. This will take 1-2 hours if you are continuing from the TO DO list you started for this new school year at the end of 2016-17. If you didn’t start your 2017-18 TO DO list last year and you have to make it from scratch- block out a half day. ## Meet with your counseling colleague(s) **2 -3 hours.** Plan and coordinate your activities for the first two weeks of school. Set a weekly or monthly planning time to continue meeting regularly through the school year. ## Set up the waiting area **2 hours.** Set up your waiting room/suite/lobby if you have one. If you have an awesome student helper who can come to the school and do this for you, enlist their help! In our counseling office, we have amazing office aides/peer mentors that we painstakingly train each year- [here’s a link if you need training materials](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Peer-Mentor-Program-3513027?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Organized%20First%20Week%20Post). This past year, we bought our student aide lunch and just let her go- 2 hours later, she was all done and our waiting room sparkled. ## Meet with your principal or admin **1- 2 hours.** With your principal or admin, review, complete, and sign [ASCA’s Program Planning Annual Agreement. ](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/ASCA%20National%20Model%20Templates/AnnualAgreementTemplate.pdf)Use this time to also set up a weekly or monthly meeting with your principal/admin that runs throughout the school year. It’s a great way for him or her to know what [ASCA (or your state school counseling association)](https://schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/home/SCCompetencies.pdf) recommends that you do, what amazing things you are actually doing, and what he or she needs for you to do. ## **Create your weekly schedule and yearly calendar** **Half day.** Create and send your weekly schedule and yearly calendar. [Here’s a downloadable version of mine from my School Counselor Stephanie TPT store, if you need them. ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Yearly-School-Counseling-Curriculum-Weekly-Calendar-3498129?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Organized%20First%20Week%20Post) Post copies in your workspace and on your office door. Also, email/give copies to your administrators and other relevant staff. ## Plan your August/September guidance lessons **1 Day**. Use your district or state-mandated school counseling objectives to plan your first few guidance lessons. Excellent August/September guidance topics include: introductions, how to see the counselor, how to handle an emergency, and success in school. Next, create your staff/student/parent needs assessments- the results of these needs assessments will guide the rest of your guidance lesson topics after September. Visit my blog, [School Counselor Stephanie](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/resources-links/), to download a free student needs assessment if you need one. ## Create your counseling program presentation for staff **Half day.** My counseling program presentation is also on my [homepage](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/resources-links/) if you’d like to use and modify it to create your own presentation. After you finish creating the presentation, send it to your principal or admin for approval and ask them for a time and date when you can present it to the staff. Now go ahead and get started on that To-Do List. Happy Do-ing! Here are some photos of my counseling office that I set up every August. Good luck on an AMAZING start to your school year! #### My Counseling Office [![Counseling Office 6](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/office-6-300x225.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/organized-first-week/office-6/) [![Counseling Office 5](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/office-5-300x225.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/organized-first-week/office-5/) Waiting Area [![Counseling Office 4](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/office-4-300x150.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/organized-first-week/office-4/) [![Counseling Office 3](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/office-3-300x225.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/organized-first-week/office-3/) Waiting Area [![Counseling Office 2](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Office-2-300x225.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/organized-first-week/office-2/) College Bulletin Board [![Counseling Office 1](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Office-1-300x224.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/organized-first-week/office-1/) Counseling Office ![Organized school counselor. 10 tasks to complete to start off your first week organized and ready for the year.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Organized-First-Week-Pin.png) **Categories:** Counselor Role, Organization **Tags:** back to school, new counselor --- ### [3 Organization Tips for a Great Year](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselor-organization/) **Published:** July 26, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Up **Content:** Organization is my jam. I may or may not get ridiculously excited about school supplies and organizing systems. I recently starting a grad school program at night and I had more fun than a toddler in a candy store setting up my notebook. But I know not everyone is so geeky inclined. Sometimes others think organized people are so together but, the secret is, I’m *lazy*. I want to do it once so I don’t have to think about it later. In that spirit, I want to share with you 3 school counselor organization tips that will make your school counselor life easier. ![school counselor organization go to folders](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/3-OrganizationTips-2-300x200.png) ## **Go To Folders** Go To Folders are exactly what they sound like. They have everything you need for a task. This can be a paper folder or a digital folder but the idea is the same. Get it together once so that next time, it’s a no-brainer. So what types of Go To Folders might be helpful? - Open House - Teacher Referrals for social skills, behavior, or attendance - Small Group by Topic - Registration - Committee Meetings - Individual Counseling – like Solution Focused or Initial Interview documents - Beginning of Year – needs assessment, about the counselor, scheduling ![school counselor organization Curriculum Notebooks](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/2-300x200.png) ## **Curriculum Notebook** You will seriously want to kiss yourself the first year you begin the year and pull your beautiful curriculum notebook off the shelf and know everything you’re going to teach. For the whole year. Yeah- that’s right. And guess what? It’s totally doable. It’s really easier than you think. - Use a 3 ring binder and create a divider for each grade level. - Put your curriculum action plan first behind the binder. Now you know what your plan is. Don’t have a plan? Fill out a blank curriculum plan as you go. - As you teach each lesson, put everything you need in sheet protectors in chronological order. I usually put my lesson plan and an original of any copies. If there are items I need that can’t fit in a notebook (like a book or a ball), I write them on a sticky and put that with the lesson plan. Easy Peasy- really. It seems so daunting but if you chip away at it, it’s manageable and will make your life 1,532 times easier. Pinky promise. ![School Counselor Organization Pick 2 Goals](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/4-300x200.png) ## **Pick 2 Goals Per Year** We all want to do it all. But here’s the thing- that just ain’t a thing. There’s no way that you can be great at everything. If you’re really great, as soon as you get great at something, you want to get better. So pick 2 goals that you are really going to focus on this year and concentrate on those. Everything else can stay the same. Notice that doesn’t say you don’t have to do other things (lunch duty I’m talking to you). Some of the goals that I have had: - Focus on data for my academic groups - Increase follow up with parents after seeing students for individual counseling - Practice and implement new strategies learned at training - Complete a closing the gap plan from start to finish – including results. So what’s your goal to make #schoolcounselorlife easier? Write your plan in the comments so we can all help each other out. Teamwork makes the dream work, amiright? ![3 Organization Tips](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/3-Organization-Tips-Pin-196x300.png) **Categories:** Organization **Tags:** organization --- ### [Managing Disruptive Behavior Referrals](https://confidentcounselors.com/managing-behavior-referrals/) **Published:** July 31, 2017 **Author:** Mental Fills, The DIY Counselor and The Helpful Counselor **Content:** Managing behavior referrals often fall under the realm of school counseling. However, most school counseling programs have few, if any, behavior management components. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Confident Counselor authors are ready to share their best practices for managing behavior referrals. Heather will cover the details we need to know first when presented with a behavior. Carla has some tips for clarifying the problem with the teacher. Finally, Robyn has some solid advice on how to engage the parents. ## \[su\_divider top=”no” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] ![The Helpful Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/The-Helpful-Counselor-New-150x150.jpg)Hey there! I’m Heather from [The Helpful Counselor Blog](http://www.thehelpfulcounselor.com) & [Counseling Resources](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Helpful-Counselor). Over the past two decades, I’ve worked as a therapist, school counselor, and special education teacher for students with emotional impairments. I pride myself on my ability to develop rapport and engage the tougher “hard to help” students. There’s just something about watching them grow into their full potential! ## \[su\_divider top=”no” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] Has a teacher ever referred a student to you for being disruptive but you were unsure about how to help? Sometimes, uncertainty can leave counselors feeling less than the helpful superstar they are. The term “disruptive behavior” is extremely broad. It can mean anything that interrupts the classroom. Sometimes teachers will give you a broad description like a student is “angry”. But unless we know the details, we won’t be able to pinpoint [what’s behind their anger](http://www.thehelpfulcounselor.com/75-reasons-behind-your-childs-anger/). In order to help, we need to ***clarify*** the problem. ## **![Managing Behavior referrals - Understanding the behavior](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/1.jpg)** # **Understanding the Behavior** - Description of disruptive behaviors. - When does it occur (e.g., time of day, day of the week, subject)? - When did the behavior first begin? - How frequently does the behavior occur? - How long the behavior lasts? - What happened right before the disruptive behavior? Gathering all of these details will help you narrow down the behavior **AND** the cause of the disruptive behavior. **Example**: A student is extremely argumentative and off-task for most of the day every Friday. Upon speaking with the student, we learn he started visiting his father over the weekend. Although it’s not 100% conclusive, there could be a connection and it certainly warrants further exploration! **Another Example**: A student talks to the student around him whenever the teacher uses the overhead projector. While speaking with the student, they admit that they can’t read what’s being projected. The words are blurry. The two examples both contained disruptive behavior, but one of them might be helped with a pair of glasses while the other student may need counseling to learn some coping or anger management skills to help process the changes in his home life. ## \[su\_divider top=”no” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] ![The DIY Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n-150x150.jpg)Hello, I’m Carla Christian, the [DIY Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor). I am a wife to Bill, Mom to three daughters, and Nanna to four grands with one on the way. Spending time with family and advocating for my profession are two things that I am very passionate about. My twenty plus years of experience as an educator have enabled me to create resources for teachers and school counselors. I especially enjoy developing no prep lessons for middle level school counselors ## \[su\_divider top=”no” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] # Working with Teachers Sometimes it seems my colleagues are saying, “Here, fix this!” When this happens, it is difficult to know how to support the teacher and help the student right at that moment. How does one handle these impromptu encounters? I have found that consultation and collaboration are essential in managing behavioral referrals and helping teachers manage disruptive behaviors in the classroom. **![Managing behavior referrals: working with teachers](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/2-200x300.jpg)** ### **Strategies for those spur of the moment behavior referral conversations** - Ask the teacher specific questions: “Where are you in your discipline plan with this student?” “Have you contacted the parent?” “What are the most disruptive behaviors?” The answers provide a starting point to determine how to proceed. (Our school has a uniform discipline plan that teachers are to follow. Parent contact is the first step.) If there has been no parent contact, the teacher should inform the parents of student behavior. After there has been parent contact, consult with the teacher and move to the next step. - Request the teacher fill out a referral form. (This form documents all that the teacher has done prior to the referral and is vital in determining a plan of action.) - Observe the student in different settings. (include classroom, cafeteria, hallway, gym) - Meet with the teacher to discuss information from the referral and observations. - Work with the teacher to develop strategies for addressing student behavior, including behavior goals, behavior tracking charts, positive rewards, seating arrangement, classroom management, etc. - After a designated time, evaluate strategies to determine effectiveness. - If there is no improvement in student behavior, follow-up may include a conference with the parent, referral to a counselor for individual counseling, conference with admin, or a functional behavior assessment and behavior intervention plan. ## \[su\_divider top=”no” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] ![Mental Fills on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/mental-fills.jpg)Hello, I am Robyn from the [TPT store Mental Fills](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mental-Fills). I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with close to 20 years of experience in the field of Mental Health. I have worked with a broad range of children, teens, and adults in inpatient psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment facilities, and outpatient mental health clinics providing individual and group therapy. Currently, I work full-time in The Department of Mental Health at a military hospital and part-time in private practice. Although I specialize in evidenced based treatment for anxiety, depression, and interpersonal relationships, it is my experience as a parent of a child with special needs in elementary school that has inspired both my TPT resources and [my tips](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/EDITABLE-Behavioral-Progress-Note-for-Parents-of-Disruptive-Children-3121456) on engaging parents of disruptive children. ## \[su\_divider top=”no” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] ## ![Managing behavior referrals: engage parents](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/3-200x300.jpg) # Engaging Parents Reach out to parents early on to share your interest and good intentions of working together. After speaking to a parent in person or over the phone, an online partnership might be a good next step. To promote parent reception and eliminate defensiveness, consider scheduled weekly or biweekly emails: - **Review specific goal(s).** Keep the email focused on the specific goal that is being worked on. This will help eliminate child blame and focus on strategies that are working or need tweaking. For example, instead of “I am emailing you about David’s anger problem,” try “I am emailing you today regarding our goal of anger management.” - **Use** **language that demonstrates partnership**, such as “us, we, our, let’s.” Although this may show a looseness of boundaries, we want parents to understand we are equally invested in their child’s goals and progress; and this avoids blaming statements. A helpful example of positive language is, “let’s work on helping David with coping skills this week.” - **Invite parent expertise**. A newbie mistake is assuming parents are at fault for their child’s behaviors. Regularly ask the parent/s for their advice. Ask what has worked for their child before, what is working for the child at home, and what reasonable suggestions the school could try to help their child’s behavior. This will not only provide strategies you may not have considered before but helps to improve the parent’s feeling of value and connection. - **Include positive behaviors** and progress towards goals. Similar to children, parents need to feel encouraged and supported. Parents need to hear their children are moving in a positive direction and although there may be a temporary regression, reminders of the steps made forward are necessary to sustain hope. Although this may be a challenge, it will be a critical piece of gaining parent investment. - When sharing updates that include negative behaviors, avoid language that shows judgment or criticism. Simply **state the facts**. Instead of “David lost control again and rudely threw his pencil. He can’t seem to control his anger,” try, “David struggled with impulse control today and threw his pencil.” Sticking to facts prevents emotional and finger-pointing responses. - Avoid reviewing the negative consequences to their child’s behaviors, such as “the teacher and the classmates are tired of his behavior.” This will only promote shame and resistance. Instead, **focus on the positive consequences** that include the both of you working together. For example, “I plan to review coping skills with David this week. I will send home a list of the skills he prefers to practice at home.” - **Offer help**. Even the best of parents feel helpless and inadequate. Instead of imposing recommendations, when appropriate, gently offer solutions. For example, “If you are interested, I have found some useful tips that may work at home, I would be happy to email you.” Other suggestions that help support the parent include collaborating with the student’s outside therapist and providing updates as needed. Lastly, although parents can have a negative influence at times, we do not want to take for granted the positive influences they have on your student’s success. These emails may seem like a chore at first, but once you create a trusting connection with a parent, the fewer details need to be provided and most importantly, the alliance built aids in improved behaviors. Finally, when writing your email, always put yourself in the parent’s shoes and ask yourself, what would I want to read if this was my child? ![Managing Behavior Referrals](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/3-1-200x300.jpg) **Categories:** Behavior, Counselor Chats, Parents, Teachers **Tags:** behavior intervention, CC tips, Mental Fills, The DIY Counselor, The Helpful Counselor --- ### [5 School Counseling Activities Using Paper Lunch Bags](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-crafts-lunch-bags/) **Published:** August 16, 2017 **Author:** Mental Fills **Content:** Following the positive response of “[Five Ways To Use Tissue Boxes in Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/03/06/tissue-boxes-in-counseling/),” I wanted to share additional ways I use crafts in my therapy practice. Because brown lunch bags are inexpensive, easily accessible, and inspire creativity, they have been my go to for child play therapy. I have narrowed down my list of therapeutic uses into five projects that may be used in groups, individual sessions, and/or even in the classroom. # The Mindless Monster is a creature that keeps our mind focused on regrets and worries. He steals our attention from the present and provokes careless behaviors. The good news is the Mindless Monster can be tamed with Mindfulness strategies to be fed through his paper bag mouth. After crafting the monster, encourage children to feed their monster with Mindfulness reminders, such as noteworthy index cards or personalized objects. Some examples include flowers, rocks, quotes, chocolate, pictures, or other sensory items discovered from a [mindfulness scavenger hunt](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/MINDFULNESS-Scavenger-Hunt-Worksheets-For-Relaxation-and-Calm-2879291). In the moment of mindlessness, children may be invited to reach inside the monster’s mouth to choose a strategy and practice mindfulness. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Mindless-Monster-1.png) ### SUPPLIES: 1 paper bag (cut a hole towards the top) Scissors Note cards Mindfulness reminders Markers/colored pencils Optional: Decorative crafts # The Separated Homes is an activity for children of separation or divorce. Simply decorate the outside of lunch bags to look similar to both of their parent’s home. Use the bags as a play therapy tool to promote therapeutic play, or include note cards that share thoughts, feelings, and memories, to be placed inside the bags. **![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Divorce-House.png)Suggested Note Card Prompts:** - How do I feel living here? - How we spend time together? - What do I do by myself? - What I feel like here? - What do I wish about this house? - How we show love here? - How we fight here? - How we make up here? - How do we talk to each other? - What do I worry about here? - What am I angry about here? - What my room looks like? - What am I happy about here? - How often I live here? - How often I wish I lived here? - What does my other parent think about this house? - What I miss most about my other house? - What I do when I miss my other parent? - Who takes care of me here? - Where is my safe place here? - Favorite memories here? - Uncomfortable memories here? - Who keeps me company here? # The Giving Tree ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/My-Giving-Tree.png)is a fun way to introduce gratitude and kindness. Start by cutting 3 inches off the top of a paper bag and then cut 3 inches of strips from the top of the bag. Flatten the bag before you write, “My Giving Tree” on the front of the bag. Next, take out your green construction paper and cut 3-inch strips on the right side. Use a marker to write what you are grateful for or how you show kindness on each strip. Use as many separate pages of green paper as you need. Then, place the construction paper inside the bag with the left side facing down. Gently squeeze the neck of the tree and tug the green strips in between the brown paper bag strips. After the children share their personal examples, have them gift it to someone special, or display it in a location they would benefit from a gratitude or kindness reminder. ### SUPPLIES: 1 paper bag Scissors Green construction paper Sharpie or markers Optional: paper, tape, glue, ruler # My Anger Volcano ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Anger-Volcano-150x150.png) helps children identify personal signs of anger and coping strategies. Start by cutting 5 inches off the top of a paper. Flatten the bag before you write, “My Anger Volcano” on the front. Next, take out your red construction paper and cut 3-inch strips on the right side. Use a marker to write down your signs of anger, (i.e. crying, making a fist, heart racing). Repeat the same steps for your yellow construction paper, although write down ways you can cool down when you are angry (i.e. deep breaths, taking space, asking for help). Use as many pages of construction paper as needed. Then, place the construction paper inside the bag with the left side facing down. Gently squeeze the top of the brown bag and tug the red strips in between the yellow strips. Invite the children to share their examples. For extra fun, have the children blindly point to or rip off one of the strips to role play the coping skills solution. ### SUPPLIES: 1 paper bag Scissors Yellow and red construction paper Sharpies or markers Optional: paper, tape, glue, ruler # My Grief Journal ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Grief-Journal.png) is a helpful tool to hold the memories of a loved one. Lay five brown bags on top of each other and fold them in half. In the middle of the bag, punch two holes ¾ of an inch from the top and bottom. Loop a string through the holes to bind the journal together. If preferred, you may use each bag for a separate topic, such as, “things I miss,” “things I wish you knew,” “my favorite memories,” “how I want to remember you,” “years,” or “love notes.” Decorate the bag with craft supplies. Use the opening of bags to place pictures or other memories by topic. Use a mini clothes pin to secure items placed inside the openings. This activity can be used simultaneously with therapeutic discussion and other [grief resources](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mental-Fills/Category/Grief-and-Loss-167488). ### SUPPLIES: 5 paper bags Hole puncher String Pictures/index cards Markers or colored pencils Tape or glue Optional: Mini clothes pins, Craft supplies ## Got another creative school counseling craft? Comment below ![School Counseling Crafts](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/4-150x150.jpg) **Categories:** Counsel It Yourself (CIY), Quick Activities **Tags:** counseling activities --- ### [Why You Should Be Using SMART Goals in Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/smart-goals-counseling/) **Published:** August 21, 2017 **Author:** Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop **Content:** SMART goals are incredible tools that can help you measure student progress and structure plans for counseling sessions. SMART Goals also fundamentally changed my approach to counseling by giving students agency and engagement in their own improvement. During my first five years as a school psychologist, my counseling sessions were full of social skills games, executive functioning checklists, and all the self-esteem projects you could imagine. Kids loved coming to counseling and I thought I was doing a pretty bang-up job until Trey. Trey was a bright, lanky fifth grader who had been seeing me for two months when he caused me to have an existential professional moment, > **“Ms. Driscoll, I really like talking to you, but is it, you know, helping me?”** > > **“Of course, it’s helping! Now color that mandala and let’s talk about what you said to your math teacher this morning.”** The truth was after two months, Trey and I had established a strong relationship, but he was still talking back to teachers and crumpled papers were spilling out of his desk like Niagara Falls. I spent that weekend thinking about Trey’s question and my lack of certainty. I knew I had great relationships with students that supported the kind of change I wanted to see in school counseling. They just had no idea why they were there. I mean, I said the standard > Your teachers are concerned about your behavior in class. > > Your parents are worried about your organization. > > I heard you have been having trouble getting along with some other students.” While I was honest, I just didn’t treat them as partners and guides in their own progress. The next time I saw Trey, we spent the session learning about and setting SMART goals. It changed my practice and I humbly say it changed things for Trey. # Using SMART Goals in Counseling SMART typically stands for **S**pecific, **M**easurable, **A**ttainable, **R**elevant, and **T**ime-Based. Chances are by now, you created SMART goals for yourself in work or graduate school and may have used them in your counseling sessions with students. I will challenge you to take it a couple of steps further. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Setting-Goals-Lesson-Anger-Group.017-232x300.jpeg) ## Brainstorm Possible SMART Goals Spend time brainstorming with the student. Too often, students come to counseling with the goal decided for them. I certainly guide them in the direction of the referral concern, but they have to want to work on it and see the reason why. We work on coming up with tons of possible goals. Not all ideas are going to be relevant or attainable. Once the student finds the goal they want to work on, then work on making it SMART. [This SMART Goal lesson](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/SMART-Goals-Students-Set-Monitor-and-Reflect-on-Goal-Setting-Activities-2007441?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=LHD%20Setting%20Goals%20Post%208.2017) with step-by-step resources and practice examples was always my go-to. ## Start with the End in Mind Begin the next session with that finally tuned SMART goal and work backward. Break the goal into small chunks and map it out by week. The small chunks should be measurable. These small chunks help the goal feel manageable and let the student know when they might be off track or need more time. ![SMART Goal Brainstorm Sheet](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Setting-Goals-Lesson-Anger-Group.018-232x300.jpeg) ## Let the Student Hire You Once a student has clearly defined the goal and broken it down. Ask the student to hire you. Each week, you will create activities to help them achieve their goal. Students love the idea of being in charge and of an adult working for them. This helps the student feel responsible for their improvement rather than feeling like you are. ## The Data Does the Talking Each week you will collect data on how the student is progressing towards their goal. If they want to improve their homework completion or have fewer office referrals or have less drama with friends, we measure it. I love using weekly data to keep the student motivated and show them all the small changes that build over time. Check out this [Setting SMART Goals lesson](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Setting-SMART-Goals-in-Small-Groups-steps-posters-goal-sheet-2996426?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=SMART%20Goal%20Blog%208.2107%20Lesson), it comes with a tracking sheet to help manage the data. I understand that the shift I’m pitching is subtle. It may sound like what you already do. I challenge you to reflect on your counseling sessions. 1. **Is the student making progress toward a well-defined goal?** 2. **Could the student tell someone else what they are working on?** 3. **Does the student know what they are working on each week and why?** 4. **Does the student feel responsible for their growth?** 5. **Do they know why they are there?** **In Trey’s words, do they know if it’s helping?** Get started by downloading this [SMART Goal Freebie Page](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/SMART-Goal-Freebie-Page.pdf) Check out our[ Confident Counselors Tips for Setting Goals with Students](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/01/03/tips-setting-goals-students/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Small-Group-Lesson-SMART-Goals-Cover.001-300x300.jpeg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Setting-SMART-Goals-in-Small-Groups-steps-posters-goal-sheet-2996426?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=SMART%20Goal%20Blog%208.2107%20Lesson)SMART Goals Counseling Lesson for 2nd-4th grade. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/SmartGoals-Cover2.001-300x300.jpeg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/SMART-Goals-Students-Set-Monitor-and-Reflect-on-Goal-Setting-Activities-2007441?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=LHD%20Setting%20Goals%20Post%208.2017)SMART Goals Activities 4th-7th ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/SMART-Goals-Pin-200x300.jpg) **Categories:** Counseling **Tags:** counseling activities, setting goals --- ### [These 5 Tips Make It So Easy to Welcome New Students](https://confidentcounselors.com/welcome-new-students/) **Published:** August 18, 2017 **Author:** EduKate & Inspire **Content:** Whether it is the beginning of the school year or the middle of April, one important role of a school counselor is to make sure that new students feel welcome at your school. Depending on the dynamics of your school, you may receive varying amounts of new students throughout the school year. At my suburban Title 1 school in Ohio, we receive about 40 new students at the beginning of the year. We also receive an additional 10-15 new students throughout the school year. Here are 5 tips to welcome new students that have helped prepare students for success at my school. # 1) Keep Track of New Students Every time a new student enrolls at my school, I receive an email from our enrollment coordinator. I created a simple Google Doc to keep track of new students as the emails arrive. In the Google Doc, I create one page for each grade level. Next, I insert a chart that has 3 columns on each page– Name and School, Notes, and Placement. In the Name and School column, I type in the new student’s name and the previous school he or she attended. The Notes column is used for any information I acquire about the student that would be helpful for classroom placement. This information may come from the student’s records, talking with the previous teacher, an IEP, or discussions with parents. I work with our dean of students to reach out to the previous teacher of each new student. This method is only about 50% successful, as we often do not get our phone calls or emails returned; however, the information we *do* receive is very valuable, so we always make the attempt. The third column of the doc is Placement, which is used to type in the new student’s teacher once we finalize our classroom lists. By keeping a Google Doc of new students, it helps us stay organized and collect helpful information that is beneficial for student placements. # 2) Plan Ahead for New Students When new students register at our central office, they are given a packet full of registration information. Inside the packet, we include a flyer about our New Student Orientation. The flyer contains information about the Orientation, as well as contact information for myself, our principal, and our dean. It is common for families to reach out with questions through email during the summer, so it is helpful to give them our email addresses in advance. ## What if the new student arrives in the middle of the year? Our process is a bit different for students who arrive during the middle of the school year. We do not run a formal orientation. Instead, I invite each new family in for a tour prior to the student’s first day of school. One way I plan ahead for new students in the middle of the school year is by creating New Student Folders. I purchased some [simple folders](http://amzn.to/2hegxlZ) from Amazon in our school colors. On the front of the folders, I stick on a label that I created with the online[ Avery Label Maker](http://www.avery.com/avery/en_us/Templates-%26-Software/Software/Avery-Design--Print-Online.htm). Inside the folder, I include important papers that will help the new family get acclimated with our school, such as: 1. Most recent school newsletter 2. Meet the counselor brochure 3. PBIS brochure and Class Dojo letter 4. Most recent lunch and breakfast calendars 5. School year calendar 6. School supply list 7. Directions to create a PowerSchool Portal (our online grade card program) 8. Flyer from our parents’ club I provide the family with the New Student Folder when they come in for the tour and include a business card so they can contact me with any questions. # 3) Plan a New Student Orientation About one week before school starts, we invite all new families to our school for a New Student Orientation. We create a simple presentation in Google Slides that gives families an overview of our school. I take turns presenting with our dean of students, but also invite our principal, school nurse, and parents’ club president to say a few words. The presentation lasts about 15-20 minutes and then we split all of the new families into small groups for a tour of the school. It is helpful to have very small groups to address questions from the families, so I like to invite a few teachers to help serve as tour guides. The tour is a very personable experience, which helps the new families feel welcome. After the tour is complete, each group meets back in the cafeteria for a Popsicle treat! Staff members mingle with the new families to address any further questions. We also set out a table including some important information about our school, which allows families to grab any extra information that they need. Our New Student Orientation really helps to give families a great first impression of our school! # 4) Connect with New Students Once the school year begins, I continue connecting with new students to help them feel welcome at our school. During the second week of school, I meet with the new students in each grade level. It is helpful for the new students to get to know one another and it is also beneficial for me to learn more information about each child. During our meeting time, we always start with an ice breaker game. A quick search on Pinterest will give you many options for ice breakers. My favorite game to play is New Student Jenga, which can be created with my [Build Your Own Counseling Game](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Build-Your-Own-Counseling-Game-with-Jenga-2693968) on TPT. This Jenga game asks students though provoking questions in an engaging way. Throughout the game, I jot down any extra info that children share that will help me get to know them better. Students love playing New Student Jenga and they often ask to play again when they visit my office later in the school year! Click on the image below to check out the game on TPT. [![Build Your Own Counseling Game](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/FullSizeRender.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Build-Your-Own-Counseling-Game-with-Jenga-2693968) When new students arrive in the middle of the year, I take the time to connect with them a few days after their arrival. I invite them to lunch with me and play an ice breaker game to get to know them better. Sometimes I notice that the new student is having trouble getting acclimated mid-year. If this is the case, I often schedule check-ins with the student throughout the next few weeks. I also find a student buddy to connect with the new student. # 5) Introduce New Students to the School A final step I take to help new students feel welcome is to create a display showcasing all of the new students at the beginning of the year. When I meet with each new student, I snap a picture and have them create a pennant for our [New Student Banner](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/New-Student-Banner-2757824). Once I am done meeting with all of the students, I use the pennants to create a display in our main hallway. Not only does this create a welcoming display, but it also helps the returning students get to know all of the new students! During arrival and dismissal, I often catch parents checking out the display, too. I keep the display up for about a month and then return the pennants to each student to take home. If you want to create your own New Student Banner display, check out my FREE resource by clicking the image below. [![New Student Banner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/rsz_1new_student_banner_display.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/New-Student-Banner-2757824) By following these 5 tips to welcome new students, you can help new students and families feel welcome at your school. Although it takes a bit of work up front, the steps you take to connect with new students will have a lasting effect. Do you have any favorite tips for new students? Please share your ideas in the comments below! ![5 Tips to Welcome New Students](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/5-Tips-to-Welcome-New-Students-Pin-200x300.png) **Categories:** Your Program **Tags:** new students --- ### [Making Group Counseling Work](https://confidentcounselors.com/making-counseling-groups-work/) **Published:** August 14, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Up **Content:** Groups. Do you love them or hate them? I remember in grad school learning about group theory, the ideal selection process, and writing lesson plans for 12 45-minute sessions. When I started at my first school and saw the reality – way more kids than time, 20 minute lunch groups (while eating), and kids who struggle to even participate. I used to hate groups. Then I got myself together and decided to own my groups instead of the other way around. **Make a Plan** Know the groups that you will plan on the first day of school. Yes, you heard that right. But what about needs assessments and groups that “come up” during the year, I hear you say. If we are using data to determine the needs in the building and are communicating with classroom teachers throughout the school year, we can make a plan before the year even starts. And guess what? That means the groups might actually happen (go ahead and cheer). To give you an idea, here are the groups that I typically ran: - Fall Groups - Sept-Oct: - Resiliency – target group: students with 15 or more absences in the previous year - [K-1 Recess Club](http://www.counselorup.com/blog/recess-got-you-down-bring-back-the-fun) – target group: students who lost free choice at recess because of behavior - Oct. – Dec: - [The Girls Book Club](http://www.counselorup.com/blog/flashbackfriday-the-girls-group) – target group: 3rd – 5th girls with high number of counselor referrals for friendship issues - [3-5 Social Skills](http://www.counselorup.com/blog/social-emotional-learning-out-of-this-world-social-skills) – target group: 3rd -5th grade students by teacher and parent referral - Winter Groups - Jan-Mar: - [Academic Achievement](http://www.counselorup.com/blog/academic-achievement-groups) – target group: 3rd-5th grade students who did not pass the state mandated test in the previous year OR who were proficient but had low work habits scores on report card - Spring Groups: - Mar-May: - [Small Fry Friendship Group](http://www.counselorup.com/blog/small-fry-friendship-groups) – target group: K-2 students with behavior referrals for (not) managing their strong emotions or social skill concerns - [Girls Rock](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Confidence-Group-Girls-Rock-1784568?aref=xyt02v7i) & [Superhero Kids](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Esteem-Group-Super-Boys-Super-Kids-1831442) – target group: 2-4th students by teacher and parent referral for self-esteem - Middle School Readiness – target group: needs assessment following [middle school lessons](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Transition-Lessons-Going-to-Middle-School-1802138) and middle school lunch bunch session This plan pretty much covered our needs as a school. I knew exactly what I was going to offer, how I was going to determine the students who participated, and a rough estimate of when they would occur. You probably noticed that I started groups in waves. Each wave of groups began on the same week and groups went as long as needed until they were done. Here’s what a week looked like: ![Making Groups Work - Create a Plan](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Making-Groups-Work-Create-a-Plan-300x150.png) Some groups met more than once per week and others met one time. This chart shows you a typical week of lunch groups. I might have also had some K-2 groups in other times of the day. I try really hard to not do K-2 at lunch because younger kids can’t really eat and group at the same time. Once groups started, I used a drawer system like \*[THIS](http://amzn.to/2zogw3o)\* and kept all the material for each group in one drawer. If two groups were on the same topic, they still had different drawers. That way, I can pull the drawer out and have everything I need but not more. **Surprise!** So what do you do when a genuine need for a group becomes apparent after your best-laid plans? You run it of course! Hopefully, with your [calendar](http://www.counselorup.com/blog/calendars-for-productivity) organized and ready, you will easily be able to see where you can fit an additional group in. (Pro-tip: Schedule your groups before you allow teachers to sign up for lessons so you can have consistent group times.) So how do you make groups work? What’s your go-to way to make it happen? Or your sticking point where everything falls apart? ![Making Groups Work](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Making-Groups-Work-PIN-200x300.png) **Categories:** Group Counseling **Tags:** group counseling --- ### [How to Present Your Counseling Program and Role to Staff](https://confidentcounselors.com/present-counseling-program-role/) **Published:** August 30, 2017 **Author:** School Counselor Stephanie **Content:** During back to school season, my co-counselors and I put together a presentation for staff about our counseling program. It is crucial to present your counseling program and what your job entails. Even if you spend most of your work week on one campus with the same colleagues and administrators, many staff probably do not know all that you do. This can be tricky because when colleagues and administrators don’t know what we do, they might think we need things to do. Or worse, they might feel resentful if they think our job has fewer responsibilities than their job. To help you start off right, I have lots of tips and resources to create a presentation that lets you explain your dynamic program to your staff. But first, let’s talk a bit about how to present yourself as their go-to resource on all things counseling! ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/resistance-is-futile.jpg) # **Present Yourself to Staff** In my school district, counselors start before teachers, so that gives me a bit of time before I have to present my counseling program. The first thing I do is ask the principal to add me to the Welcome Back Staff Meeting agenda on the first day that the staff returns. I only take about 5-10 minutes at this meeting to introduce myself with my name, background, and a brief summary of my role as campus counselor to staff, with the promise of more to come soon when I present my counseling program to them. Here are some of the other things I do to present myself to staff: - ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/raise-paw.jpg)**The principal gives me an additional five minutes to introduce myself and my role at the new staff orientation.** - **I meet briefly with all team leaders to review my role and how I can assist their teams. Then I find out when their weekly meetings are, so I can attend these meetings to give updates on student concerns.** - **I pop in briefly to all new teachers’ classrooms to reintroduce myself and my role and personally welcome them to campus.** - **I set aside some time daily where I am available to staff. This might come in the form of just attending the staff lunch or hanging out at the coffee pot in the teachers’ lounge or lingering a few minutes after any staff meetings. Alternately, I might make a morning announcement that I am available at a certain time of the day for any questions or comments they have for me.** # **Present Your Counseling Program to Staff** Once I have taken care of the mini-introductions, I gear up for my big counseling program presentation to staff. At my school, we ask for 30-45 minutes during a professional development day, and then we present our program to staff through a PowerPoint with handouts. We also include an ending activity where they can apply what we’ve presented to them. It is a lot of work to put the PowerPoint together, but it pays off in spades because for the rest of the year they understand what we do, how we help students, and how to utilize our services. In our presentation, we cover the following topics using lots of color, cartoons, memes, jokes, interesting anecdotes, games, prizes, and anything else we can think of to make the presentation as eye catching, interesting, and interactive as possible. ## **Presentation Topics** - **The official characteristics and duties of our role in the school (according to the guidelines set by governing state, board, campus, national or professional organization).** - **How we can support teachers in their work with students.** - **How we support students.** - **Procedures for how staff and students can utilize our services-especially in crisis situations.** - **A summary of the top 3-5 most important points of our presentation.** ## Counseling Program Presentation Resources Download a free copy of my [Counseling PowerPoint Presentation](http://bilinguallearner.com/) template located on my homepage. Additionally, grab my[ *Meet the Counselor* booklet](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meet-Your-Counselor-An-Info-Guide-for-Students-2646849?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=Counseling%20Program%20Blog%20Post%2082017) (available in English and Spanish). I use this booklet to present myself and my counseling program to students and parents. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Meet-Your-Counselor-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/present-counseling-program-role/meet-your-counselor/) Great resource to present yourself to students and parents. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/pres-ppt-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/present-counseling-program-role/pres-ppt/) Free customizable powerpoint on Bilinguallearner.com I hope these tips and resources are helpful to you are as your start your school year! Feel free to use as much or as little of it as you need in creating your own program presentation. Staff knowledge of your counseling program and duties will benefit students all year long! ![Present your counseling program and role to staff at the beginning of the year. Free editable powerpoint and meet the counselor templates.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Pin-Presenting-Your-Counseling-Program-200x300.jpg) **Categories:** Advocacy, Collaboration **Tags:** school counseling program --- ### [8 Steps to Build Student-Led School-Community Engagement](https://confidentcounselors.com/student-led-school-community-engagement/) **Published:** August 23, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Keri **Content:** Career education is an integral aspect of the school counseling program, but educating students on community helpers and their own career interests is just the beginning. Students have the capacity to be contributing community members *right now*, no matter their grade level. School counselors can walk alongside them as they discover ways they can engage in and contribute to the community. Building school-community engagement not only gives students a window to career options available to them but also leads to positive school outcomes. Schools that link classroom activities to community projects also see dividends in [improved school behaviors, reduced suspension rates, improved academic achievement](https://www.education.nh.gov/instruction/school_health/health_coord_family.htm), [higher graduation rates, and improved ability to work effectively in a team](http://www.opencolleges.edu.au/informed/other/students-can-benefit-from-participation-in-community-service-studies-show-4147/). Community engagement can be a school-wide or grade level initiative integrated into the classroom guidance program or tackled on a smaller scale through a service club. This type of project affords counselors the opportunity to create an environment where students have a sense of belonging in the school environment, help students understand the importance of short- and long-term goal setting, take ownership of the project through self-motivation and self-direction, practice working cooperatively in a group, form relationships with adults who support success, *and* explore character traits such as conservationism, loyalty, leadership, and more. In this post, I will outline 8 steps to create a student-led school-community engagement initiative. I provide an example of a larger scale project, but these steps can, of course, be applied to smaller projects as well. ![Students of all ages have the capacity to be engaged community members. Use these 8 steps to energize your students to create school-community engagement.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Slide1-1.jpg) # **Identify a need**. This process is 100% student-driven! What is their vision for the community? What would make the community a better place for them to live? Have students think broadly about ideas that will likely turn into long-term projects. Remind students that when it comes to community change, there are no “overnight fixes.” Creating an engaged community takes effort from everyone involved. *Example*: Perhaps your students would like for the local park to be a nicer place for families to spend time together. ## **Identify action steps**. Students determine how they can give life to their vision for the community. Brainstorm at least 3 ways they can take action. Answer the question, “What can we do about this right now?” Let students take the lead on this aspect of the project, and allow student leaders to emerge to lead the discussion. Make sure everyone is given an opportunity to share ideas in order to demonstrate that all members of the community are valued. #### *Example*: Three actionable ways students could make this vision as reality are (1) Clean up the local park, (2) Host a yard sale to raise money to install a playground at the park, and (3) Host a family day or “Grand Re-Opening” of the park. ## **Calculate costs**. If your students’ vision involves any sort of fundraising, calculate expenses from the outset. These ideas can change as the project takes life, but this step is vital before students move on to step 4. *Example*: (1) How much do trash bags and clean up kits cost? (2) How much does a playground cost? (3) What items would you like to have at a Family Day and how much will they cost? ## **Connect with community leaders**. Once the students have identified ways they can turn their vision into reality, contact local community leaders who can help. As the counselor, reach out by phone and email to let leaders know what the students have in mind. Have students write letters to the community leaders explaining their vision for the community, detailing the action steps they wish to take, and ask for specific support from the leaders. Host a student-led community involvement night, inviting community members to come hear about the students’ plan. *Example*: Write letters to (1) the director of your local parks and recreation board about a willingness to partner with them, (2) a local store owner who might be willing to donate trash bags or other clean-up items, (3) parents who might be willing to donate items to a yard sale, (4) the mayor, and any other community leaders who will be interested in the project or will be willing to assist. If your students want to host a community involvement night, have students prepare a presentation, timeline, and speeches, and identify specific ways they can ask the attendees to help (donate money, items, time, etc.). Note: This process of connecting with community leaders affords many opportunities to integrate your project into the academic curriculum. Involve willing teachers in the process so that students can see how their academic studies directly relate to their roles as community members. Writing letters and preparing speeches for a community involvement night are perfect opportunities for English/Language Arts curriculum integration, and calculating costs for the project can be integrated into the mathematics curriculum. ## **Gather needed materials**. This, of course, varies depending on the project your students have identified. *Example*: (1) Gather trash bags, protective gloves, and trash poles. (2) Collect donation items for a yard sale. ## **Begin action steps**. This, again, will look different for each group depending on what the school-community engagement project is. Some action steps can occur during classroom guidance or small group time and others will require after school or weekend time. Encourage students to look for ways for they can each use their strengths and talents. This is also a great time to show students that community involvement does not simply mean going to work during your designated hours; being an engaged community member means contributing your own time as well. *Example*: (1) Designate a Saturday when students and parents will meet at the park for a clean up day. (2) Spend time organizing and pricing donated items for yard sale. Advertise the yard sale, and eventually, host it! ![Students of all ages have the capacity to be engaged community members. Use these 8 steps to energize your students to create school-community engagement.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Slide3.jpg) ## **Measure progress and refocus energy** **when needed**. If your students are conducting a project that requires collecting money, creating a visual graph of funds earned is a great way to measure progress. If they are contributing volunteer hours to a local organization, a highly visible school-wide log could represent their progress. When progress monitoring shows that students might not meet their original goal, brainstorm ways to refocus and get back on track or make changes to the goal. *Example*: What progress is being made toward purchasing playground equipment? Should students choose a less expensive model? Can they purchase additional equipment? ## **Keep open communication.** Communicate with with involved community members and advertise your efforts. Consider hosting additional information nights in which students can present their progress to the community and re-energize the community for engagement. Students can share their progress and also outline more specific ways the community members can help or be involved. Utilize the school social media pages to keep community members informed of progress and meeting times. *Example*: (1) Perhaps a storm occurred and the park needs additional attention. Is there someone available to provide landscaping help? Can more community members meet to plant a small garden in the park? (2) Will a local construction business help with the playground installation? (3) Is a local restaurant willing to contribute food or bring a food truck to an grand opening event? ## **Celebrate and reflect.** Celebrate your community contribution! Perhaps your project has come to completion or maybe it will span into the next school year. Either way, allow students to reflect on what they have achieved so far and celebrate where they are going. Give students space to reflect on their experiences as community members and their ideas for future community involvement as they emerge as community leaders. *Example*: Discuss what went well and what didn’t. Ask students what they would do differently if they did the project again. Discuss what students learned about potential career paths and how this relates to their goals for future community involvement. Student-led school-community engagement can take flight in many directions and is appropriate at all grade levels. Start with a small group of students who can benefit from increased community engagement to test the waters if you’re not ready for a school-wide or grade level project, and allow students to take ownership of the process. This type of project can help students identify their own strengths and spark interest in community employment as well as bring about positive school outcomes. What community engagement projects have your students done? What does this process look like for you? Let us know in the comments! ![Students of all ages have the capacity to be engaged community members. Use these 8 steps to energize your students to create school-community engagement.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Slide2-1-196x300.jpg) ![Students of all ages have the capacity to be engaged community members. Use these 8 steps to energize your students to create school-community engagement.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Slide3-1-196x300.jpg) **Categories:** Your Program **Tags:** events, relationship building, school counseling program --- ### [Conversations: What Do You Do for Self-Care?](https://confidentcounselors.com/conversations-self-care/) **Published:** August 25, 2017 **Author:** The School Counselor Is In, Laurie P Mendoza and Speckled Moose Counseling **Content:** One of the perks and necessities of our job is having a break during the summer to reset and get ready for another year. We have the space to reflect, enjoy some daylight, and drink coffee for pleasure rather than survival. Check out some great ideas for self-care from Gretchen from [Speckled Moose Counseling](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Speckled-Moose-Counseling), Laurie from [School Counseling Files](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com/), and Jodi from [The School Counselor Is In](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-School-Counselor-Is-In). \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] [![The School Counselor Is In](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/theschoolcounselorisin3.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-School-Counselor-Is-In)I strongly believe that self-care for counselors is so important.When you feel stressed or exhausted you have a limited amount of energy to give to others. Making your own well being a priority is a must! I do my best to make an effort to include some sort of self-care activity on a weekly basis.It does take time and planning but it is so worth it. Summer is a perfect time to recharge your batteries. I really enjoy the friendships I’ve made with my co-workers. I found that I missed them over the summer. So, a few years ago my co-workers and I started doing Windridge (our school name) Wednesday. The last week of school, we get together to plan our self-care summer schedule.We have done activities such as lunch, movies, hikes, short road trips, river rafting etc. It has been such a great way to reduce stress and have FUN! [The School Counselor Is In](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-School-Counselor-Is-In) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] [![School Counseling Files](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/School-Counseling-Files-Round.png)](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com/)While I always manage to squeeze in a 3-day trip to an island in Maine with my extended family, I mostly recharge by changing my routine and checking things off my to-do list: I put together the new resources I’ve created throughout the year for my TpT store, work on my creative writing, and add content to my website. I clean the closets and wash the curtains. This year I’ll be working on publishing my first picture book. My summers may not be heavy on what other people consider “self-care,” but I feel good about being productive and am always excited about returning to school. Laurie Mendoza, [School Counseling Files](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com/) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] [![Speckled Moose Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/speckledmoose.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Speckled-Moose-Counseling)My summer self-care activities have changed over the years. I used to challenge myself with different activities to stretch myself, from 5ks to sprint triathlons to home improvement projects. Now with young children, I find myself needing this time to slow down and simplify. Summer is my opportunity to regroup from the mental overload that occurs every school year. I’m able to eliminate the constant thoughts about things that need to be done for students and school, and instead focus on simpler activities like taking my children to the parks, going to the local farmer’s markets, eating outside, and even cleaning out and organizing my home. Using this time to reorganize, regroup, and refocus helps me return to school in the fall in an energized state. Gretchen, from [Speckled Moose Counseling](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Speckled-Moose-Counseling) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] ## How are you taking care of yourself before school? ## How do you take care of yourself during the year? ![Confident Counselors Conversation - Self Care with School Counseling Files, Speckled Moose Counseling, and The School Counselor Is In](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/5-683x1024.jpg) **Take care of yourself so you can take care of others.** **[Fill Up Your Cup from Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/11/27/fill-cup-self-care-real-life/)** **[Importance of Self Care from Kiddie Matters](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/05/08/importance-practicing-self-care/)** **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Self Care **Tags:** CC tips, School Counseling Files, self care, Speckled Moose Counseling, The School Counselor Is In --- ### [Conversations: What are you doing for Attendance Awareness Month?](https://confidentcounselors.com/attendance-awareness-month/) **Published:** August 28, 2017 **Author:** Little Miss Counselor and The DIY Counselor **Content:** Attendance awareness month is a great way to start your year. It emphasizes to students that being present at school is the first and necessary step. Find out what [Little Miss Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor) and [The DIY Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor) do at their schools. **What are you doing for Attendance Awareness Month?** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] [![Little Miss Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/13814598_984575921664069_217302344_n-300x268.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor)Attendance Awareness is huge at my school! We do everything from celebrating an attendance themed spirit week to sending out Class Dojo messages about attendance! The most important thing I start with is parent education during Kindergarten parent orientation where I explain our attendance policy, the importance of kids coming on time, and our positive incentive program called [Attendance Hero School Wide Program](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Attendance-Hero-Editable-School-Wide-Kit-2076391). Kindergarten is the perfect time to start addressing attendance concerns even though many states, including my own, do not mandate Kindergarten. Many parents assume that kindergarten attendance is just like daycare or preschool where kids can be dropped off anytime in the morning, picked up early without penalty, and take vacations throughout the year. The truth is that too many absences in kindergarten or any grade can create academic gaps, but without equipping parents with that knowledge, they often make the assumption that it’s okay to miss school. I urge parents to let me know if there’s a medical issue, extreme separation anxiety, or something else I can proactively help them with as the year begins. –[Little Miss Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] [![The DIY Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n-300x300.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor)Classroom attendance is a huge priority in my school for several reasons. The state has compulsory attendance laws that affect all students. School funding is given to the local school district based on daily attendance. I work in a school with amazing parental support. For a large percentage of students, regular school attendance is not an issue, but there is that small percentage of students who are chronically out of school. I address attendance concerns in multiple ways. Parent contact is essential in improving school attendance, as well as collaboration with the school nurse and teachers. I have individual meetings with students to help them identify reasons for missing school and develop a plan of action to improve school attendance. Small groups are another avenue to address chronic absenteeism. I have also developed an attendance protocol to aid teachers in documenting specific interventions for chronically out of school students. Attendance in school is vital for student achievement. As school counselors, we have a voice to promote positivity in attendance awareness. A great resource to use in addressing attendance is [Attendance Works](http://www.attendanceworks.org/). –[The DIY Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] ![Attendance Awareness month tips from confident counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/9-200x300.jpg) **What are you doing for Attendance Awareness Month?** **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Your Program **Tags:** attendance, CC tips, Little Miss Counselor, The DIY Counselor --- ### [5 Classroom Management Strategies for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-classroom-management-strategies-school-counselors/) **Published:** September 5, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Chelsey **Content:** Classroom management is challenging. It can be even more difficult to perfect when you only see the students once a week, at most. As school counselors, we often don’t have the time to implement intricate classroom management strategies when we are doing small groups or classroom guidance lessons. Here are some of my favorite tips to help keep students calm and focused during your counseling lessons. ## Strategy 1: Set Expectations This may seem somewhat obvious, but setting clear expectations for behavior can be easily forgotten when you are trying to get through a lot of material in a limited amount of time. With the need to cover so much of the curriculum so quickly, talking about appropriate behavior can be the first thing to go. However, it is one of the most crucial components of your lessons. If students’ behaviors are getting in the way of what you are teaching, their learning is limited. One of my favorite ways to set expectations with students is to have them set their own expectations. Bring a large piece of paper or use a chalk/white board and ask the students what they think the expectations should be during your lesson. Write them down and keep the agreement posted throughout all of your lessons with those students. This helps to create student buy-in, and helps students to show ownership of their behavior. ## Strategy 2: **Point System** The point system has been by far my favorite classroom management technique. To start, I have the students create their own lists of expected and appropriate behavior during my lessons. Explain to them that when they are caught showing positive behavior and meeting the expectations, they will get a point. ![Point System](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Point-System-Photo-300x199.png)I let students earn points for positive behavior. I keep track of the points in a visible spot for added motivation! After they earn 5 points, I offer some sort of positive reward. I have used candy, 2 minutes of talk time, letting them choose their own seats, watching a fun video, etc. I do not take away points for negative behavior, but I do take away points if they ask me about their points. Nothing is more frustrating than constant interruptions of “Ms. Chelsey, can we get a point?” “How many points do we have?” Not today, kids. Not today. I love this system because it really allows the kids to be accountable to themselves and to each other. I explain that how often they earn their reward is completely up to them. Many times I have seen the students encouraging each other to have positive behavior so that they can earn a point, which is a total win. ## Strategy 3: **Secret Student** I love to use this classroom management strategy during especially difficult times for the students, such as transitions, or when I ask them to sit quietly for a while. Select a student and write his/her name on a piece of paper before I start. I tell the students that I have a secret student in mind, and that if that student has positive behavior during the lesson, he/she will earn some type of positive reinforcement such as to pick his/her seat, a piece of candy, a special job, etc. At the end of the time, I decide whether or not the student I selected has met the expectations. If the student has, he/she earns the positive reinforcement. If not, I do not reveal who the student is, only that the expectations were not met. This is very helpful because it encourages all of the students to have positive behavior just in case they are the secret student! ## Strategy 4: **Seat Numbers** Because of lack of seating in my counseling office when I first started, I often didn’t have enough seats for the students in my small groups. Instead, we all had to sit on the floor. To me, this was a classroom management nightmare. Students didn’t have their own clearly defined space. They argued over where to sit and spent much of the time rolling around on the floor instead of listening. Something had to be done. Then I had the idea of providing seat numbers. ![Classroom Management Strategies for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Numbered-Seating-300x200.png)I taped seat numbers to the floor to help manage students’ behaviors during group lessons. Such a simple strategy was so helpful I cut some standard computer paper in half and numbered them. I then taped them to the floor in a circle. As the students came in, I gave them a number, and they were to sit on the piece of paper that corresponded with their number. I always saved number one for me, so that the kids didn’t argue over it. Another benefit of this strategy was that it helped me to be in control of who sits next to who. Also, if students got out of their spaces during the lesson, I could just instruct them to sit back on their number. Thankfully, I eventually got more seating options and no longer had to do my groups on the floor, but this classroom management strategy was so good that I couldn’t let it go. I just put the numbers on the seats instead of the floor! ## Strategy 5: **Praise Around The Negative Behavior** Regardless of how many classroom management procedures and systems you put in place, there are still students that can be difficult at times. When students are struggling to have positive behavior, one of my favorite strategies is to praise around that student. If two students are talking, I verbally praise the students in the room that are not talking. This catches the attention of the student who is struggling and encourages them to exhibit positive behavior. I can also provide positive feedback to those students who are doing what is expected. Finding effective classroom management strategies as a school counselor can be challenging. I hope these 5 tips will help you to feel more confident about managing your students’ behaviors so they can ready to learn and focused on your lessons! **What are some of your favorite classroom management strategies?** ![5 Classroom Management Strategies for School Counselors. These 5 classroom management tips will help school counselors to help students be on track and focused during small groups or classroom guidance lessons.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Pinterest-Photo-672x1024.png) **Categories:** Behavior, Classroom Management **Tags:** classroom lessons, classroom management --- ### [Conversations: Do You Set Program Goals for the Year?](https://confidentcounselors.com/set-program-goals/) **Published:** September 1, 2017 **Author:** School Counselor Stephanie, Counselor Corner and School Counseling is Magical **Content:** We set and work on goals with our students. We should do the same for ourselves and our school counseling programs. Check out how Stephanie from [Bilingual Learner](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Stephanie-Lerner-Bilingual-Learner), Tobin from [Counselor Corner](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Corner), and Leah from [School Counseling is Magical](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counseling-Is-Magical) set program goals as school counselors. **Do you set program goals for the year?** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/SchoolCounselorStephanie.png)Throughout the school year, I keep a running list of any changes and additions I want to make in my counseling program- I call it my “Things to Change Next Year” list. Anytime I have a revelation about something that might work better for me and my students, I write it on the list. Then at the end of the school year, I group the list (which is usually 5-10 pages long!!) into main topics like guidance lessons, groups, etc. From these topics, I am able to analyze my biggest areas for growth and make a few SMART goals from them that I focus on the following school year. Here’s a link to my TPT store where many of the resources there first started out on this list: – [School Counselor Stephanie](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counselor-Stephanie?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Store%20link) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] [![Counselor Corner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/CounselorCorner.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Stephanie-Lerner-Bilingual-Learner)Keeping my goals in sight is essential to ensuring the success and growth of my school counseling program. Here is a glimpse of the format I use to set my yearly goals: 1. Break down major focus areas into main categories (Classroom Lessons, Small Groups, Individual Services, etc). 2. Within the category, list the objective/strategy/target (Lesson Topic, Group Type, Individual Referral Focus, etc). 3. For each objective goal, designate a timeline for completion, list necessary ‘ingredients’ for completion, and document tool/data source/measurement for completion. 4. Create a “Running Log” to serve as a living document to keep notes, ideas, reminders, etc; use this as an ongoing goal-setting & growth tool. Hope you find these goal-setting ideas useful for you too! I’ve got other great organization tools at my TPT store as well: Tobin Keeth from [Counselor Corner](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Corner) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] [![School Counseling is Magical](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/school-counseling-is-magical.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counseling-Is-Magical)Before planning for the upcoming school year, I take a moment to think about the previous school year went for me. I go back and look at my previous goals and the successes I had. I also think about what I wish I had done better and areas that I struggled with. Next, I use this information to make a list of programming that I want to keep exactly as it, programming I want to modify/add, and programming that I want to discontinue. From this list, I create SMART goals for programming for the upcoming year. I like to color code. I might use one color sticky note for the goal, different colored sticky notes for the specific steps needed to reach the goal, and a third color sticky note if I need to break steps into smaller steps. Every time I complete a step, I would remove the sticky note. Once all stick notes are removed, voila! I have reached that goal. It’s a great visual for me and it keeps me motivated to continue working toward those goals throughout the year. – Leah Molloy from [School Counseling is Magical](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counseling-Is-Magical) ![Setting program goals with School Counseling is Magical, Counseling Corner, and Bilingual Learner](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/7-200x300.jpg) **Other Helpful Posts** [Digital Needs Assessment](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/05/09/creating-a-school-counseling-needs-assessment-using-google-forms/) from Kate at Edukate & Inspire [Setting SMART Goals in Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/21/smart-goals-counseling/) from Laura at Social Emotional Workshop **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Your Program **Tags:** Counselor Corner, School Counseling Is Magical, school counseling program, School Counselor Stephanie, setting goals --- ### [5 Steps to Handle a Student Crisis](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-steps-handling-student-crisis-plus-suicide-prevention-resources/) **Published:** September 14, 2017 **Author:** School Counselor Stephanie **Content:** ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/dog-sigh-300x198.jpg)There are so many wonderful aspects of being a school counselor; however, handling student crises can be a large and emotionally draining part of the school counselor’s job. As a result, it is important to have clear and effective protocols in place to handle a student crisis. Suicide prevention is another crucial part of every school counseling program and effective prevention strategies can help a school minimize the number of student crises that occur. I feel prepared and confident with these 5 effective steps to handle a student crisis. # Three Indicators of a Student Crisis ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/kid-hands.jpg)At my school, we have a set protocol to handle a student crisis and the first part of this protocol involves defining exactly what makes a student crisis. We follow The Association for Children’s Mental Health crisis definition which states that “a crisis situation exists any time that \[the\] child is no longer safe to himself or others…” We translate this into kid language by teaching students the 3 crisis indicators below. Whenever a student, parent, or staff member, comes to us with a student crisis, we drop whatever we are doing to deal with it right away. An important part of our counseling program includes training our students and staff about what constitutes a crisis and how they MUST come straight to us if they encounter one. Here is a link to [my beginning of the year guidance lesson](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meet-Your-Counselor-An-Introductory-Guidance-Lesson-3553793) that carefully details crisis protocol to students. The following conditions constitute a student crisis: - **Someone has or will physically hurt you (including threats)** - **You have or will physically hurt someone else** - **You have or will physically hurt yourself** # Crisis Protocol Steps At the Title 1 public school where I work as a school counselor, we handled over 200 student crises during last school year. So for us, as for all school counselors, having a clear set of steps to follow is a crucial part of keeping students safe while they are in crisis. Below are the basic steps to follow in any crisis situation involving a student. 1. **Immediately interview a student who made crisis outcry to identify crisis type and severity.** 2. **Notify parent/guardian or child protective services and campus admin of crisis.** 3. **Assist family or school/community personnel with crisis intervention (e.g., providing** outside **counseling referrals).** 4. **Submit a crisis report to admin for documentation purposes.** 5. **Follow-up with the student within 48 hours after crisis intervention.** ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/logo-official-w-border-294x300.png)Obviously, the above steps are simplified and require a lot more details on how to handle each type of crisis differently. For that reason, I’ve included detailed crisis intervention steps and resources on [my blog resource page](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/resources-links/) in case you don’t have a process for students who make serious outcries. You will find my emergency parent notification form and my student safety plan on my homepage. # Suicide Prevention Resources [![MORE THAN SAD](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/morethansad.jpg)](http://www.sprc.org/resources-programs/more-sad-suicide-prevention-education-teachers-and-other-school-personnel)***More Than Sad is a suicide prevention education resource for school staff. Download it for free from the Suicide Prevention Resource Center.*** Another reality that counselors have to deal with is suicide prevention. Suicidal Ideation is defined by the US Center for Disease Control as thinking about, considering, or planning suicide. This ideation is something that counselors will eventually come into contact with as they treat their students/clients. For that reason, I’d like to include some of the best resources that can help support students, families, and counselors. - Click on the picture to the left for a link to an amazing free suicide prevention manual, specially created for school personnel that you can download. - Another resource I want to share is from one of my favorite online video resources, Wellcast. [Here is their wonderful, wonderful video to share with anyone you know who is battling thoughts of suicide.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IqqIV8x82Qc) - The American Foundation for Suicide has a model school suicide prevention program that is just amazing! [Take a look at it here.](https://afsp.org/our-work/education/model-school-policy-suicide-prevention/) - Since I’m in Texas, I have to give a shout-out the Texas Suicide Safer Schools, a 100-page free document that lays out the most comprehensive school-wide suicide prevention program that I’ve seen. And I’ve seen a lot of them! - [Confident Counselors’ Best Practices](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/suicide-prevention-best-practices/) is a collection of great resources for suicide prevention. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/stress-guid-lesson-rev-300x300.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Give-Stress-a-Rest-Growth-Mindset-Guidance-Lesson-2877556) Prevention and having an effective protocol in place are key interventions to keeping students safe in school. Hopefully, the resources above can give you a good start for this! Additionally, this [stress management guidance lesson](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Give-Stress-a-Rest-Growth-Mindset-Guidance-Lesson-on-Stress-Management-3499614?aref=6dlsc5m4) can help strengthen your prevention piece. Please comment below to share any strategies/interventions you have for helping a child in crisis– the more tools we all have to help kids, the better! **![How to Handle a student crisis in 5 effective steps](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Pin-5-Steps-Crisis-683x1024.png)** **Categories:** Crisis Response **Tags:** crisis response, suicide prevention --- ### [5 School Counseling Office Must Haves](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-office-must-haves/) **Published:** September 7, 2017 **Author:** The Counseling Teacher Brandy **Content:** Environment matters. From the office walls to your desktop, what you put in your school counseling office sets the tone for your relationship with your students. How do you make your students feel welcome? What do you want your students to be doing and thinking when they come into your office? For me, it’s all about feeling calm, trusted, and invited. There are five must-have items in my office. These are the items that I rely on the most when a student walks in my door. # School Counseling Office Must-Haves ## Fidget Tools ![Fidget toys are a school counseling office must-have](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Slide07-1.jpg) Students will open up and communicate more effectively when they are able to “play” with something instead of focusing completely on you. Desktop puzzles, magnet toys, stacking objects, and any random object that you can hold and manipulate will do. [Kinetic sand](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01867E3E2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B01867E3E2&linkCode=as2&tag=thecounseli0d-20&linkId=f62c3db0bce0c598da57b6f9c96dc454) and [play-doh](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JM5GZGW/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00JM5GZGW&linkCode=as2&tag=thecounseli0d-20&linkId=8dbf39671c42ee88f28088c528c51899) are probably my favorite fidgets. While the sand stays in my office for individual counseling, I like to take containers of play-doh to my classroom lessons to use as a reward for good behavior. As long as they are listening and paying attention, I allow students to manipulate one container of play-doh at their desk during portions of a lesson. The idea came from our Spanish teacher. She keeps a huge box of play-doh in her classroom. It is a calming activity that helps with longer lessons. Coloring books, sketch pads and journals fall into this category because they allow students to use their hands in a meaningful way. While coloring, many students begin to feel more comfortable opening up and talking about their feelings. I have a fun little [mindful book](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mindfulness-Booklet-Escape-to-Mindful-Island-4224446) that I throw into my fidget toolbox. [![mindfulness workbook](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/46837491_731616200537694_7237223024238264320_n-1024x1024.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mindfulness-Booklet-Escape-to-Mindful-Island-4224446) ## Stress Balls ![Stress Balls for your Counseling Office](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Slide02.jpg) Another fun tool for your office is stress balls. I have started buying these online in bulk. Visitors really like to keep them and they are very helpful for those with anxiety. Seeing a big box of fresh [stress balls](http://amzn.to/2w8oqLT) on my desk at the beginning of the year gets me excited. They are my peace offering to visitors. ## Sound Machine [![a sound machine is a school counseling office must-have](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Slide07.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075FGPPVR/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B075FGPPVR&linkCode=as2&tag=thecounseli0d-20&linkId=207755bcee670d72194c7f196638c2d5) Tapping into all of the senses keeps us grounded. Subtle lighting and soothing noise are important for creating a calm environment. We never know when somebody is going to charge in with a crisis (student or teacher). Walking into the sound of a rain forest or ocean waves will instantly bring you down a notch. However, I have to be careful not to get too sleepy, though, especially in the afternoon. Which makes sense because mine is actually a sleep machine from Bed, Bath, & Beyond. It is designed to slow you down and it does a great job of that. Incidentally, you can also just use your phone to play any spa playlist from Youtube. Although not as convenient, it has worked for me in the past. ## Confidentiality Signs ![Counselor Confidentiality Signs are a school counseling office must-have](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Slide06-1.jpg) These are essential in establishing the expectations of your sessions with students. It should be one of the first things you discuss with students. Furthermore, having them displayed on the wall in front of my desk is critical in helping me to remember to go over the confidentiality rules with students. **Download the signs shown above here: [Confidentiality Signs](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Counselor-Confidentiality-Signs-1813076?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=Office%20Must%20Haves%20092017)** ## Clipboards [![Clipboards are walking desktops. A definite school counseling office must-have.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Slide09.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MFGICQT/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B01MFGICQT&linkCode=as2&tag=thecounseli0d-20&linkId=2bb110fae4474738c9f2c5ea11b67de9) Finally, interruptions are a big part of a school counselor’s day. Clipboards are my walking desktop. I especially love the ones with a dry erase surface! I can keep business cards and flyers in one for impromptu school tours. Another one has a to-do list for those times when somebody stops me in the hall to ask for assistance with a student. **I’d love to know your school counseling office must-haves. Please comment with your ideas!** ***Disclosure**: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click the link and purchase the item, we will receive a small commission.* Watch the video: [School Counselor Office Finds](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gwfBg4byjI) ![5 school counseling office must-haves. Stress ball, sounds machine, confidentiality signs, fidgets, and clipboards are necessary for any school counselor. ](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Slide03-455x1024.jpg) Save Save Save Save Save Save Save Save **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Your Office **Tags:** supplies --- ### [Conversations: How Do You Plan and Stay Organized?](https://confidentcounselors.com/conversations-plan-stay-organized/) **Published:** September 8, 2017 **Author:** The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store, Little Miss Counselor and Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor **Content:** Counselors who plan and stay organized found the key to being a counselor who looks and feels confident. I always love hearing new tips and tricks from other counselors. Check out these gems from [The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store), [Little Miss Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor), and [Mrs Bell The Crafty Counselor.](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor) **How do you plan and stay organized as a school counselor?** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] [![The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store)I love to organize!! By best tip for being organized for the NEXT school year is to start early. I go into work over the summer and make photocopies of all my anticipated class lessons and group materials for the school year. Then I organize these copies by grade level, topic and lesson order. I also laminate manila file folders labeled Monday-Friday and place in a file organizer. This allows for me to quickly and easily plan for 1 week of lessons at a time. To always stay ahead of things, after at the end of each day, I put the copies I will need for the next week for that day in the file folder. This may sound complex, but in the end it saves so much time and I am always prepared. – [The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store.](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] [![Little Miss Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/13814598_984575921664069_217302344_n-300x268.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor)I have two bulletin boards that I update monthly; one features my school’s monthly character trait and the other one displays different student initiatives such as Attendance month, Red Ribbon Week, etc. During the summer I plan in advance what character traits and student initiatives we will celebrate. I plan what the bulletin boards will say, pick out matching trim, letters, and decorations. Then I place each planned bulletin board into a Ziplock bag then stuff it inside a transparency sleeve in a binder. It saves me so much time and I don’t have to put much effort all year-long into planning my bulletin boards! [Little Miss Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] [![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor)I plan all my guidance lessons in advance, it saves me so much time during the year. I look at the district’s character trait of the month and plan a lesson that relates to each trait. I plan one lesson for grades K-2 and one for grades 3-5. I print out the lesson resources and place the materials in a folder which I label by grade and month. When it comes time to teach, all I have left to do is make the necessary amount of copies. I love having such a big task done before the year starts. It allows me more time to focus on small groups and the last minute issues that pop-up during the day. – [Mrs Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] ![School counselors need to plan and stay organized to be effective.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/1-1-200x300.jpg) **How do you plan and stay organized?** [How to have an organized first week](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/09/organized-first-week/) from Bilingual Learner [3 Organization Tips for a Great Year](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/07/26/school-counselor-organization/) from Counselor Up **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Organization **Tags:** CC tips, Little Miss Counselor, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, organization, Sunny Sunshine Store --- ### [5 School Counseling Activities Using Play Doh](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-ways-to-use-play-doh-in-school-counseling/) **Published:** September 12, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Keri **Content:** Students light up the moment Play Doh appears in any school setting, and school counseling is no exception. Play Doh is not only a great sensory tool that puts students at ease when discussion potentially difficult topics, but it is the perfect creative outlet to engage students in individual and small group counseling to explore feelings, family changes, and more! Read below to explore 5 ways you can use Play Doh in school counseling. # 5 Ways to Use Play Doh in School Counseling ## Build a Feelings Caterpillar ![School Counseling Activities: 5 ways to use Play Doh in school counseling: feelings identification, family changes, anger release, mandalas, and more](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/1-300x167.png) This activity is a simple but fun way to engage students in an individual or small group setting. Use this activity to get to know your students or explore differences among group members. All you’ll need is a variety of Play Doh colors and your question set. Place your Play Doh balls in the center of the table within reach of all students. Explain that each color represents a different feeling, and label the colors with note cards (i.e. red Play Doh represents anger, blue Play Doh represents sadness, etc.). Begin by reading a scenario (ex: Someone laughed at me when I got a question wrong). Instruct students to choose the color that represents how they would feel in the stated scenario. Students will pinch a small piece of Play Doh and roll it into a ball to create a segment of the caterpillar. Give students a chance to share why they chose that color. Read another scenario, and instruct students to do the same by adding the next ball to create caterpillar segments. After you have read all of the scenarios, talk about the similarities and differences in each group member’s caterpillar. Talk about how in the same situation, different people might experience different feelings! ## Practice Building Facial Expressions ![School Counseling Activities: 5 ways to use Play Doh in school counseling: feelings identification, family changes, anger release, mandalas, and more](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/2-300x167.png) [Feeling mats](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Emotion-Mats-for-Feeling-Identification-and-Facial-Expression-Practice-3358746?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=KP%20%7C%20Play%20Doh%20Mats) have many uses in school counseling. Laminate them (or use page protectors) for easy reuse with Play Doh, and you’re ready to explore feelings! Give students feeling mats and Play Doh to create facial expressions that represent how they’re feeling right now or how they feel in given situations. [These are a great tool](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Emotion-Mats-for-Feeling-Identification-and-Facial-Expression-Practice-3358746?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=KP%20%7C%20Play%20Doh%20Mats) for check-in/check-out or for I-statement practice. ## Smash to Release Anger ![School Counseling Activities: 5 ways to use Play Doh in school counseling: feelings identification, family changes, anger release, mandalas, and more](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/3-300x167.png) Play Doh is also a great tool for teaching appropriate release of anger. Give your student a ball of Play Doh and model how to smash it with your fist and then knead it in your hands. Remind students that it is perfectly okay to feel anger! Smashing Play Doh, rather than other inappropriate objects, is a great way to release tension and then continue to engage the senses to calm down afterward. ## Talk About Families ![School Counseling Activities: 5 ways to use Play Doh in school counseling: feelings identification, family changes, anger release, mandalas, and more](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/4-300x167.png) Use Play Doh and people cookie cutters to explore families. Have your students cut out the people who are in their families and arrange the people in a way that makes sense to them. Ask your students to explain the positions of the family members, colors they chose to use, and other variables as a way to explore family dynamics and the students’ feelings about changes that may be occurring in the family. If you don’t have people cookie cutters, simply have students build their family members with Play Doh! This will also give you a greater opportunity to explore the sizes of family members, features included/excluded, and more. ## Create a Mandala ![School Counseling Activities: 5 ways to use Play Doh in school counseling: feelings identification, family changes, anger release, mandalas, and more](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/5-300x167.png) For a creative activity that can be as simple or as complex as you wish, have your students create a Play Doh mandala. [Mandala is a Sanskrit word meaning circle](http://www.mandalaproject.org/What/Main.html) that represents wholeness. Mandalas have a center focus point with symmetry around the center and are becoming a more commonly used tool for [emotional processing, calming, insight, and confidence](http://www.centrum-mandala.cz/en/mandala). Provide students with Play Doh and a variety of beads, seeds, gems, rocks, etc. to create a circular design. Give students lots of freedom to create a design that is meaningful to them! You can also lead students through a mindfulness activity using their mandalas. Instruct students to focus on the whole mandala, noticing how it looks and how they feel while looking at it. Then instruct students to move their focus inward to the center. Engage senses by having students touch the items they used to create the mandala and focus on the feeling of each of the items. For take-home mandalas, dry out the Play Doh for a few days or bake it on parchment paper at a low temperature. Engaging students’ senses and with Play Doh can provide a sense of comfort and safety as students broach difficult topics and feelings within the school counseling setting. How do you encourage your students to share and express themselves with Play Doh in school counseling? Let us know in the comments! We love hearing from you! For more ways to ingrate everyday supplies into your school counseling program, check out these posts on using [coffee filters](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/02/05/5-ways-use-coffee-filters-school-counseling/), [paper bags](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/16/school-counseling-crafts-lunch-bags/), [rocks](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/05/08/free-counseling-activities-rocks/), [tissue boxes](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/03/06/tissue-boxes-in-counseling/), and [toilet paper tubes](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/5-ways-tp-crafts-school-counseling/) in school counseling! ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/WatermarkColor-300x100.png) ![School Counseling Activities: 5 ways to use Play Doh in school counseling: feelings identification, family changes, anger release, mandalas, and more](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/1-1.png)![School Counseling Activities: 5 ways to use Play Doh in school counseling: feelings identification, family changes, anger release, mandalas, and more](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/2-1.png)![School Counseling Activities: 5 ways to use Play Doh in school counseling: feelings identification, family changes, anger release, mandalas, and more](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/A-cozy-hotel-with-art-decorated-rooms-hammocks-and-hearty-meals.png) **Categories:** Counsel It Yourself (CIY), Quick Activities **Tags:** counseling activities --- ### [Self-Care for School Counselors: How To Prioritize Your Day](https://confidentcounselors.com/self-care-for-school-counselors-how-to-prioritize-your-day/) **Published:** September 18, 2017 **Author:** EduKate & Inspire **Content:** It is no secret that school counselors wear A LOT of hats throughout the school year. We are stretched in many different directions and can be left feeling “spent” by the end of each day. Self-care for school counselors can be a challenge. Although counselors are great at encouraging *others* to practice self-care, it can be difficult to put it into practice in our own lives. When we take the time to rest, recharge, and practice self-care, we become more effective at helping others. When I think about self-care, I always think about the airline safety analogy. In the event of an emergency, we are always instructed to put on our own oxygen mask before helping others. Self-care works the same way. If our own tank is depleted, we become ineffective at helping others. By taking the time to prioritize our days, we can create extra time to focus on our personal wellness. # Using a 24-Hour Pie Chart to Prioritize Your Day Perhaps the biggest challenge when it comes to self-care is how to structure your day. Without a plan in place, your days can quickly fade away leading to wasted time and a feeling of disappointment. Does every day need to be structured? No way! But creating a plan for the majority of your days can help you to stay focused and feel good about how you spend your time. The first step to create a self-care plan is to think about your average day. I am a visual learner and data junkie. One helpful strategy I use is to create a 24-hour pie chart to map out at an average day. I find that this strategy helps me to see where each hour of the day is going, which leads to a lot less wasted time. Since work days greatly differ from the weekend, it also helps to make two different charts to track your time. You can make your own 24 Hour Pie Chart by clicking on the image below! [![Self-Care for School Counselors: How to Prioritize Your Day](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/IMG_1184-300x300.jpg)](https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1WLEeCSy4Cyj_bGu70Q6lmf0_nRwf7BP9RdQKSPKIhKo/copy) # Self-Care Priorities and Domains I begin by listing my Top 5 Priorities on a sticky note. These are the areas that I want to be sure to focus on each day. Next, I think about all of the other areas that I spend time on during an average day. After I have a list of areas, I write the amount of time I would like to spend on each area. It is important to include the amount of hours that each area truly takes. For example, I plan 2 hours of exercise because I include showering and getting ready in that same block of time. After I have broken down my day into areas and times, I divide each time by 24 to determine what percent of a day it will take. For example, if I spend 2 hours on exercising and getting ready, that equals about 8% of a day. When you add up all of the percents, you will see how much “spare time” you have left in your day for miscellaneous tasks and relaxation! When planning your extra time, try to think of activities that you enjoy in each of the 5 self-care domains: intellectual, physical, spiritual, social, and emotional. Here are some of the ways I like to spend my time: Intellectual: Reading (both for fun and for [professional growth](http://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/2016/06/summer-reading-for-school-counselors.html)), writing [blog](http://bit.ly/EduKateBlog) posts, and creating [resources](http://bit.ly/EduKateTPT) for other counselors Physical: Running, Pure Barre, and hot yoga Spiritual: Reading scripture, praying, and volunteering Social: Meeting friends for coffee chats and spending time with my niece and nephew Emotional: Journaling and painting # Reflecting on Your Day A key part of prioritizing your day is reflecting after the day is done. How did you do following your plan? Try asking yourself the following questions: 1. Did I spend as much time on my priorities as I had planned? 2. What stands in the way of spending my time wisely? 3. What is one thing I can change about my day to have it go better tomorrow? Although planning ahead is great, it is important to give yourself grace. If you are like me, your “to do” list can quickly become overwhelming. Recently, I flipped my mindset and instead of focusing on everything I needed to DO, I celebrated what I got DONE. This summer, I used a chalkboard in my bedroom to create a “done” list to write down things I had accomplished throughout the summer. By the end of summer, I had a huge list to celebrate! # More Self-Care Resources Interested in learning more about self-care? Check out [The Importance of Self-Care](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/05/08/importance-practicing-self-care/#comments) written by Confident Counselor, Kiddie Matters. Visit Counselor Up’s blog to read about [That Thing School Counselors Don’t Talk About](http://www.counselorup.com/blog/that-thing-we-dont-talk-about) and learn about the steps to take when faced with challenging situations at work. Get your school year organized with a [Digital Counseling Binder](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Digital-Counseling-Binder-Google-Drive-3244782) to help you become more efficient and save extra time for self-care. ## **What strategies do you use to practice self-care? We would love to hear from you in the comments below!** ![School Counselor Self-Care](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Summer-Self-Care-Pin.png) **Categories:** Counselor Role, Self Care **Tags:** counselor schedule, self care --- ### [What Can't You Live Without in Your School Counseling Office?](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselor-office-must-haves/) **Published:** September 15, 2017 **Author:** Laurie P Mendoza, EduKate & Inspire and Counselor Keri and 1 more **Content:** Do you have something in your office you can’t live without? I don’t mean the drawer of candy. I mean those items that would make you feel less than confident if they disappeared. Check out these school counselor office must haves! I have some new ones on my list. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] [![School Counseling Files](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/School-Counseling-Files-Round.png)](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com)Using [an idea from Gretchen at Speckled Moose Counseling](http://speckledmoosecounseling.blogspot.com/2016/04/small-group-structure-for-elementary.html?m=1), I’ve made a feelings check-in chart. I hung a clear shoe organizer on the wall and clipped a [feelings flash card](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Feelings-Flash-Cards-3-2361296) to each of the 24 pockets. Every kid I see decorates a giant popsicle stick. Every time they come in they find their stick and place it in the pocket that matches how they’re feeling. [![Feelings Bulletin Board from Speckled Moose Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Feelings-Bulletin-Board.jpg)](http://speckledmoosecounseling.blogspot.com/2016/04/small-group-structure-for-elementary.html?m=1) They all automatically go to check in when they arrive at my office, and many of them move their popsicle sticks again before they leave (usually to “happy” if they weren’t already there). Kids who come in randomly often ask if they can decorate a popsicle stick too. It’s a quick and easy way to get kids to think about how they’re feeling and choose the appropriate word. **Laurie Mendoza,** **[School Counseling Files](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com/)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] [![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-300x300.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire)As a former 2nd grade teacher, I fell in love with using children’s books to teach important lessons. Children quickly relate to the characters in stories. This provides them with a unique way to understand the story’s message and apply it to their own lives. Now, as a school counselor, one resource I cannot live without is my collection of children’s books! Books in classroom lessons are an engaging way to introduce a new topic. I also use books in my small groups and have found that students love the small group atmosphere to discuss the story. I even use books one-on-one with students in individual sessions! We sit on the couch in my office as we read and discuss how the message in the story applies to the student’s life. For some of my students, this may be the only one-on-one reading time they get. To help me stay organized, I categorize all of the books in my office by topic. You can read more about how I use and organize my children’s books in [this post on my blog](http://bit.ly/EduKateLibrary). **Kate from [EduKate and Inspire](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] [![Mental Fills on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/mental-fills.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mental-Fills)When not attending meetings or providing groups and individual sessions, I live at my desk. Throughout the year, I am able to spend hours at a time completing paperwork, sending emails, playing on social media, and creating resources for TPT. Because I had become a pro at engaging in sedentary work habits, it was becoming easier for me to pack on pounds and feel down. In an effort to prevent this and keep up with my work, last year I found two game changing office essentials that I now refuse to go without- a [desk bike](http://amzn.to/2xht2Bc) and a [Light Box](http://amzn.to/2w2EEJv). I start my work day at 6:00 in the morning and my office lacks any natural light. I can substitute losing these important rays, by turning on my light box for 45 minutes every morning. While I catch up on emails, I place my feet in the bike pedals and burn away the calories. I have noted a significant improvement in my mood. Gone are the days that I feel guilty for not getting off my butt! I absolutely still benefit from getting up and going on walks, but these office essentials help me to feel good about myself when I need to finish important work. **[Robyn at Mental Fills](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mental-Fills)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] [![Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Counselor-Keri-.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri?utm_source=Confident%20Counselors&utm_campaign=Aug%20Confident%20Counselor%20Chat)It’s helpful to have of bin of sensory items for students to choose from, whether they’re coming to talk or need time to calm and refocus before returning to class. Seeing reluctant sharers open up as they engaged their senses convinced me that these items were counseling office must-haves! Some of my favorites are palm-sized massage balls, squishy gel pads, and Koosh balls. All of these items can be purchased from therapeutic toy retailers, made at home, or found in dollar stores. It’s always a good idea to have a couple of bins so you can swap them out for variety and when it’s time to clean the contents! **[Keri from Counselor Keri](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri?utm_source=Confident%20Counselors&utm_campaign=Aug%20Confident%20Counselor%20Chat)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] ![School Counselor Office Must Haves](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/4-1-683x1024.jpg) **What can’t you live without in your office?** [Ultimate School Counselor Supply List](https://confidentcounselors.com/?s=supply) **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Uncategorized, Your Office **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Keri, EduKate & Inspire, Mental Fills, School Counseling Files, supplies --- ### [6 Surefire Ways to Say No to Non-Counseling Duties](https://confidentcounselors.com/non-counseling-duties/) **Published:** September 25, 2017 **Author:** School Counselor Stephanie **Content:** As counselors, we are driven by nature to help, nurture, and solve problems. Therefore, most of us don’t like to say no to any request. This creates a problem because there are only so many hours in the day and we have more than enough counseling duties of our own to fill those hours. So, obviously there is no extra time for non-counseling duties. Below are several tips to strengthen your “saying no” skills in the most pleasant and professional manner possible. # **How to Stay in Your Lane** ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/MC900449062-300x274.jpg)Many of us have ratios or class sizes that far exceed what is recommended in the number of students we can effectively serve. As a result, we are always busy- planning for students, working with students, and following up with families. Therefore, saying no to excessive duties outside of our job role is a really important skill for all counselors to utilize. Below are six of the most effective ways to deflect those non-counseling duties. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/for-just-say-no-blog.jpg) ## 1. Be preventative. Lessen the number of times you have to say no to non-counseling duties by establishing your role with staff and administration upfront. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/pres-ppt-300x300.jpg)](https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1pdpLKcDLO2AkiEWRYeJenrnAd-y-GmqTWd7KYN7nlEc/edit?usp=sharing) Start the year off with a principal-counselor agreement to set out your role and duties with your administration. [Here is an excellent one from the American School Counseling Association – ASCA’s Annual Agreement.](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/school-counselors-members/asca-national-model/asca-national-model-templates) You can also educate staff and community about your role. I do this through staff presentations- you can download a free presentation template on my blog or check out my [previous post on Confident Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/30/present-counseling-program-role/). I also educate staff on my role through [newsletters](http://sites.dvisd.net/dvms-counselor/). If you need information on what the counselor role entails, [check out the national and state standards of professional best practice for school counselors to guide you](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/home/SCCompetencies.pdf). ## 2. Set clear boundaries. Give gentle, yet firm redirections to staff to reestablish the boundaries of your role and duties when they overstep them. [Here is a wonderful post from The Counseling Geek that highlights some ways to communicate these boundaries.](http://www.thecounselinggeek.com/2016/08/efficient-school-counselors.html) Offer to do something else instead which is within your appropriate role as a school counselor and/or something you are already doing. For example, if you are asked to discipline a student, you can instead offer to discuss with the student reasons for and alternatives to the behavior rather than actually handling the discipline. ## 3. Use data. Back up the importance of your boundaries, roles, and duties with data! [Here is a link to my Bilingual Learner post on data, “Tech in the ESL and Counseling Worlds.”](http://bilinguallearner.com/entries/general/tech-in-the-esl-counseling-worlds) ## 4. Respond to principal requests effectively. Your principal may ask you to do duties that are outside of your role as a counselor. That’s ok, it’s all about advocacy and education here! Respond to your principal’s non-counseling requests in the following pleasant, yet boundary-setting ways: “I am happy to help with that, but my day is filled with students. Will you take a look at my schedule with me and help me choose which students I can take off my schedule in order to do that task?” Of course, this means you must actually have a daily schedule that is full of students! [For help with setting this up, check out my post titled, “Back to School for Counselors.”](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/2016/07/26/back-to-school-for-esl-teachers-counselors-2/) After a few responses like this, the non-counseling requests usually lessen significantly. Keep in mind that in all professions everyone has a few fair share duties that may not relate to their job role. This is fine and actually is an important part of being a team player in the workplace. However, your fair share duties shouldn’t take up more than 5-10% of your time. Also keep in mind that when you first start working with your principal to lessen non-counseling duties, you may have to pick your battles. If your counseling job is full of non-counseling duties when you take the position, common sense tells us that no principal is going to respond well to you trying to clear all of them off your plate at once. ## 5. Respond to staff requests effectively. Use the following pleasant, yet boundary-setting responses to staff non-counseling requests on your time: “I am happy to be part of the team to accomplish that task. However, I don’t have any student responsibilities that I can give up. Therefore, I don’t have the time to do that task by myself or lead a team to complete the task.” Say no with a smile and use the positive sandwich: positive comment about request+refusal with an apology+positive comment about staff making request For example, “I really appreciate you thinking of me in order to help the school in this way. I’m so sorry but I just have no extra time in my day to squeeze that in. Thanks so much for taking care of our school the way you do!” And for those staff members that just cannot take no for an answer, you might try giving them a list of 3-5 tasks you need from them before you can do the task they are requesting of you. For example, if someone asks you to compile the At Risk report, you might tell them that first you need, in writing: a list of all students in the school, the state definitions of each At Risk indicator, and the duties expected of you as At-Risk Coordinator. ## 6. Stay busy and advertise it! [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Yearly-School-Counseling-Curriculum-Weekly-Schedule-cover-300x300.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Yearly-School-Counseling-Curriculum-and-Weekly-Schedule-3222875?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=Non-Counseling%20Duties%2009%2F2017)Display your weekly calendar that shows all your hourly duties. This calendar will show others what are actually doing at the time that someone requests that you do a non-counseling duty. You can [click this link](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Yearly-school-Counseling-Curriculum-Weekly-Calendar-3498129) to get my freebie weekly calendar (and yearly curricular calendar). [Here is a fabulous article by former ASCA president, Dr. Russell Sabella,](https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/508472/available%20upon%20request%20from%20fsca%20mag.PDF) which you can use in support of your efforts in sticking to your weekly calendar of counseling duties. In conclusion, know that it is fine, and even preferable, to take baby steps as you develop your skills in the art of saying no gracefully. Decide on two or three of the most important areas you need to say no to and slowly, politely, professionally work on deflecting these non-counseling duties throughout the school year. Onward and upward! ![pin non-counseling duties](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Pin-NonCounseling.png) **Categories:** Advocacy **Tags:** non-counseling duties --- ### [School Counselor Schedules and Disruptions](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselor-schedules/) **Published:** September 20, 2017 **Author:** The Helpful Counselor, Carol Miller Counseling Essentials and School Counselor Stephanie and 1 more **Content:** # **How is your schedule setup?** School counselor schedules can vary from building to building, district to district, and state to state. It will depend on your student population, district initiatives, best practices, and your own expertise. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd” link\_color=”#000000″\] [![The Helpful Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/The-Helpful-Counselor-New-150x150.jpg)](www.thehelpfulcounselor.com)Covering 3 buildings doesn’t provide much wiggle room in scheduling. I visit classrooms every quarter to teach problem-solving and coping skill strategies. It’s not as much as I would like. With only 1 ½ days at each building per week, I need to be available to provide Tier II and Tier III interventions for students needing more intensive support. Roughly 10% of my students receive group support throughout the year. Crunching the numbers, that’s 150 students. I run 3-4 groups at a time at each of my schools. 2-3% of my students receive individual counseling support. Typically, these kids are dealing with something too sensitive to share in elementary level group (e.g., family incarceration, substance abuse, etc.) I have learned to leave the first and last 30 minutes of the day unscheduled. This is my email/phone call/paperwork/meeting with parents/progress monitoring time. Crazy caseloads need a process for scheduling. The Response to Intervention (RTI) process has really helped me establish expectations with teacher and principals. They know that my schedule is determined by the data I get from [my needs assessment](http://www.thehelpfulcounselor.com/school-counseling-needs-assessment/) and progress monitoring. In terms of managing 3 buildings, data is my favorite 4-letter word! **-Heather, [The Helpful Counselor](http://thehelpfulcounselor.com)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd” link\_color=”#000000″\] ![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg)I set my schedule by determining my priorities, setting them on my calendar and then building in other things around them. Priorities for me are scheduled meetings, for example, team meetings, faculty meetings, IEP meetings, Student Support Team meetings and parent-teacher conferences. After my meetings are set, I plan time for my groups. Most of my groups meet during lunch and we have 20 lunch periods each week, so this really can be the bulk of my schedule. With the number of students, I both need to see and want to see, having enough time can start to be challenging. It’s important to identify in your planning how often you will meet and how many sessions. If I am doing classroom lessons, lessons will beat out my groups, so prearranging with teachers when I will go into classes is a must. There is a lot of long-range planning involved, and when I plan, I need to look at the whole year and not just the week. I also save time in my schedule for individual meetings, planning, and parent phone calls. Typically I reserve first period as a time to do most planning, emails, and callbacks. Lastly, I share my schedule with the main office, and group times with the grade level teams. It’s helpful to have people to help remind students and also is a great piece of advocacy as to letting everyone know how busy I am. – [**Carol Miller, The Middle School Counselor**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=Conversation%3A%20Schedule%20Set%20Up) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd” link\_color=”#000000″\] # **How do you manage disruptions in your schedule?** Ugh, disruptions. A School Counselor’s schedule can not avoid dreaded disruptions. It is so important to know how to prioritize and respond to, and recover from those disruptions. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd” link\_color=”#000000″\] [![The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store)Being a school social worker means that my pretty and organized [planner](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store/Category/-Planners-and-Binders-219292) is full of scribbles, notes and black lines at the end of the day! My typical schedule includes classroom lessons, meetings, and individual/group counseling. However, with interruptions, such a crises and CPS surprise visits that pretty schedule isn’t so pretty at the end of the day. I manage disruptions to my schedule with a highlighter and some words such as “I am so sorry” to those who I was not able to see. If I have to miss a scheduled appointment, I highlight it and follow up with the reason I missed the appointment and my plan to reschedule in person or via email before I leave for the day. Handling disruptions in my schedule is something that has never been easy for me because I like things organized. It is inevitable in my job and my highlighter has helped me ensure that I will not miss anything. Highlighting makes it easy for me see what I missed quickly and make a plan to get it done. Have a happy school year! **[-The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd” link\_color=”#000000″\] [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/SchoolCounselorStephanie.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counselor-Stephanie?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Store%20link)I work at a high poverty school where there are only two school counselors and 1000 students. We know how to manage and minimize disruptions in our schedule. There are three main ways that we are able to do this. First, we have strategically-planned daily schedules where we build in time every day to handle student, staff, and parent/guardian issues that are unexpected, such as a new student enrolling, a parent phone call, or a staff member that needs to consult with us. Here is [my daily schedule template](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Yearly-school-Counseling-Curriculum-Weekly-Calendar-3498129), if you’d like to check it out or use it as your own. The second way we manage and minimize disruptions is through frequent presentations to educate student, staff, and community on the best ways to connect with us. We train them repeatedly that any crisis (specifically defined as a “three hurts emergency”) is ALWAYS a reason to interrupt us, but it is also the ONLY reason to interrupt us. Any issue that is not a crisis requires that they fill out a request to access us (paper, phone or email). This allows us to address their needs in a timely, but fair manner. This means that no one gets to “jump the line”, and at our school, there is always a line. Finally, we strictly adhere that only crises can pull us out of groups, individual sessions, guidance lessons, parent or team meetings, and even program planning! This is so, so important in maintaining a comprehensive school counseling program. After all, if we let every issue disrupt our schedule, we would only be able to do “random acts of guidance.” – [**School Counselor Stephanie**](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/) ![school counseling schedule disruptions pin](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/8.jpg) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Counselor Role **Tags:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials, counselor schedule, organization, School Counselor Stephanie, Sunny Sunshine Store, The Helpful Counselor --- ### [Conversations: Bullying Awareness Month is Next Week](https://confidentcounselors.com/conversations-bullying-awareness-month/) **Published:** September 27, 2017 **Author:** The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store, Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop and School Counselor Stephanie **Content:** Bullying Awareness Month is coming up in October. It is an important month to highlight anti-bullying programs and initiatives in your school. If your school doesn’t directly or effectively address bullying, it is a great time to open up conversations with your administration. # Bullying Awareness Month \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd” link\_color=”#000000″\] [![The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store)I find that my students believe that any misunderstanding, problem, or conflict is bullying. I like to [educate](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/How-To-Handle-Peer-Issues-2044504) my students on what exactly bullying is and how it differs from conflicts, accidents, and misunderstandings. Then, I work on giving my students the tools to help manage these situations. – **[The Sunny Sunshine Student Support](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd” link\_color=”#000000″\] ![school counselor stephanie logo](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/SchoolCounselorStephanie.png)At my school, we prepare for Bullying Awareness Month with lots of support and info-sharing through guidance lessons. I am at a middle school, so kids picking on each other often goes with the territory. I use a specific guidance lesson to introduce the bullying topic with definitions, and “what to do if” scenarios. [Here is a link to the bullying guidance lesson if you’d like to check it out.](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Taking-the-Bully-by-the-Horns-Anti-BullyingCyberbullying-Lesson-3507511?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Conversation%20Bullying) Then, in the next guidance lesson on this topic, I take our school resource officer (police officer) in with me and he explains the legalities of bullying to students. I am in Texas, which just passed very strict anti-bullying interventions through David’s Law, so we spend a lot of time and effort on this topic during Bullying Awareness Month and year round. – [**School Counselor Stephanie**](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd” link\_color=”#000000″\] [![Social Emotional Workshop](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Logo2017-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop)One important perspective change I had about bullying came after hearing Ross Greene speak. He emphasized that in the bully-victim relationship, there were skills lacking on both sides. Since then, I coach others to think about bullies with skill deficits that need intervention, rather than as a bad kid. This month, consider intensive interventions that focus on social problem solving, empathy building, and impulse control. Check out Ross Greene’s article [B is for Bullies (and the Bullied)](http://www.livesinthebalance.org/b-bullies-and-bullied) and advocate for policies that go beyond zero tolerance and create a school climate where bullying is solved and not managed. **-Laura from [Social Emotional Workshop](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd” link\_color=”#000000″\] **Check out our other posts on Bullying and share what you do in the comments!** - **[Preventing Bullying](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/10/17/preventing-bullying-school-counselors/)** - **[School-Wide Bullying Prevention](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/10/17/school-wide-bullying-prevention-school-counselors/)** - **[Responding to Bullying](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/10/17/responding-to-bullying-school-counselors/)** ![Bullying awareness suggestions pin](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/10.jpg) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Your Program **Tags:** bullying, CC tips, School Counselor Stephanie, Social Emotional Workshop, Sunny Sunshine Store --- ### [Make Your Student Observations Comprehensive](https://confidentcounselors.com/comprehensive-student-observations/) **Published:** October 2, 2017 **Author:** Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop **Content:** ​Student observations were regularly a part of my day as a school psychologist. For special education evaluations, I observed students in multiple settings. I tried to understand that student in-depth and give meaningful strategies. These observations also became invaluable for counseling and behavior support referrals. ​ There were also concerns about students who weren’t on the radar for special education services. Friendship drama, annoying behaviors, sudden anxiety, non-compliance. You know the list. Many teachers are great about giving details about a student’s struggles, and you could devise a plan without stepping into the classroom. However, when I started regularly incorporating classroom observations after a teacher referral, it helped me create effective and well-received interventions because they fit the classroom and a student. *​Redirect those teachers who exclaim, “I’m so glad I saw you,” in the hallway to complete a [referral form](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-Referral-Forms-Intervention-Teams-Student-Support-Teams-CST-2723451?utm_source=CC%20&utm_campaign=Student%20Observations%20102017).​* ## Essential Elements in a Classroom Usually, it’s easier to change something about a classroom than how a student behaves. There are crucial elements that should be present in any classroom. When these are missing, it can cause issues that have nothing to do with the students. Grab this [Free Classroom Observation Checklist](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Classroom-Observation-Checklist-SEW.pdf) to make notes about possible classroom ## Before an Observation Consider the following: 1. What is the target behavior? 2. When are you most likely to see the target behavior? 3. How will you get a baseline for typical behavior in the classroom? 4. What else do you want to know about the classroom or student? Tailor your observation forms to the referral concern. For example, you receive a referral for low work completion and inattention. For this specific concern, you might want to note: time on task (compared to classmates), how much work they completed, what’s happening in the room, the material difficulty, the time of day, who is involved. This will give you a complete picture of the concern and good baseline data for any intervention. ## Use the Right Tools I mentioned making your observations specific to the referral concern. To do this, you have to collect the correct data. For example, if a student is slow to start a task, you want to know how many seconds it takes them to begin after a direction is given. You might do some time sampling if a student is frequently on and off task. So, every 30 seconds, you note if the student is doing what is expected. You can also compare the student to their peers. Every classroom is different so it is useful to understand the normal or expected behaviors. Collect data specific to the behavior, rather than a running record of what is happening in the room. The above might sound overly technical, but once you have a few tools in your toolbox, this type of data collection is so efficient. ## Analyze Data After an observation: 1. Look at your data. 2. Consider the target behavior and quantify how the student and their peers are doing and the gap between them. 3. Write a summary of what you observed, including how the environment may be helping or not helping the student. ## Develop a plan What kind of intervention would close the gap between the student and their peers? Is the student missing skills? Do they lack motivation? Does your data agree with the teacher’s concern? What does the teacher need to support the student? A teacher may have wanted you to see the student for counseling, but your data shows that in-class support is likely more effective. With data, you can feel confident to do what you think is best for the student. Use your observation data to build a plan to support the student best and answer the teacher’s concerns. **Categories:** Behavior, Individual Counseling **Tags:** behavior intervention, counseling referrals --- ### [Conversations: Improving Relationships with Teachers](https://confidentcounselors.com/conversations-improving-relationships-with-teachers/) **Published:** September 29, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Keri, Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop and The School Counselor Is In **Content:** # **Teacher Counselor Relationships** Have you had a relationship with a teacher that did not get off on the right foot? A teacher who is resistant to a suggested intervention? Check out these tips for improving relationships with teachers in your building. When we work collaboratively with teachers, students succeed. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd” link\_color=”#000000″\] [![Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Counselor-Keri-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri)During a time when I was split between two buildings, I had a teacher who expressed some resistance in regards to implementing a behavior support plan for a student. Because I was only in the building 1-2 days per week, it was sometimes difficult to be seen as a team member. In an effort to prevent this relationship from becoming negative, I asked the teacher if we could have lunch together one day and offered to pick up lunch from her favorite restaurant. We ate together and really got to know each other. She shared with me about the stress she was feeling in the classroom and how the behavior support plan felt like “one more thing” piled on her plate. We agreed that the plan itself was not really the issue and agreed to meet outside of school to do some self-care together! Making the effort to get to know this teacher as an individual rather than just a “resistant colleague” resulted in one of my best professional relationships and friendships. **[-Keri from Counselor Keri](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri?utm_source=Confident%20Counselors&utm_campaign=Sept%20Confident%20Counselor%20Chat)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd” link\_color=”#000000″\] ![Social Emotional Workshop](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Logo2017-150x150.png)The teachers at my first job had never had a school psychologist that did more than test. They didn’t know what to make of me, my behavior plans, and counseling. After a few months of stalled interventions, I realized I needed to be purposeful about my relationships with teachers just like I was with students. Before school each morning, I went around to the classrooms. I picked one or two grade levels and I chatted with teachers and helped them set up for the day. We discussed concerns they had, easy strategies they could try, and made notes to reconnect about what worked and what didn’t. This consistent and easy interaction made all the difference for me, teachers, and most importantly our students. Check out my other tips on how to [develop relationships with teachers this year](http://socialemotionalworkshop.com/2015/08/6-ways-to-build-relationships-with-teachers/). **-Laura from [Social Emotional Workshop](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop)** **\[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd” link\_color=”#000000″\]** [![The School Counselor Is In](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/theschoolcounselorisin3.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-School-Counselor-Is-In)Developing positive relationships with teachers is so important. Throughout my career as a school counselor, there have been times when I have felt a teacher did not particularly care for me. Because of this, I spent a lot of time feeling upset and at a loss of what to do. One simple thing I do now, which has made a HUGE difference, is taking note of important events that are going on in their life and taking the time to acknowledge them. An example of this is at the beginning of the school year, I write down all program performances and other important class events that will take place during the coming months. On the day of those events, I will leave a note of encouragement and small treat on that teacher’s desk as a way to show care and support. This small gesture has been well received and has helped me strengthen my relationships with all teachers in a positive manner. **-Jodi from [The School Counselor Is In ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-School-Counselor-Is-In)** ![Improving relationships with teachers. Consulting with teachers in schools is a big part of a school counselor's success.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/2.jpg) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Teachers **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Keri, relationship building, Social Emotional Workshop, The School Counselor Is In --- ### [Conversations: Favorite Book to Use in Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/favorite-books-school-counseling/) **Published:** October 6, 2017 **Author:** The Helpful Counselor, Laurie P Mendoza and Counselor Chelsey **Content:** We all have a favorite book to use in counseling with students. Children’s literature can be a great, engaging way to open up conversations, address issues, and help students connect with a character who is experiencing the same issues as them. Three Confident Counselors have some great suggestions and companion resources to help you use these favorite books. ## **What is your favorite book to use in counseling?** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] [![The Helpful Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/The-Helpful-Counselor-New-150x150.jpg)](http://thehelpfulcounselor.com)My favorite book to use in counseling is [My Secret Bully](http://amzn.to/2h45598) by Trudy Ludwig. Many of my students come to me for “friendship problems” but their friend is acting more like a bully than a friend. My Secret Bully is a great conversation starter in terms of how friends should treat one another. I really appreciate how the book doesn’t say if the girls will remain friends as this opens the door for my students to decide on how they should handle their toxic friendships. My companion [activity pack for My Secret Bully](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/My-Secret-Bully-Activities-for-Friendship-Bullying-748807) is one of my best sellers on TPT! – **Heather, [**The Helpful Counselor**](http://www.thehelpfulcounselor.com) [![My Secret Bully](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/My-Secret-Bully-Cover-240x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/favorite-books-school-counseling/my-secret-bully-cover/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/My-Secret-Bully-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/favorite-books-school-counseling/my-secret-bully/) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] ![School Counseling Files](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/School-Counseling-Files-Round-150x150.png)My favorite book to use in counseling is Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse by Kevin Henkes. It’s my go-to book for conflict resolution classroom lessons in grades 3-5 when we’re learning about the “[conflict escalator](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Conflict-Escalator-Activity-Pages-1235157?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=Favorite%20Counseling%20Book%20Post%20092017):” Lilly gets angry at her beloved teacher, responds impulsively, and then feels terrible about her big mistake. With the help of her parents, she tries to fix the problem using many of the conflict resolution strategies we want students to learn. There’s a lot of learning packed into this one book! – **Laurie Mendoza, [School Counseling Files](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com)** [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Lilys-Purple-Plastic-Purse-Cover-240x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/favorite-books-school-counseling/lilys-purple-plastic-purse-cover/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Conflict-Escalator-236x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/favorite-books-school-counseling/conflict-escalator/) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] [![CounselorChelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/CounselorChesleyRound-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselorchelsey)A book I could not live without in my counseling work is Clark The Shark by Bruce Hale. This is a perfect book to teach self-control, especially to younger students. The main character has a hard time controlling himself, even though he tries, just like many of the kiddos I see. In the end, Clark learns to make rhymes to help him use self-control and to remember that there is a time and place for everything! This [book companion](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Control-Activities-Clark-the-Shark-2909940) is a great resource to help students learn how to practice self-control in their own lives! **-Chelsey from [Counselor Chelsey](http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/CounselorChelsey)** [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Clark-the-Shark-Self-Control-Activities-232x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/favorite-books-school-counseling/clark-the-shark-self-control-activities/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Clark-the-Shark-Cover-300x290.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/favorite-books-school-counseling/clark-the-shark-cover/) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd”\] ## What are your favorite books to use in counseling? ![Favorite books to use in school counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/6.jpg) **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Your Office **Tags:** book recommendations, Counselor Chelsey, School Counseling Files, The Helpful Counselor --- ### [Connect with Staff as a School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/connect-staff-school-counselors/) **Published:** October 4, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Chelsey **Content:** Being a school counselor or school psychologist can feel a little like you’re on your own island. You’re not a teacher, you’re not part of administrative staff; it can often seem like you don’t quite belong. To make things more difficult, many school counselors or psychologists often split their time between campuses, and are only at a certain building a few days a week. It can be challenging to connect with staff as a school counselor. Starting out as a school-based counselor, I was at my school 2-3 days a week, my office was in the basement, and I was hired by an outside mental health agency, which meant that I didn’t even have a school e-mail. I think people I worked with often forgot I existed. While we don’t come to work to make friends, feeling connected to the people around us is important. For myself, I find that when I feel most connected and appreciated, I am most excited about going to work and putting in my best effort. I also realized that if the staff didn’t know I was there, they couldn’t use my services. They couldn’t refer students, they couldn’t ask me to be a part of creating behavior plans for students, and they couldn’t talk to me about which behavior strategies would be best in their classroom. I knew that if I wanted to be effective, something had to change. The school staff had to know I was there. I’m excited to share with you some of the steps I have taken to go from the girl in the basement who no one knew to having great relationships with many of my colleagues. # Make Yourself Visible Out of sight, out of mind. Unfortunately, this can be an issue for many school counselors. If teachers and other school staff don’t see you enough, they may be slow to remember that your services exist. As I previously mentioned, my office used to be in the school basement. This physical barrier meant that I didn’t just “run in” to teachers on the way to the bathroom or to fill up my water bottle. After a few too many lonely days, I decided to make an effort to be more visible. Here are some of the strategies I used: - **Go to classrooms to pick kids up, instead of calling them down.** - **Walked around the halls during arrival and dismissal.** - **Eat lunch in the teacher’s lounge.** - **Say hello when you see a teacher or other school staff member.** - **Attended meetings that are beneficial, even if it was not required.** # Find your people Having a busy schedule, and potentially not even being in the building full time, leaves very little time to connect with staff. Instead of trying to connect with everyone in the school, focus on the people you work most closely with and who support your work in the school. Maybe it’s a teacher who has several students in her class struggling with behavior, maybe it’s the school psychologist, maybe it’s the special education teacher. Whoever it is for you, start there. Say hello, pop into their classrooms, ask about their day. Find the people who appreciate you and your work, and focus your efforts there. # Connect with Teachers Outside of School This can mean physically meeting up with teachers outside of school, but also connecting with the lives teachers have outside of school. Do the teachers in your school have kids? Ask about them, buy girl scout cookies from them, ask to see pictures of them. Just as counseling is only a part of your life, teaching is only a part of their life. There is so much more to get to know. You can also do this by connecting through outside events. Is your school doing a secret Santa? Ask to enter. Is your school having a staff get together? Sign up to bring your famous chocolate cupcakes. Capitalize on opportunities to connect with staff on a personal level, not just as professionals. # Put in the Effort As with any friendships, building relationships with teachers and other school staff takes effort and initiative. It may be a little uncomfortable when the school secretary sees you walk by 50 times a day, but it may be the reminder she needs to call you when a parent in need stops in. It may be out of your comfort zone to eat in the teacher’s lounge with one other teacher you don’t very well. However, putting in effort will give your school staff the chance to see just how amazing you and your program are, even if it’s a bit awkward. School counselors are busy people. Between student crises, groups, classroom lessons, IEP meetings, it may not seem like there is time left. However, taking the opportunities to connect with staff can be crucial to your own well-being and the efficacy of your role. **Tell me about your favorite ways to connect with your colleagues in the comments below!** Check out how other Confident Counselors [improved teacher relationships gone wrong](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/29/conversations-improving-relationships-with-teachers/). [![School counselors support their own self care and efficacy when they connect with staff](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Pinterest-Image.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Pinterest-Image.png) **Categories:** Advocacy, Collaboration **Tags:** advocacy, relationship building --- ### [Positivity Works: Stepping Out of Negativity](https://confidentcounselors.com/positivity-works-stepping-negativity/) **Published:** October 11, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Up **Content:** In my third year of my school counseling career, a student asked me “What’s wrong with you Mrs. Atkins? You used to smile.” Wow, out of the mouths of babes, right? The daily grind of our work can start to grind down the positivity that brought us into this helping career in the first place. I know that not only had my attitude suffered but so did my relationships with students. ![If you work really hard, and you're kind, amazing things will happen.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/If-you-work-really-hard-and-youre-kind-amazing-things-will-happen.-300x300.jpg) # **Keep a Smile File** As counselors, we usually see kids when they are struggling. We work hard with them and then send them on their way to do amazing things. Most of the time, we don’t see these amazing things! No news is usually good news in the school counseling world and that can get you down. When you receive notes, emails, drawings, or other positive news – keep them! I even write things down that didn’t come to me in written form and add it to the file. When I feel the negativity bringing me down, I use my smile file to step out of the negative. # **Collect Data** Wait, you say, I thought we were being positive?! Nothing shows your good work like some hard data to show that you are making a difference. When I was able to say that 60% of students passed our state test after [our academic achievement group](http://www.counselorup.com/blog/academic-achievement-groups) when 0% of the targeted students passed last year – that felt positive. If I hadn’t collected the data, I might have only heard about the kids that weren’t improving and never seen the actual scope of the hard work. # **Find Your People** Our jobs are hard. Some days, they are really hard. On a recent post, I had a reader say “find your people.” What great advice! At one school where I worked, the school secretary was like my second mama. She took care of me when I was not feeling well, when I had a rough day, or when I needed a place to vent (without breaking confidentiality). At the same school, we honored the “work hard, play hard” philosophy and scheduled ultimate frisbee games, pick up basketball, and dinners out that all staff was invited to. When you find coworkers that you like and know as real humans, it’s easier to step out of negativity. # **Step Out \*Literally\*** I’m all for venting. Sometimes venting helps you to take a deep breath and move on to the positive. However, perpetual venting will bring you down. When you’re in the copy room, break room, or hallway and people start to gripe, decide if this is helping you to connect and laugh it off or if you need to \*literally\* step out of the room. School staff is used to people running around all day and you can easily make an excuse that you need to go finish up another item. Don’t let others bring you down. # **Get Help if You Need It** If you are struggling with negativity to the point of burn out (been there) – seek help. If you’ve never been to a counselor or therapist, I truly believe seeing one will make you a better school counselor overall. ## How do you step out of negativity? I believe that it is a choice you can make each and every day. Check out [this post](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/11/27/fill-cup-self-care-real-life/) about self-care for some other ideas. ![Positivity Works - Stepping out of Negativity when works got you bogged down.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Stepping-Out-Pin.png) **Categories:** Counselor Role **Tags:** positive thinking, self care --- ### [10 Free Bullying Prevention Resources](https://confidentcounselors.com/free-bullying-prevention-resources/) **Published:** October 9, 2017 **Author:** EduKate & Inspire **Content:** October is Bullying Prevention Month, which means many counselors will be searching for resources to help bring awareness to bullying. It can be a challenge to find bullying resources that are not only helpful but also **FREE**! Listed below are 10 *free* bullying prevention resources that can be used for classroom lessons and school-wide programming in elementary and middle schools. # Free Bullying Prevention Resources for Lower Elementary ### 1) You Can Be an Upstander: Video and Lesson Plans (1st-2nd) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Screen-Shot-2017-10-03-at-5.21.46-PM-300x184.png)](http://www.thenedshow.com/preventing-bullying-lesson-plans.html) The Ned Show is a wonderful resource for school counselors. Not only do they offer engaging school assemblies, but they also have a wealth of free resources available on their website. The “[How to Be an Upstander](http://www.thenedshow.com/preventing-bullying-lesson-plans.html)” video does a great job showing kids how they can step up to help their peers during a conflict. On The Ned Show [website](http://www.thenedshow.com/preventing-bullying-lesson-plans.html), you can also access lesson plans to use with the video, activity pages, and even an upstander bulletin board! ### 2) Storyline Online: Digital Stories (K-3rd) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Screen-Shot-2017-10-03-at-5.24.30-PM-300x155.png)](http://www.storylineonline.net) [Storyline Online](http://www.storylineonline.net) is a fantastic place to find digital stories for your classroom lessons. The stories are read aloud by actors and actresses in an engaging way, and since the videos are digital, you can pause them at any time for discussion. There are 3 stories on Storyline that are great for classroom lessons on bullying awareness! Check out [Chester’s Way](http://www.storylineonline.net/books/chesters-way/), [Carla’s Sandwich](http://www.storylineonline.net/books/carlas-sandwich/), and [Enemy Pie](http://www.storylineonline.net/books/enemy-pie/), which focus on topics such as conflicts, accepting differences, and friendship. Many of the books featured on Storyline also offer resource guides for educators and parents! ### 3) BrainPOP Jr: Bullying Video (2nd-3rd) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Screen-Shot-2017-10-03-at-5.36.44-PM-300x227.png)](https://jr.brainpop.com/health/besafe/bullying/) Although BrainPOP Jr. is a paid subscription site for educators, the website offers its bullying resources for free. Check out the [Bullying](https://jr.brainpop.com/health/besafe/bullying/) video, which provides a definition of bullying along with prevention strategies. Below the video, you can also access a quiz, writing prompt, and other activities to use in a lesson. Similarly, the BrainPOP Jr. website also offers a free [Internet Safety](https://jr.brainpop.com/artsandtechnology/technology/internetsafety/) video, which can be a great intro to the topic of cyber bullying. ### 4) Howard B. Wigglebottom: Digital Stories (K-2nd) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Screen-Shot-2017-10-03-at-5.51.10-PM-300x238.png)](https://wedolisten.org/books-and-lessons) The [We Do Listen Foundation](https://wedolisten.org/books-and-lessons) is a non-profit organization that provides fantastic resources for young students. If you are a school counselor, you may own several Howard B. Wigglebottom books, but did you know that you can also find them on the We Do Listen website for free? What’s great about the digital stories is that they are animated and engaging. In addition to digital stories, you can also find games and activities that go along with a variety of topics. There are several Howard B. Wigglebottom stories that are great for bullying awareness lessons. Check out Howard B. Learns about Bullies, Listens to His Heart, and Learns We Can All Get Along. Below each story, make sure you look for the extra resources–some of the stories even have lesson plans complete with ASCA standards! ### 5) Sesame Street: Conflict Video (K-1st) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Screen-Shot-2017-10-03-at-5.59.00-PM-300x157.png)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gl3e-OUnavQ) In your youngest classrooms, you may not use the word “bullying.” Instead, you may introduce students to the concept of having a “conflict.” This [Conflict Video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gl3e-OUnavQ) from Sesame Street does a fantastic job introducing young students to the concept of conflicts. The video is engaging and silly and is a great introduction to speaking up when there is a problem. If you are not able to access YouTube at school, you can use a site like [Save Tube](http://savetube.com) to download the video at home prior to your lesson. # Free Bullying Prevention Resources for Upper Elementary ### 6) 4 Ways to Deal with a Bully: Video (3rd-6th) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Screen-Shot-2017-10-03-at-9.21.27-PM-300x155.png)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFAUwxvD3J8&t=1s) [4 Ways to Deal with a Bully](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFAUwxvD3J8&t=1s) is a wonderful video from Kristina Kuzmic and her son. You may have seen some of Kristina’s parenting videos shared on Facebook. In this video, practical bullying prevention strategies are shared in a comical way. Your students will love the humor in this video! Several of my 4th grade students have asked me to share the link to this video, so they can watch it again at home–I call that a win! ### 7) Bullying vs. Conflict: Video (3rd-6th) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Screen-Shot-2017-10-03-at-9.36.05-PM-300x129.png)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PM8QO-zCYpo&t=8s) In the upper grades, it is important for students to understand the definition of bullying vs. conflict. This simple [video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PM8QO-zCYpo&t=8s) does a great job of comparing both concepts in an easy to understand way. This video is also great to send to parents as a quick way to help them understand the definition of bullying. ### 8) Classroom Check-In: Tool for Teachers (2nd-6th) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Screen-Shot-2017-10-03-at-9.51.10-PM-235x300.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Classroom-Check-In-Stop-Bullying-Before-it-Starts-1105733) While not specifically related to bullying, the [Classroom Check-In](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Classroom-Check-In-Stop-Bullying-Before-it-Starts-1105733) tool is a wonderful resource to help teachers get an inside view of which students in their class may be feeling left out. As a counselor, you can present this tool at a staff meeting and instantly give teachers a way to get insight about relationships in their classrooms. The resource, which was inspired by a popular Facebook post a few years ago, is available for free on TPT. Encourage your teachers to give it a try and see what impact it can make at your school! # Free Bullying Prevention Resources for Parents ### 9) StopBullying.gov: Resource Website (K-12) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Screen-Shot-2017-10-03-at-10.02.53-PM-300x50.png)](https://www.stopbullying.gov) [StopBullying.gov](https://www.stopbullying.gov) is a comprehensive website with resources for teachers, students, and parents. It is a good one-stop-shop if you need a site to refer parents to for more information about bullying. It provides parents with statistics, warning signs, [ways to talk to their children](https://www.stopbullying.gov/prevention/talking-about-it/index.html), and more. The website is written in a parent-friendly manner and provides a wealth of helpful information. ### 10) 25 Ways to Ask Your Child “How Was Your Day?” (K-6) [![25 Ways to Ask a Child: How Was Your Day?](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/25-Questions-Cover-300x300.png)](http://bit.ly/HowWasYourDay25) One of the best ways to help bring awareness to bullying and conflicts is simply to improve communication. When children are open and honest with the adults in their lives, adults can begin to gauge the size of problems and help intervene before situations escalate. So often, we ask children, “how was your day?” and get a minimal response. I created a fun [list of 25 questions](http://bit.ly/HowWasYourDay25) to ask children “how was your day?” *without* asking “how was your day?” This year, I provided this list to parents at Open House and received a great response! It is a great tool to help parents improve communication at home. I hope the free resources above provide you with a great foundation for your bullying awareness lessons. For more bullying resources, check out some of our other posts: - **[Preventing Bullying: Tips for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/10/17/preventing-bullying-school-counselors/)** - **[School-Wide Bullying Prevention](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/10/17/school-wide-bullying-prevention-school-counselors/)** - **[Responding to Bullying](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/10/17/responding-to-bullying-school-counselors/)** Do you have any favorite free bullying prevention resources? Please share your ideas in the comments! Pin the Post! ![10 Free Bullying Prevention Resources](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/10-Free-Bullying-Prevention-Resources-Pin-3.png) **Categories:** Your Program **Tags:** bullying, free resources --- ### [How to Plan a Successful Mix it Up at Lunch Day](https://confidentcounselors.com/mix-it-up-at-lunch/) **Published:** October 19, 2017 **Author:** The DIY Counselor **Content:** Mix it Up at Lunch Day challenges students to get out of their comfort zone and engage with others, helping to create a more inclusive school. Begun by the organization, Teaching Tolerance, it is held on the last Tuesday of October. Students sit in a different seat in the cafeteria and interact with peers during their lunchtime. Preparation, activities, and follow-up are important to consider in hosting a Mix it Up at Lunch Day. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Mix-it-Up-at-lunch.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Mix-it-Up-at-lunch.png) # Key Components of Mix It Up at Lunch Day Preparation is essential for a successful Mix it Up event. Get permission from your administration and put together a Mix it Up Prep Team. Your prep team should include students, along with teachers and parents. **Determine a date**. Mix it Up doesn’t have to be on the official day. Do what works best for your school. **Decide how students participate**. Is it mandatory or do students have a choice? **[![How to plan a successful Mix It Up at Lunch Day](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Mix-it-up@LunchDay-1.png.crdownload-300x213.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Mix-it-up@LunchDay-1.png.crdownload.png)** **Promote the event**. Use daily announcements, place posters around the school, advertise through social media, district/school web page, and promote the event through other school clubs and parent groups. **Activities are key** to the success of your Mix it Up event. Sitting at a new place during lunch is a scary thing. Make it fun. Jazz it up with décor, music, giveaways, themes, contests etc. Decorate and rearrange the tables to be colorful and inviting. Play music. Get donations for giveaways from local businesses. Have a local celebrity MC. Make it intentional. Mix it Up is a great way to help students reach out and get to know new people. Provide discussion cards, games and ice breaker activities to help students interact. Download these [Mix it Up at Lunch Discussion Cards](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Discussion-Starter-Cards-Mix-It-Up-at-Lunch-2624963?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=Mix%20It%20Up%20Day%20Blog%20Post%20102017) for your event. [![Planning a Successful Mix It Up Day At Lunch](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/mix-it-up-discussion-card-image.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Discussion-Starter-Cards-Mix-It-Up-at-Lunch-2624963?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=Mix%20It%20Up%20Day%20Blog%20Post%20102017) # **Follow-Up After Your Event** Debrief the event with your prep team. Determine what worked and learn from what didn’t. Conduct an online survey for students and staff to evaluate the event. Consider the feedback in planning your next event. Repeat the message. Plan another Mix it Up event with a different twist. Use other aspects of your program to promote an inclusive school environment-classroom curriculum, character education, mentoring, bullying prevention, and other school-wide events. Mix it Up at Lunch Day can be a catalyst in helping students get out of their comfort zone and break free from their fears and insecurities in meeting new people. Check out [Teaching Tolerance](https://www.tolerance.org/mix-it-up) for more information on Mix it up at Lunch Day. [![How to plan a successful Mix It Up at Lunch Day](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Mix-It-Up-Day-2.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Mix-It-Up-Day-2.png) **Categories:** Your Program **Tags:** events, Mix It Up Day --- ### [6 Tips for Making Recess Inclusive](https://confidentcounselors.com/making-recess-inclusive/) **Published:** October 17, 2017 **Author:** Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor **Content:** Recess can be the best part of a kid’s day or it can be a major source of stress and anxiety. For some kids, this is when they are finally able to run free and let off some steam. They love the carefree wiggle time where they can focus on being a kid and enjoy playing with their friends. Other students aren’t as lucky and do not love recess. There is a multitude of reasons why a child may not enjoy this unstructured free time. For many, their dislike stems from their lack of friendships or the necessary social skills needed to join in with others. With a little bit of help to be comfortable and one person willing to be a friend, they would love this time as well. Here are six tips for making recess inclusive for all students as they learn the social skills to develop and maintain friendships. # **1. School Wide Initiatives/ Guidance Classes** Through my guidance classes, I try to teach a school-wide culture of kindness, friendship, [respect](http://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/2016/03/friendly-respectful-or-unfriendly.html), and inclusion. Instilling strong values in our students through our lessons makes it easier to reinforce and encourage those behaviors during recess. # **2. Friendship Fence/Buddy Bench** Buddy benches are a super cute way to get kids to socialize with students who may need some help making friends. Some schools have it in their budget to get a buddy bench, others do not. If you want to create a buddy bench on a budget, create a [friendship fence](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Friendship-Fence-Buddy-Bench-on-a-Budget-3415824?utm_source=CCC%20Blog&utm_campaign=CCC%20Inclusive%20Recess%20Blog) instead! They are a cheap alternative, all you need is paper, laminator, zip ties, and a fence. Read more about friendship fences [here](http://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/2017/09/friendship-fence-buddy-bench-on-budget.html). [![Friendship Fence - 6 tips for making recess inclusive.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/original-3415824-1.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Friendship-Fence-Buddy-Bench-on-a-Budget-3415824?utm_source=CCC%20Blog&utm_campaign=CCC%20Inclusive%20Recess%20Blog) # **3. Recess Rangers** Recess Rangers are students that are in charge of including kids. When they see someone playing alone or there is a new student, the Recess Rangers are in charge of asking them if they want to play. They are the ones who help kids who may not be comfortable finding a way to join in the games. Encourage teachers to create this roll when assigning class jobs to help ensure that all kids will be included at recess. # **4. All-Inclusive, Easy Games** Give students game ideas that include lots of kids and are relatively low skill, such as freeze tag. You could even create a recess game menu that students can refer to when thinking of what to play! This is also a way to create a classroom expectation that all students are involved in the games. # **5. Class Wide Pact** Have your class come up with a recess pact. Students create the rules and guidelines that want to follow and how they are going to make sure everyone is included and having fun. Once they are done creating their pact, have all the students sign it and hang it in your classroom. Create a copy of the pact, laminate it and zip tie it to the fence at recess where it can be referred to as needed. # **6. Small Groups/Social Skills Development** Some students need a little extra help before they are able to fully participate and make friends. With these students, assess their needs, figure out why they are not making friends and then teach them the necessary social skills in a small group setting. [This](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Will-You-Help-Flip-the-Turtle-What-You-Can-Do-To-Help-2312128?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=Recess%20Blog%20Post%20102017) or [this](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Friendship-With-Yeti-Helping-Students-Make-Friends-2281819?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=Recess%20Blog%20Post%20102017) would are my go-tos. These tips are sure to make recess time fun and inclusive for all! ### What do you do to make sure everyone is included? [![6 tips for making recess inclusive for all elementary school students to help foster social skills, develop friendships, and have fun.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Pin-Inclusive-Recess-Environments.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Pin-Inclusive-Recess-Environments.png) **Categories:** Your Program **Tags:** bullying, recess --- ### [Conversations: Tips and Tricks for Behavior Plans](https://confidentcounselors.com/behavior-plans-tips/) **Published:** October 20, 2017 **Author:** The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store, Counselor Chelsey and School Counselor Stephanie and 1 more **Content:** # What are your tips and tricks for behavior plans? ## Data Driven Behavior Plans [![The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Sunny%20Logo)Behavior plans should be developed with a team who knows the students best (e.g., school staff, parents, and even the student!). The first step to an effective behavior plan is a thorough Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA). This determines the antecedents, target behavior definition and the consequences of the behavior. A great FBA will include information about the settings, frequency, times of day, intensity, duration, the hypothesis as to why the behavior occurs, and an assessment of the student’s preferences for reinforcement. To develop a strong behavior intervention plan, make sure you complete a solid FBA that identifies the target behaviors and their function. Behavior always has a function and it is our job to determine what that function is. When writing behavior plans it is important that the plan is clear and easy to implement by all staff that work with the student. This is my go-to resource to help me develop behavior plans for my students: [Behavior Intervention Toolkit](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Behavior-Intervention-Toolkit-for-RTI-2123222?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SS%20Behavior%20Intervention%20Toolkit). The most important tip I can offer is to be consistent with your interventions and plan. Remember, sometimes a student’s behavior will get worse before it gets better. – [The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Sunny%20Story) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd” link\_color=”#000000″\] ## Student Involvement [![CounselorChelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/CounselorChesleyRound.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselorchelsey)When creating a behavior plan, it is important to remember that one size does not fit all. What worked for one student doesn’t always work for another. It’s simple to get in the habit of using the same type of plan for each student because it is easier. However, it is so important to make sure that the plan is specific to the child’s individual needs, personality, and goals. Personalize each plan as much as possible by involving the student. According to him/her, what do they think the problem is and what can they do to solve it? It can be amazing to hear what students come up with and it is a great step to making sure that the plan is specific to that particular child. – [CounselorChelsey](http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/CounselorChelsey) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd” link\_color=”#000000″\] ## Consistent Implementation [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/SchoolCounselorStephanie.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counselor-Stephanie?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Store%20link)Behavior plans are a super effective tool for motivating students to improve their behavior. My favorite behavior plan tool is the behavior chart or points sheet. I honestly have never met a student that didn’t improve their behavior with a correctly and consistently implemented behavior plan. The key to an effective behavior chart and plan is **consistent**, **positive** reinforcement from the moment it starts. For more details on how to create and utilize behavior charts and behavior plans, check out my [behavior resources](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Ten-Commandments-of-Bilingual-Classroom-Management-2801292?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SL%20Ten%20Commandments), available in both [English](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Ten-Commandments-of-Classroom-Management-3431941?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Behavior%20Mgmt) and Spanish! – [School Counselor Stephanie](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd” link\_color=”#000000″\] ## Personal Connections [![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/counselor-stores/carol-miller/)There is a difference between a BIP (Behavior Intervention Plan) and a Behavioral Intervention. A BIP is a formalized plan on a student’s IEP that was created after doing a Functional Behavioral Assessment. It is a Tier 3 intervention. At my school, we have just a small handful of students with a BIP. Far more of our students use a Behavioral Intervention in the form of a [Check-In/Check-Out Sheet](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Daily-Check-In-and-Check-Out-Sheet-1462355?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TMC%20Check%20In%20Check%20Out). These sheets use a reward system and daily monitoring from an individual who has contact with the student every day, as well as a connection. It’s also important not to try to change more than 2-3 behaviors at a time. Personal connections are key. Teachers generally check in and out with the students every day. I see them once a week to review their progress, connect with parents, and reward their progress. They are a simple, yet effective way to change undesirable behaviors. [**– Carol Miller – The Middle School Counselor**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor) [![Confident Counselors Conversations about tips and tricks for behavior plans. Data driven, personal, consistent, and student involved.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Pin-Confident-Counselors-Conversations-1.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Pin-Confident-Counselors-Conversations-1.png) **Categories:** Behavior, Counselor Chats **Tags:** behavior intervention, Carol Miller Counseling Essentials, CC tips, Counselor Chelsey, School Counselor Stephanie, Sunny Sunshine Store --- ### [Teaching Study Skills as Part of Your Counseling Curriculum](https://confidentcounselors.com/study-skills/) **Published:** October 23, 2017 **Author:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials **Content:** As school counselors, it’s easy to talk to students about things that are bugging them, help with problems they are having, and be their champion when they need one. It’s much more difficult to teach skills that provide documented data-driven results. When student progress is hindered by their lack of study skills, it is our job to help them learn the skills necessary to make improvements that will help them find academic success. But how can we teach these study skills and know that students made a meaningful improvement? It takes time, patience, practice opportunities, and good data recording. Here’s what I have done in my own program to help teach study skills. # Identify Target Student Group, Get Baseline Data This means that you need to talk with teachers, review progress and report card data, and collect other information that may be blocking a student’s progress.Ask yourself questions.Is attendance a contributor to poor grades?Does the student take advantage of extra help opportunities? Are they receiving academic improvement services? Does the student’s home situation create an obstacle for homework? Keep a chart of this data, and leave room for notes and progress monitoring. [![teaching study skills make sure to collect student data](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Slide3-300x232.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/study-skills/slide3-3/) [![teaching study skills. make sure to collect student data](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Slide2-300x232.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/study-skills/slide2-6/) #### ***[Download the Study Skills Student Data Sheets Here](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Study-SkillsExecutive-Functioning-Student-Data-Collection-Sheet-3431447?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Study%20Skills%20102017)*** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5D94CD” link\_color=”#000000″\] # Set Goals and Make Them Public This doesn’t mean to broadcast them over your school’s announcement system, but it does mean to share them with their teachers and their parents/guardians. Publicly announcing one’s goals increases accountability and likelihood of followthrough. It’s harder not to obtain them if everyone knows what they are and is helping to support them. Using a weekly goal setting sheet can be helpful in keeping everyone on task as well as by helping to break large goals into manageable chunks. # ![teaching study skills and setting goals with students](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Picture1.png) Teach Skills and Allow Practice Opportunities Teaching the skills that you want your students to know isn’t enough. You have to allow plenty of practice opportunities for them to really understand and habituate the skill. With this said, it’s important that study skills groups last more than a few consecutive days, but rather span over a series of weeks. # Narrow Behaviors and Use a Check-In/Check-Out Sheet For most of my students, organization and homework completion are the biggest obstacles to their success. I use a [ check in/check-out sheet ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Daily-Check-In-and-Check-Out-Sheet-1462355?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Study%20Skills%20102017)that is completed by the student, the teachers, and the parent each day. Two or 3 behaviors are identified and charted each day. For my students, it may be: 1) Came prepared with completed homework and 2) Understands assignment and has materials necessary to complete it. In addition, I may identify another behavior for home: 3) Cleaned binder and made sure all papers are in appropriate folders. To incentivize these behaviors, I made connections with some local store and restaurants like [Applebee’s](http://www.flapjackfunds.com/page.php?id=2) and use coupons if they achieved a certain number of checks or signatures for the week. I also check in my students every few days as well to see how they are doing with their goal sheet. I also pull up their grades and assignments and if they have slipped in their progress, we make a plan to catch them back up. # Make Study Skills Fun When starting any type of study skills program, make it fun. I try really hard to make sure that students have fun, are actively engaged, have small tasks, and are setting goals that are manageable to them. Part of teaching study skills is to also reinforce the concept that school and learning are fun, and they can be a part of that fun. ![Academic Success post test as part of teaching study skills](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Post-test.png) # Remember Change Won’t Happen Overnight I wish it did, but change takes time and a whole lot of work. Remember to track progress along the way. When your sessions are over, make sure to have students complete a session evaluation that asks them to recall information they learned over time. Feel free to pass this data onto your stakeholders as proof of the good work you do. It’s also a great visual reminder for yourself on days when you feel like you aren’t making headway! [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Study-Skills-Bundle-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/study-skills/study-skills-bundle/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Motivation-Bundle-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/study-skills/motivation-bundle/) For examples of Study Skills Curriculum, check out the [Study Skills](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Study-Skills-Bundle-1677963?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Study%20Skills%20102017) and [Motivation](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Motivation-Small-Group-or-Classroom-Lesson-Executive-Functioning-Bundle-3044398?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Study%20Skills%20102017) Counseling Programs that I run. ![teaching study skills to middle school students requires direct teaching, data collection, setting goals, and providing practice opportunities.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Pin-Teaching-Study-Skills.png) **Categories:** Class Lessons, Counseling **Tags:** organizational skills, study skills --- ### [Conversations: Addressing Cutting and Self-Harm](https://confidentcounselors.com/cutting-self-injury/) **Published:** October 22, 2017 **Author:** Mental Fills, Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop and Carol Miller Counseling Essentials **Content:** # Addressing Cutting Behaviors Cutting and other non-suicidal self-harm behaviors are signs of situations in need of immediate attention. School counselors are often among the first to become aware of these behaviors and have an opportunity to respond quickly and effectively. Robyn from Mental Fills, Laura from Social Emotional Workshop, and Carol Miller, The Middle School Counselor share some tips from their experiences. Please check out the links at the bottom of this post for additional best practices. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd” link\_color=”#000000″\] # Ensure Safety, Remain Nonjudgemental [![Mental Fills on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/mental-fills.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/counselor-stores/mental-fills-2/)Cutting behaviors are maladaptive coping strategies to emotional distress. Although suicidal thoughts may be coupled with self-harm, typically the cutting is more an attempt to release disturbing and overwhelming feelings. In all cases, complete a suicide assessment as a first approach, followed by a safety assessment. Individuals that use cutting as a strategy to manage their emotions may have been exposed to abuse or neglect. Ensure their home and school environment are safe. Complete mandatory reports as necessary. Once you are certain of their safety, work on a plan to address the cutting behaviors. Help identify the trigger, the purpose behind their cutting, validate the emotions related to the trigger, and over time teach coping strategies using DBT skills training, including mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal relationship skills. Helpful assessment questions asked in a neutral nonjudgmental manner include:[![Self-care plan for self-harm behaviors](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/My-Crisis-Plan.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Crisis-and-Relapse-Prevention-Plan-for-Self-Harm-Cutting-or-Suicide-Ideation-1869562?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Cutting%20Behaviors) - What triggered you to cut? - What did you use to cut yourself? - Where did you cut yourself? - Were you attempting to die or relieve your emotional pain? - What were you hoping would happen when you cut on yourself? - Where were you when you cut yourself? Who else was nearby? What would have happened if they walked in the room? Were you secretly hoping someone would stop you? - If your scars could talk what would they say you were feeling at the time? - What kept you from cutting deeper? - What other body parts do you cut? Do you hide it? If so, why? - Where do you keep the cutting tool? Would you be willing to hand it in/throw it away? - Do you want to stop cutting? What is your understanding of what could happen if you keep cutting? - What other ways have you harmed yourself (i.e. burning, hair pulling, punching, pinching…)? - How often do you cut yourself? - Have you ever cut yourself that you required stitches? - How long have you gone without cutting yourself? What do you attribute to this? - What would happen if you used your words to share your feelings instead of cutting? - Who in your life takes you serious? Listens to you? Supports you? - Would you be open to trying another strategy to cope with the emotional pain (i.e. ice cubes, draw with a red marker on your skin, exercise, call a crisis line)? [A crisis plan for self-harm can be found here](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Crisis-and-Relapse-Prevention-Plan-for-Self-Harm-Cutting-or-Suicide-Ideation-1869562). – [Mental Fills](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mental-Fills) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd” link\_color=”#000000″\] # Cutting Can Be Addictive [![Social Emotional Workshop](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Logo2017-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop)Often a student cuts when emotionally overwhelmed. That emotion could be anger, anxiety, stress, sadness. Cutting is a (maladaptive) way to cope with those feelings. If it was that simple, we could teach any replacement behavior, build up coping skills, and extinguish it. An important part to understand about self-injurious behaviors, like cutting, is that they can be addictive. When a student cuts, feel-good endorphins rush through their bodies. That student just took the edge off those overwhelming emotions. And they will want to again in the future. My approach to cutting behaviors definitely involves addressing the triggers that cause it, but also the endorphin release that maintains the behavior. How do you replace a behavior that makes something bad feel better? When they get the urge to cut, I have had students snap a rubber band on their wrist as an immediate replacement, while we work on more adaptive behaviors. We continue to work on managing strong emotions with mindfulness and break passes. Cutting is a significant sign of greater mental health issues, poor coping skills, and potential trauma. Make sure you are consulting with your school team, outside professionals, and the student’s family. -Laura from [Social Emotional Workshop](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd” link\_color=”#000000″\] # Support Friends and Bystanders [![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg)](http://bit.ly/290jQIg)I find most students who cut do so, not because they are suicidal, but because they are seeking a release from the sadness and pain they are feeling inside. Their troubles are seeking a way of asking for help that they have no words for. Most students are brought to me by their friends and it is scary for those who witness from afar. There are two things in these situations that need to be addressed. First is the cutting, and the second is taking care of those who are scared by seeing their friends engaging in self-destructive behaviors. It is important to note, that these situations should be addressed separately through individual counseling. For those that self-injure, I often talk about replacement behaviors. Ice cubes on wrists or magic markers are replacements for several of the sensations students seek. Talking about negative thoughts and replacements is another important strategy. For those friends who are concerned, we talk about “what to do if” situations. It’s important to make sure that students realize what course of action should happen if a friend calls them about a dangerous situation. Arming them with the tools they need to make good decisions can be life-saving. – [Carol Miller – The Middle School Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5d94cd” link\_color=”#000000″\] # Best Practices – Cutting Behaviors [Cornell – Self Injury Recovery Research and Resources](http://www.selfinjury.bctr.cornell.edu/resources.html) [National Alliance on Mental Illness](https://www.nami.org/Learn-More/Mental-Health-Conditions/Related-Conditions/Self-harm) [Child Mind- What Drives Self-Injury and How to Treat It.](https://childmind.org/article/what-drives-self-injury-and-how-to-treat-it/) ![addressing cutting, self-harm, self-injury behaviors in school with evidence-based, effective, and responsive approaches.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Pin-Confident-Counselors-Conversations-2.png) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Crisis Response **Tags:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials, CC tips, Mental Fills, self harm, Social Emotional Workshop --- ### [Conversations: Phone Calls from an Angry Parent](https://confidentcounselors.com/phone-calls-angry-parent/) **Published:** October 27, 2017 **Author:** Laurie P Mendoza, Counselor Keri and Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor and 1 more **Content:** # How Do You Handle a Phone Call from an Angry Parent? It may be one of the worst parts of the job and seems to happen at 3:05 on a Friday afternoon. Those calls are tough to manage and tough to not take personally. Take a deep breath and check out our colleagues’ great tips for turning that call around into a productive problem-solving relationship. You will see that listening is a common theme. 😉 \[su\_divider divider\_color=”#5D94CD” link\_color=”#000000″\] # Listen and Be Honest ![School Counseling Files](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/School-Counseling-Files-Round-150x150.png)As long as they’re not being verbally abusive (in which case I tell them we can talk once they’re calmer and then hang up), the first thing to do is listen. Don’t duck their calls, don’t get defensive, don’t try and rebut each point as it arises, just listen. When people are upset, they need to feel heard before they can get to a point where they can articulate what they want to see happen. Reflect what you hear them saying to make sure you’re getting it right. Only move on to brainstorming and problem-solving once you fully understand. And whatever you do, be honest. They may not like everything you have to say but will respect you for being straight with them. **-Laurie Mendoza, [School Counseling Files](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com/)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5D94CD” link\_color=”#000000″\] # Problem Solve ![Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Counselor-Keri-150x150.png)When I receive a phone call from an angry parent, I find that simply listening is the most helpful tactic. I proactively remind myself to not take it personally because it truly isn’t about me. Oftentimes, parents feel like they haven’t been heard or have been previously met with opposition, so they are naturally feeling angry or frustrated. After they have said everything they need to say, I reflect back what they are feeling and redirect the conversation to problem-solving. What can we do together to solve this problem? I find that this problem-solving perspective often serves to de-escalate the situation. As we focus on how we can improve the situation, parents become more open to hearing data and facts as they realize that we have the same goal: student success. **-Keri from [Counselor Keri](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5D94CD” link\_color=”#000000″\] # Be on Their Team [![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/counselor-stores/counselor-up-2/)Parents are often angry because they want what’s best for their child and don’t think that is happening. When speaking with an angry parent, I use my best reflective listening skills and check often for understanding. I make sure to always say something like “We are committed to working hard for your child. It sounds like adjustments need to be made. Let’s make a plan.” This allows the parents to hear in one sentence that 1-I care about what happens, 2- I acknowledge that there is room for change, and 3-I am their partner in making a plan for their child. I find that one side is rarely all in the wrong or all in the right. Even if the only adjustment that we can make is to increase communication, we are still changing our behavior to better meet the needs of the family. You can read all of my [parent communication posts](http://www.counselorup.com/blog/category/parent-communication) over on the blog, angry phone calls always go better when the parent already knows you and your amazing work with kids. Trust goes a long way! **– Rebecca from [Counselor Up](http://www.counselorup.com)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5D94CD” link\_color=”#000000″\] # Give Time to Cool Down [![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/counselor-stores/mrs-bell-the-crafty-counselor-2/)When I receive a phone call from an angry parent, the first thing I do is let them talk and get it all out. I let them tell me everything that happened from their point of view so they feel heard and validated. I listen closely until they have explained all that they need to explain. Then I ask questions and check for understanding to let them know that I care and that I am here to help them. Depending on the situation, I tell the parent that I am going to investigate further and will call them back later in the day. This provides a little bit of cool-down time for the parent. It also gives me time to gather additional information and come up with solutions. Once I have gathered all necessary details about the issue, I call the parent back and try to work with them to come up with a plan that makes everyone happy and solves the problem. Cool down time for parents and the ability to have a full picture of what happened is key for me! – **Ashley from** **[Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor)** \[su\_divider divider\_color=”#5D94CD” link\_color=”#000000″\] ![Confident Counselors Conversations on handling a phone call from an angry parent](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Pin-Confident-Counselors-Conversations-3.png) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Parents **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Keri, Counselor Up, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, parents, School Counseling Files --- ### [5 School Counseling Activities Using Index Cards](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-ways-index-cards-school-counseling/) **Published:** October 30, 2017 **Author:** Laurie P Mendoza **Content:** We at Confident Counselors are a thrifty bunch and love nothing better than to find new counseling activities that incorporate items we already have on hand. Last time I wrote about [5 Ways to Use Toilet Paper Tubes](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/5-ways-tp-crafts-school-counseling/); this time I’m going to share ideas for using something you almost definitely have in your desk drawer: index cards. # Worry Board ![School counseling activities that use common items you probably already have in your office.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-worry-board-193x300.jpeg)Set up a Worry Board in your office. Students write their biggest worry or problem of the week on an index card, write their name or initials on the other side, then hang it (worry side down for privacy) on the board. The bigger the worry, the higher they should place the card. Then next week, they check their worry to see if they still have it and, if so, whether it’s gotten bigger or smaller. You can read more here: [http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com/worry-board.html.](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com/worry-board.html) # Micro-Books Make a micro-book. What kid doesn’t love tiny books? Deana at Primary Punch has her students make [books about non-fiction topics](http://primarypunch.blogspot.com/2013/04/informative-mini-books.html), but you could use this idea for all kinds of counseling-related topics: My Family, Three Wishes, or My Zones of Regulation. # Growth Mindest Magic ![School Counseling activities using common materials you have in your house or office. ](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/3-magic-trick-150x150.jpeg) Use this “magic” trick to demonstrate creative problem-solving or growth mindset. Challenge students to find a way to cut an index card so that it can fit over their heads (or even their bodies, if they’re little kids!) while keeping it in one piece. Watch [this video](https://www.wikihow.com/Fit-Your-Body-Through-an-Index-Card) to learn the secret method. # Power Cards Give kids **power cards**. If you’ve used social stories before, get ready to love power cards. Power cards are portable visual reminders about concepts or strategies you want kids to remember once they leave your office. They can travel from class to class with the student, and they allow other staff to provide cues simply by pointing to the cards instead of talking at the child. Find a theme that resonates with him or her and you’re golden. For example, my first attempt at making power cards was these [Worry Ninja Power Cards](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Worry-Ninja-Power-Cards-1104635?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Index%20Cards%20Post), which I’m still using with my anxious kids four years later. ![School Counseling activities using common materials you have in your house or office. ](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/4-power-cards-300x228.jpeg) # Smile File Keep a **smile file**. We all have those days when we wonder why on earth we ever thought we could do this job or can’t remember why we even wanted to. On those days, wouldn’t it be nice to flip through your box of sweet, funny, or otherwise uplifting school counseling memories? When something happens during the course of a day that makes you laugh or love your students or your job, jot it down on an index card and put it in a box. The Helpful Counselor has a [super](http://www.thehelpfulcounselor.com/counselorandeducatorselfcaresmilefile/) blog post about it. # Do You Use Index Cards in Your Counseling Activities? ![school counseling activities using common materials in your home or office. Use index cards to create mini books, growth mindset problem solving, power cards, smile files.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Pin-5-Ways.jpg) **Categories:** Counsel It Yourself (CIY), Quick Activities **Tags:** counseling activities --- ### [Strategies for Managing Negative Attention Seeking](https://confidentcounselors.com/managing-negative-attention-seeking/) **Published:** November 1, 2017 **Author:** Mental Fills **Content:** # STOP, DROP, ROLL and CONNECT I want to share a few helpful strategies I have found useful in managing negative attention seeking children. These are the children that push our buttons. They do what they can to sabotage yours or the group’s focus, and it’s frustrating. I am talking about the kids that whine, tattle tell, make obnoxious jokes, exaggerate, lie, question your materials, avoid assignments, and even the children that overly offer help at the most inappropriate times. ![Negative Attention Seeking](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/stop-300x225.jpg) I want to clarify that these children do not have malicious intentions. They are not consciously manipulating you or plotting their agenda. What they are doing is begging for help and begging for a **connection.** They are looking for a way to pull your attention onto them. They want you to give them supportive validation and/or directions to something they are not comfortable with or do not understand. When you focus on them, regardless of their behavior they feel connected and secure. So when David becomes disruptive and begins making fun of another child, and you notice yourself getting irritated and reacting by retaliating, punishing, or making snide remarks, David’s agenda to connect was successful. Sure, it doesn’t make sense that David would want this type of attention, but his and the other children’s behaviors have been negatively reinforced by other peers or adults. In other words, they are just doing what has worked for them in the past. The problem continues when you react to these disruptive behaviors. It fuels the children to escalate, which negatively impacts your focus or the group dynamics. This just adds to your frustration. And, the cycle continues. Unfortunately, this has become your problem now, and it is your job to teach socially appropriate strategies to get their needs met. Here is where I want to introduce you to as an effective technique. It not only helps you respond in a prideful manner but helps change the negative attention seeking behaviors. The strategy I have been using for years is the STOP, DROP, and ROLL technique. # STOP ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/stop2-300x225.jpg) The first step is STOP. Stop reacting. Similar to what you would tell your children, what I want you to do is freeze and take some deep breaths. Remind yourself that this is their way of **trying to connect**, and if you react they will only get worse. So while you take your deep breaths, imagine an invisible bubble around you and their words ricocheting off of the bubble. Model to the children in the room that you can calm yourself down. Sometimes I will get up and walk to the quiet area of a room and say in the calmest voice I can muster, “I am frustrated and I need to take some deep breaths,” or “I am going to think of my happy place while I count to thirty.” Overall, the STOP technique provides a boundary to an unhelpful reaction, while simultaneously modeling emotional control to those in the room. # DROP![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/drop-225x300.jpg) The next step is the DROP technique. What I want you to do is drop your defenses. Let go of the thought children have power and control over your self-worth. Remind yourself the children are **trying to connect**, and even though sometimes they can do this in the cruelest way, do not take anything personally. So when David teases your favorite child or calls you out for making an error, do not feel the need to defend anyone or yourself, and at all costs do not play the blame game. As you teach children, use self-talk to tell yourself that you are competent, everyone is going to be okay, and this child is trying to connect in the best way they know how. # ROLL![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/roll-out-164x300.jpg) The last step is ROLL. Roll out the positives. As long as safety is not a concern, ignore the negative behavior and redirect your immediate attention on the children making positive choices. Roll out the compliments and the acknowledgments for the behaviors in the room that you want to see replicated. At the same time, remind yourself the child causing a disruption is **trying to connect** and this is your opportunity to teach him how to positively connect. For this reason, although we are ignoring the negative behavior, we do not ignore the child. Feed their need to connect by finding something you can refocus on. For example, when David makes fun of Zachary’s answer after following the above steps, I may say, “Zachary, I appreciate your participation and your calm behavior.” “David, I like how you are sitting calmly and keeping your hands to yourself.” Your reactions may seem disingenuous and you may think to yourself this is something that you shouldn’t have to do. But, this ROLL technique is necessary to help control disruptive behaviors. Going out of your way to acknowledge positive behaviors is a must to building connections. In fact, your biggest troublemakers will thrive with this positive attention. # CONNECT![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/connect-300x225.jpg) I have learned through the years that children don’t “want attention,” they NEED attention. Set aside some blocked time before or after your formal session to just sit down and chat. Ask them how they are doing, about their family, their friendships, hobbies, and their pets. Ask for their help or advice, and offer your support. Make them feel important with your undivided attention. The time you invest in connecting with them will pay off in the long run. As you consistently try the STOP, DROP, and ROLL technique, even with your own children, you will be on your way to having children that are positively seeking connections. ## What’s in your bag of tricks for managing negative attention seeking? ###### [~written by Mental Fills](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mental-Fills) ![Managing negative attention seeking with a simple 3 step process from Robyn at Mental Fills](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Pin-Managing-Neg-Attention.png) Save **Categories:** Behavior, Classroom Management **Tags:** behavior intervention --- ### [School Counselor's Gratitude Journal](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselors-gratitude-journal/) **Published:** November 6, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Up **Content:** ### Dear Diary, In honor of Thanksgiving, I am going to be writing a gratitude journal. I am so thankful for today, especially the coffee that I spilled, the milk that was spoiled, the kid that spit on me in 3rd period. But I digress. I am honored and grateful to be a school counselor and these are a few of my favorite things (picture me spinning on a hilltop). ![pumpkin muffins in the break room](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-300x157.jpg) Just when I thought I was so hungry I might begin to digest myself in some desperate bid for survival, I walk into the break room. I’m pretty sure I left a yogurt in there a few weeks ago and it might still be OK. It could be questionable, but life is precious and I’m willing to take the necessary risks to make it til the end of the day. Seriously, my grandma would be ill-advised to get between me and food right now. But then. But then! I spy a plate of pumpkin spice muffins on the table. Not just any muffins but delicious, amazing muffins from that mom that can bake instead of the one where you check everything for cat hair. I’m not going to lie, my eyes fill with grateful tears and I’m pretty sure there is a muffin fairy after all. A glorious muffin fairy who might have saved my grandma from serious bodily harm. ![Cancelled Meetings](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/2-300x157.jpg) I finished my day without having to do any [major crisis interventions](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/that-thing-we-dont-talk-about) at dismissal, aside from mediating a dispute over the last pumpkin spice muffin. I think that I might be able to get enough energy to clean up my email so I can find [my email happy place](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/email-tranquility-strategies-to-find-your-inbox-happy-place), when I remember that we have the 1,285th staff meeting of the semester after school. I’m not really sure what’s on the agenda, but it’s probably bloodborne pathogens or emergency plans in case of a bear attack or some other thrilling topic. I start to pick up my planner and laptop to head to the media center when I hear the all call, “attention staff, the meeting today has been cancelled.” I can barely hear myself think over the shouts of joy in the hallway. Immediately, I imagine all the fun that my work friends and I can have instead of a meeting. Cupcakes, balloons, applying all the Minecraft advice we get from our students, getting home before dinner is cold. The world is our oyster. Haven’t seen that baking mom but at least my email will be answered and tomorrow planned. ![Comfortable shoes](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/3-300x157.jpg) Every day I wake up and think that the person who invented such comfortable heels really should get an award. I mean, I literally run half the day. On concrete floors. But I feel like I’m walking on air. Just kidding, comfortable heels don’t really exist. I’m grateful that while my school’s dress code strictly forbids many things, I am free to wear comfortable shoes. They may not be the most beautiful ever but I can rock my [teacher shoes on the daily](https://i.pinimg.com/736x/0b/1a/7d/0b1a7db12641eb75094ff0766c3eb246--cute-teacher-outfits-teaching-outfits.jpg). ![Interventions that work ](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/4-300x157.jpg) Let’s get real. Sometimes I work until my fingers are short bleeding nubs to try to help a student and then nothing. We try new ideas, I try wrap around services, we try new team meetings. Nothing. But when [an intervention works](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/three-tier-intervention-model-for-school-counselors). When it really works. The kid does better. They learn more. They smile at their success. Yeah, it doesn’t get any better than that. ![Planning Time](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/5-300x157.jpg) As you know, diary, in our state, teachers are required to have one hour of planning time a day. It’s OK, I’ll pause while you finish laughing……… Ready? Yeah, so counselors aren’t considered teachers. When was the last time I took planning time on an actual school day? Hmmm. Hold on. Let me look at [my planner](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/its-planner-time). Still looking. Wait, just a minute. OK, sorry – I’m back. I don’t remember. But, today. Today! I sat at my desk while 4th grade was on a field trip and actually made some plans. And updated my curriculum plan. And returned phone calls. It was amazing. I think I will float on a cloud all day. ![Students achieving goals](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/6-300x157.jpg) Finally, my dear diary, today I got a call from the parent of a child that I worked with a few years ago. He had a dream to get into college with a scholarship. And guess what? He got it! Nothing is better than watching the smiles on my students’ faces and the tears in their parents’ eyes. Cause you know? I really do have [the best job out there](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/happy-school-counselor-week). Thanks, diary, I needed that! ![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Signature-300x116.png) ![Gratitude Journal](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/A-School-Counselors-Gratitude-Journal-Pin.png) **Categories:** Self Care **Tags:** gratitude, self care --- ### [Conversations: Confidentiality in School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/confidentiality-school-counseling/) **Published:** November 3, 2017 **Author:** Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop, Laurie P Mendoza and Counselor Up **Content:** What do you share with parents, teachers or your administration about a student’s progress or participation in school counseling services? Is your confidentiality policy considerate of student trust as well as student growth? \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5D94CD” link\_color=”#000000″\] # All or Nothing Confidentiality Policies Limit Progress [![Social Emotional Workshop](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Logo2017.png)](http://www.socialemotionalworkshop.com)Confidentiality is there to build trust and rapport while working towards goals. Students, elementary through high school, benefit from wrap-around services to make meaningful progress. They need multiple adults helping them practice skills and reinforcing their efforts. If we do not share information with relevant adults, I think we limit the progress they could make. I used the following approach to maintain trust with students while sharing key information that promoted their growth. During our first meeting, I told students the limits of confidentiality (harm to self or others). Next, I told them there was general information that would be helpful to share with others. This included strategies the student was using, progress on a goal, conflicts with another student. They would be told who was getting this information. Lastly, there would be times that I would ask their permission to share things that was uncomfortable for them, but useful for their progress. This usually was helping them admit a mistake or talk to someone about negative feelings they were having. Stopping your confidentiality policy at only discussing possible harm with others limits student growth and your effectiveness. – Laura Driscoll from [Social Emotional Workshop](http://www.socialemotionalworkshop.com) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5D94CD” link\_color=”#000000″\] # Find the Balance by Being an Advocate [![School Counseling Files](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/School-Counseling-Files-Round.png)](http://schoolcounselingfiles.com)It’s often tough to strike that balance between maintaining students’ confidentiality and communicating with the adults who—after all—spend so much more time with them than I do. I encourage kids to let their teachers know if they’re having an issue that’s impacting them at school, and will always volunteer to be present for the conversation (or even to speak on their behalf) if it will make them more comfortable. If the child doesn’t want to share, then I simply tell the teacher that the student is having a hard time right now and may need some extra patience, movement breaks, and TLC. The teachers in my building are wonderful and never press for more details than I can provide. – Laurie Mendoza, [School Counseling Files](http://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5D94CD” link\_color=”#000000″\] # No Surprises in Confidentiality [![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)](http://counselorup.com)I am passionate that little humans need the support of the adults in their life when they are working on something. Whether that be grief, behavior, self-esteem, or any other concern that’s going on with them. I always tell teachers and parents that they will know what the child is working on even if I don’t share all the details. Each session ends by saying, “You have some ideas that you are going to try this week. I think it might be helpful if you mom (or other adult at home) and teacher knew what you were working on. What do you think we should tell them?” So far in 15 years, I have never had a student who didn’t want me to tell the adults in their life something. If I think we need to share more, I’ll be honest with the child and make a plan they can be comfortable with. Even in the case of mandated reporting, I never want a child to step off the bus not knowing what they are going to be walking into. That is the ultimate betrayal to confidentiality. – Rebecca Atkins, [Counselor Up](http://www.counselorup.com) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#5D94CD” link\_color=”#000000″\] Confidentiality always creates passionate debate among school mental health professionals. If you are in the process of developing or adjusting your confidentiality policy, look at the policies of your professional organization (e.g., NASP, [ASCA](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/PositionStatements/PS_Confidentiality.pdf), APA), state policies, and your district policy. If your district policy expects you to share more information than you think is ethical, use your professional organization and state policies to advocate for better practices. [ASCA: The School Counselor and Confidentiality](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/PositionStatements/PS_Confidentiality.pdf) [Why “Who is the Client?” is the Wrong Ethical Question](http://www.centerforethicalpractice.org/articles/articles-mary-alice-fisher/why-who-is-the-client-is-the-wrong-ethical-question/) [NASP: The Counseling Role in School Psychology](http://apps.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/books-and-products/samples/N1210_Chapter_1.pdf) ![Confidentiality. What do you share with parents, teachers, and administration about student progress and participation in school counseling? How do you decide what is and isn't confidential?](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Pin-Confident-Counselors-Conversations-4.png) **Categories:** Counseling, Counselor Chats **Tags:** CC tips, confidentiality, Counselor Up, School Counseling Files, Social Emotional Workshop --- ### [Self Control Strategies for the Classroom](https://confidentcounselors.com/self-control-strategies-classroom/) **Published:** November 13, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Chelsey **Content:** As a school counselor, teachers frequently come to me for advice on classroom management. Almost always, they are looking for self control strategies for students struggling in their classrooms. They have students in their classes that are blurting out, having anger outbursts, or constantly getting out of their seats. I also have had these same struggles in my own classroom lessons. So what could I tell these teachers and what could I use myself when students just couldn’t seem to control themselves? ## **Secret Code Word** This is one of my favorite interventions for students who don’t realize when their bodies or voices are out of control. If they don’t know they are out of control, it is difficult for them to do anything to fix it. For this strategy, the teacher and the student develop a secret code word to remind the student. It can be anything. I have had students use words like “donuts,” “popcorn,” or “vroom vroom.” The code word helps students become aware of their behaviors. ## **Calming Space** An important part of encouraging self regulation is to provide a space for students to go when they need to calm down and refocus. This is **NOT** a time-out or a punishment. It is simply a place where a student can choose to go if a break would help them to get back on track. A teacher or instructor may suggest that a student goes to the designated area, but a student should not be forced to go there. When setting up your area, you have many choices. Some of my favorite things to include in a calming area are stress balls or other fidgets, list of potential coping strategies, a glitter/rice bottle, paper and writing/coloring utensils. Another key item to include is a timer of some kind (sand timer, time timer, egg timer, etc.) to encourage students to return back to their task within a reasonable amount of time. Check out [Carol Miller- The Middle School Counselor’s](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor) and [EduKate and Inspire’s](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/2016/08/school-counselor-office-tour.html?showComment=1509070296823&m=1#c341575422106837190) calming spaces. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Screen-Shot-2017-11-01-at-11.23.31-AM-261x300.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/self-control-strategies-classroom/screen-shot-2017-11-01-at-11-23-31-am/) This calming space from EduKate and Inspire is complete with comfortable seating and stuffed animal friends to help her students self regulate. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Screen-Shot-2017-11-01-at-11.24.00-AM-223x300.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/self-control-strategies-classroom/screen-shot-2017-11-01-at-11-24-00-am/) This “Calm Corner” from Carol Miller – The Middle School Counselor gives students ideas of ways that they can calm down. ## **Make A Rhyme** In the book [***Clark The Shark***](http://amzn.to/2i2yT7w) by Bruce Hale, Clark cannot remember to use self control, no matter how hard he tries. This always breaks my heart because it reminds me of so many of my students. They ***want*** to make the right choices, but those pesky impulses get the best of them. In the book, Clark’s teacher urges him to create rhymes to help him remember to use his self control. I decided to run with this idea and use rhymes to help my own students who wanted so badly to do the right thing.They are easy for the students to remember and can be individualized to the specific skill the student is having trouble with. For example, you can make a rhyme about keeping your hands to yourself, not blurting out, not touching the walls, talking quietly, etc. I find this strategy even more effective when you involve the student in the creation of the rhyme. Students love being able to come up with different rhymes. The more involved they are, the more likely they are to remember their rhymes! Here are some sample rhymes that I have used with students to help them remember to use self control: ### **When I’m sitting still, my hands are chill.** ### **When my feet are walking, I’m not talking.** ### **When something comes to mind, I lift my hand to the sky.** ## **Talk About It** This may be the most simple tip, but I believe it is the most important. Self control is a skill. It is a skill that needs to be taught, talked about and encouraged. If our students have not learned about self control, we can’t expect them to use it. There are so many ways that you can teach about self control! Teachers can include it in their morning meetings, class rules, directions, and lessons they teach. Thankfully, there are dozens of picture books that help teach about self control. Some of my favorites are : [Lacey Walker, Nonstop Talker](http://amzn.to/2yPcLb5) by Christianne Jones [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00ESEEEQU&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20)](https://www.amazon.com/Lacey-Walker-Nonstop-Talker-Little-ebook/dp/B00ESEEEQU/ref=as_li_ss_il?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1510340535&sr=1-1&keywords=lacey+walker+nonstop+talker&linkCode=li2&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=d7bc3862b3c42b5c995c855810bd5b24)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&l=li2&o=1&a=B00ESEEEQU) [It’s Hard To Be A Verb](http://amzn.to/2zwrwyA) by Julia Cook [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1931636842&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20)](https://www.amazon.com/Its-Hard-Verb-Julia-Cook/dp/1931636842/ref=as_li_ss_il?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1510340671&sr=1-1&keywords=it's+hard+to+be+a+verb+by+julia+cook&linkCode=li2&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=bdb98af0f512b8828419bbe80865e3e5)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&l=li2&o=1&a=1931636842) [When I Feel Angry](http://amzn.to/2zwX4Ey) by Cornelia Spellman [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0807588970&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20)](https://www.amazon.com/When-Feel-Angry-Way-Books/dp/0807588970/ref=as_li_ss_il?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1510340719&sr=1-1&keywords=when+i+feel+angry&th=1&linkCode=li2&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=cb13f6a04350f4be45325c258b4c0c6e)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&l=li2&o=1&a=0807588970) One resource that I have found very helpful, specifically related to blurting out or interrupting, can be found [here](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Impulsivity-Resources-Blurt-Control-2207269?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=CW%20Self%20Control%20Post) in my [TeachersPayTeachers ](http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/CounselorChelsey?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=CW%20Self%20Control%20Post)[store](http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/CounselorChelsey?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=CW%20Self%20Control%20Post). It includes a poster, activities, reinforcement cards, and several documentation forms. Explicit and implicit instruction of this social skill is crucial to students being able to use it. [![This poster helps students learn when it is okay to blurt and when it is not.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Screen-Shot-2017-11-01-at-1.20.29-PM-284x300.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Impulsivity-Resources-Blurt-Control-2207269?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=CW%20Self%20Control%20Post)This poster is from my TpT store and teaches students when it is okay to blurt and when it is not! Students’ lack of self control can often leave teachers and other school staff feeling stuck and frustrated. Whether it is helping teachers with self control strategies for their students, or using them in your own lessons, I hope these tips will be what you need to support your students and all of their self control needs! ### **Do you have any self control strategies you find helpful?** ### **I would love to hear about them in the comments below!** ![Self control strategies for teachers and counselors in the classroom. Simple and effective.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/2-2.png) **Categories:** Behavior, Classroom Management **Tags:** adhd, behavior intervention, classroom lessons, self regulation --- ### [10 Minute Kindness Activities for the Classroom and Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/kindness_activities/) **Published:** November 8, 2017 **Author:** Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop **Content:** Creating a positive school culture is such an important step in engaging students in learning. Consistent and frequent kindness activities help build empathy, let students feel comfortable taking risks and create an accepting class community. Research shows that when students view their teacher as caring and kind, they have better attendance, better grades, and are more engaged in the classroom. Find the spare moments in the day, whether it is morning work or after recess, to integrate simple kindness activities that pack that punch. # Kindness Journal [Kindness Journals](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindness-Activities-for-the-Classroom-or-Counseling-2985789?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Kindness%20Activities%20112017) are a great way to have students reflect on what they can do to create a culture of kindness. You can use different prompts that have students reflect on kind acts they have done and kind acts that have been done for them. Even more powerful is having students then break out into discussion groups based on their responses. [The Kindness Journal](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindness-Activities-for-the-Classroom-or-Counseling-2985789?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Kindness%20Activities%20112017) prompts I have used have students think about actions they could take immediately, how kindness can change their classroom, and ways someone has been kind to them before. [![Kindness Activities - Journal for students in grades 2-4.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/3-1024x536.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindness-Activities-for-the-Classroom-or-Counseling-2985789?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Kindness%20Activities%20112017) # Compliment Circle At the end of your day or class, have students stand or sit in a circle. The student to your left can begin by choosing another student in the circle to give a compliment too. You can proceed around the circle with students choosing someone else who hasn’t been picked. To keep track and make sure all students receive a compliment, students can sit down (or stand up) after they receive a compliment. If you are concerned about students feeling bad if they are not picked until the end, pick out a name before you start and then go around the circle. # Kindness Jar [![Random Acts of Kindness Jar](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/2-300x300.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindness-Activities-for-the-Classroom-or-Counseling-2985789?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Kindness%20Activities%20112017)[Kindness Bingo](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Random-Acts-of-Kindness-Bingo-kindnessnation-2419415?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Kindness%20Post%20112017) or a [Kindness Calendar](https://www.randomactsofkindness.org/printables) is a great way to get students thinking about how they can show kindness to others in their class, school, home, or community. I love the idea of having a [Kindness Jar](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindness-Activities-for-the-Classroom-or-Counseling-2985789?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Kindness%20Activities%20112017) in the classroom filled with kind acts students can do right away. On Monday morning, students can choose one kind act they will do that week. Post them on a bulletin board when they are complete or use them as leaves on a [kindness tree](http://ripplekindness.org/15-inspiring-kindness-trees-found-in-schools/) or as petals in a kindness garden bulletin board. # Kindness Rocks! Garden Students in any grade can get on board with kindness rocks. Paint rocks and write an act of kindness on them. When a student completes that act of kindness, they get to write their name on the back, and “plant” the rock in the garden. Check out the [Kindness Rocks Project](http://thekindnessrocksproject.com/). # Have I Ever Told You? [![10 minute kindness activity that has students share kind thoughts about classmates.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/SQ-Have-I-ever-told-you-300x300.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindness-Activities-for-the-Classroom-or-Counseling-2985789?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Kindness%20Activities%20112017)This is a great activity for classes that might be shyer about sharing their kind thoughts. Each student receives a blank [“Have I Ever Told You” printout](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindness-Activities-for-the-Classroom-or-Counseling-2985789?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Kindness%20Activities%20112017). They put their names on the top and pass it to the person next to them. Everyone then writes down a compliment or kind thought in one of the categories and passes it along. This continues until each student receives their own sheet back. Depending on the number of students in your classroom, you may want to break students into smaller groups. Make sure to give students enough time, as well as guidelines for what to write (and not to write). # Thanks a Bunch [![Thanks a Bunch Note Cards to recognize staff and say thank you.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/IMG_1075-225x300.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindness-Activities-for-the-Classroom-or-Counseling-2985789?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Kindness%20Activities%20112017) Have students take time to thank someone in the school that normally does not receive their daily kudos. Students can [make cards](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindness-Activities-for-the-Classroom-or-Counseling-2985789?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Kindness%20Activities%20112017) for school staff like the custodian, the secretary, the bus driver, the nurse, or the principal. It can be helpful to involve the students in deciding who to pick so they take ownership. Often, students like to partner up to write the notes. It is awesome to see them brainstorming about all the way these unrecognized folks help them every day. # Make Kindness Sticky In one class I worked with, at the end of each week, students wrote down on sticky notes someone they wanted to shout-out. The shout-outs were thank yous, words of admiration, and simple warm thoughts they had about someone else. Did you know you can print on [sticky notes](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindness-Activities-for-the-Classroom-or-Counseling-2985789?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Kindness%20Activities%20112017)?? It’s my favorite. Leave them on students’ desks or a fellow staff member’s door. They are wonderful pick-me-ups that keep that culture of kindness going. [![Sticky notes with messages of kindness](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/2-1-1024x536.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindness-Activities-for-the-Classroom-or-Counseling-2985789?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Kindness%20Activities%20112017) ## How do you promote kindness in your school or classroom? **Keep the list of kindness activities going in the comments below!** Check out what other Confident Counselors do to [promote a culture of kindness](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/02/05/creating-a-culture-of-kindness/) in their schools. ![Kindness activities are great quick ways to build a culture of kindness in your classroom or school. Incorporate random acts of kindness, kindness jars, kindness journals, and thank you notes.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/1-683x1024.png) **Categories:** Class Lessons, Counseling **Tags:** counseling activities, kindness --- ### [Conversations: Students Struggling with Grief during the Holidays](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-students-struggling-grief-holiday/) **Published:** November 10, 2017 **Author:** Mental Fills and School Counselor Stephanie **Content:** Holidays can be a hard time for students who have experienced a loss. Following a death, divorce, or even after after moving, students can be blindsided by sadness or anger at the way things have changed. Mental Fills and School Counselor Stephanie have some great suggestions for helping students prepare and cope with grief during the holidays. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Make a Holiday Grief Plan ![Mental Fills on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/mental-fills.jpg) The holidays commonly resurface old feelings and memories of loved ones lost. Although everyone’s healing has a different pace, acknowledging that it is normal to feel grief during the holidays will bring helpful preparation to those grieving. Before the holidays approach, I help by creating a [Holiday Grief Plan](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Holiday-Grief-Self-Care-Plan-3457547?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Conversation%20Grief) that includes the children’s expectations of the holidays, new traditions to incorporate the memory of their loved one, and coping skills to manage grief, typical holiday stress, and feelings from unmet needs. I have found it effective when children include families in the Holiday Grief Plan, both through the writing of the plan and the discussion. [– Mental Fills](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mental-Fills?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Conversation%20Grief) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Solution Focused Brief Counseling ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/SchoolCounselorStephanie.png)The holiday season can be such a rough time for students who have gone or are going through the grief process. I make sure to check in with all my students who have dealt with grief issues during the months of November and December. Any students who experienced a loss can start a solution-focused brief grief curriculum with me at any time during the school year. This [SFBC grief curriculum](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cope-Into-Hope-Grief-Individual-Counseling-Guide-786900?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Conversation%20Grief), available in both and English and Spanish, includes follow-up activities for those students who need a check-in and refresher session during the holidays. –[ School Counselor Stephanie](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counselor-Stephanie?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Conversation%20Grief) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ### How do you support students who are struggling with grief during the holidays? Make sure to also take care of yourself during the holiday months: [Beating Holiday Stress and Burnout](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/11/27/beating-holiday-stress-burnout/). [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Holiday-Grief-Plan-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-students-struggling-grief-holiday/holiday-grief-plan/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Cope-into-Hope-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-students-struggling-grief-holiday/cope-into-hope/) ![Students struggling with grief during the holidays need preparation and support. School counselors can support through individual sessions and careful planning.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/15.png) **Categories:** Counseling, Counselor Chats **Tags:** CC tips, grief, holidays, Mental Fills, School Counselor Stephanie --- ### [7 Simple Ways to Calm an Angry Parent and Improve Parent Communication](https://confidentcounselors.com/calm-angry-parent/) **Published:** November 27, 2017 **Author:** The Counseling Teacher Brandy **Content:** From time to time, you are going to have a conversation with an angry parent. No matter how hard you try and how much you give, there will eventually be somebody who gets upset for one reason or the other. Remembering some simple rules for dealing with angry parents can help you improve your parent communication skills. Before you can begin to speak rationally with a parent who is upset, you must first try to discover the source of the anger. Knowing how a parent has arrived at their current state can be critical information in communicating effectively with them. # What are some common sources of anger in parents? ## Legitimate Concern The parent legitimately feels that their child’s rights are being violated. This could be based on truth or there could be a misunderstanding. Gathering more facts will be helpful in resolving these issues. ## Learned Behavior The parent has learned to get what they want by being aggressive. This may be the way they were raised to “get things done.” These squeaky wheels just want to be heard. Listening and letting them vent usually does the trick. Setting boundaries is important so that they do not vent too much and disrespect you. ## History of Negative School Experiences Past negative experiences with the school setting may have caused a general mistrust in the education process. These parents seem to have a chip on their shoulder and you might find yourself wondering why you can never please them. You will need to continue to reassure these parents that you have their child’s best interest in mind. ## Personality Conflicts Is it their personality or communication style? Some people are aggressive by nature and thrive on conflict and drama. Be careful not to be swept into an argument with someone who is looking for a fight. Set clear boundaries with parents who demand more than you can provide and who always seem to find a reason to pick you apart. # 7 Ways to Calm an Angry Parent ## 1. Model appropriate behavior Use a calm tone and do not allow your voice to raise if they raise their voice. Continue to smile and speak calmly. Use non-threatening body language that shows that you are open to what they have to say. ## 2. Validate their concerns Let them know right away that you understand that they are upset and you would like to help. Ask for more information and let them know that you genuinely want to find a solution. ## 3. Let them vent Listen and nod while they vent. Sometimes they need someone to listen. Letting them vent without being judged will be therapeutic for them. ## 4. Don’t take it personally Remember that there are many reasons or motivations behind a parents anger that often has nothing to do with you. Knowing this allows you to take a step back and remove your emotional reaction. ## 5. Use positive body language Show you are interested in what they are saying. Eye contact and leaning communicated openness. Be careful not to cross your arms or put your hands on your hips as these are seen as negative. ## 6. Set limits and boundaries You make the rules for the conversation. If an angry parent is shouting, you can tell them that you will not continue to listen unless they lower their voice. If they do not accept the boundaries, end the conversation and say that you will reschedule a time to talk when they are calm. ## 7. Follow up with a personal phone call Text and emails are impersonal. Tone and emotion are often misunderstood in writing, so a personal call is always the best way to communicate with an angry parent. Calling may be a bit more time consuming in the short-term, but this is one of the most effective ways to improve parent communication. [![Cool Down upset parents presentation for teachers](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Cool-Down-Upset-Parents.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Parent-Communication-Tips-to-Work-with-Angry-Parents-2497672?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Angry%20Parents%20112017) If your staff could use additional training on this topic, you could set up a time to show this [presentation](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Parent-Communication-Tips-to-Work-with-Angry-Parents-2497672) at a faculty meeting. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ### Check out more tips from one of our [Confident Counselors Conversations: How to Handle a Phone Call from an Angry Parent.](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/27/phone-calls-angry-parent/) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![7 simple ways to calm an angry parent and improve communication. Essential strategies for school counselors.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Slide04.jpg) Save **Categories:** Parents **Tags:** collaboration, parents --- ### [Tales, Fibs, and Lies: Working with Students Who Lie](https://confidentcounselors.com/students-who-lie/) **Published:** November 20, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Keri **Content:** Tall tales, little fibs, or flat out lies: how do you work with students who stretch the truth? While some adults might be inclined to tackle lying head on with confrontation, confident counselors know these situations may require more delicate footing. Let’s take a look at a few things to consider when faced with lying behavior. ![How do you work with students who lie? Read more to find school counseling interventions for handling lying behavior.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/working-with-300x167.png) # Determine the Function of the Lie Perhaps most important when working with students who lie is determining the function of the lie. Is your student lying to avoid punishment or is he lying to gain approval of adults or peers? Like all behavior, understanding the function of the lie will help us to forge the path ahead in working with the student. Ask yourself, what happened before the lie? What was going on in the classroom or in the social context? Conduct a functional behavior analysis to gain insight into the context of the student’s behavior. # Students Who Lie to Avoid Punishment ## Classroom Culture If your functional behavior analysis reveals that the lying behavior serves to avoid punishment, consider the classroom and school-wide consequences. Are the consequences in place developmentally appropriate for the student? Does the student feel that the consequences are fair? This might also involve having a delicate conversation with other professionals about appropriate ways to react in these situations. If the student feels that an adult is over-reacting or reacting in a harsh manner, she may be lying to avoid encountering this type of response from the adult. Advocate for [trauma-informed classroom training](http://www.traumainformedcareproject.org/resources/bibliography%20of%20resources%20for%20schools%20to%20be%20trauma%20informed.PDF) in your building if you suspect these practices are lacking. ## Rules and Expectations When working with the student, revisit school and classroom rules. *Reteach rules and expectations*, making sure that the student understands what is expected and the consequences in place for not meeting the expectations. Avoid power struggles over what is or is not true – this is never going to change the behavior! ## Skill-Building Return to your FBA, and *focus on teaching skills to manage the antecedent*. For example, if the student lied about completing his homework in order to avoid punishment from the classroom teacher for not having his homework complete, focus on problem solving the incomplete homework. What barriers are preventing the student from completing homework? Does he need additional tutoring? Does he have the supplies he needs to complete the assignment? Guide the student through the problem solving process in order to eliminate the need for the lie altogether. Role-playing being honest can help your student internalize how it sounds to tell the truth. Create a list of scenarios in which your student might be inclined to lie and work on role-playing together to help your student figure out a way to be honest that feels natural and comfortable to him. ## Reinforcement Look for every opportunity to *praise instances of telling the truth*. Returning to the homework example, if your student shares that he lied because he didn’t do his homework and didn’t want the teacher to yell at him in front of the class, respond with gratitude, “Thank you for being honest with me about your homework. I know that can be hard to do sometimes. Let’s work together to figure out how you can get your homework done in the future.” Empower your student to eliminate his own need to lie in the future! Encourage classroom teachers and other faculty members the student encounters to follow suit by praising him for telling the truth *and* to avoid punishing him for being honest as well. # Students Who Lie to Gain Approval ## Perspective-Taking If your FBA reveals that your student is lying to gain approval from peers or adults, work on perspective-taking with your student. Help the student consider how her peers feel when they learn that she lied to them. Explore instances when someone has lied to her and help her to process how she felt in that moment to expand her perspective of her peers’ reactions. ## Rebuilding Trust Work with your student to create a plan for rebuilding trust with her peers or the adults she’s lied to. Help her to identify specific situations she might encounter in which she can be honest. For your student, this might look like an open discussion with an apology or it might simply be a plan for what facts she is willing to share when given the opportunity. ## Outlet If your student thrives on the tall tales she creates, give her an outlet! Provide your student with a journal that she can record her stories or tales in rather than misleading others. Empower her to create a fictional world that is just for her. You might even help your student learn more about fiction authors to help her see how her love for creating fictional stories could turn into a future career! ## Opportunities for Approval If your student is desiring approval but going about it in all the wrong ways, create a system that allows the student to receive the approval she desires in an appropriate way. Set up a check-in/check-out system, find meaningful tasks for the student in the classroom or school, find a mentor for the student, or let the student fill a leadership role. ## Skill-Building Work on improving your student’s [self concept and self esteem](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Esteem-Folder-Game-Elementary-School-Counseling-2804187) so that she feels confident in who she is! Help her to build confidence and find comfort in her own skin so that she can find approval from within. # Final Considerations Recognize that the lying behavior might effectively serve the student in some area of his life. Perhaps the student lies to avoid punishment at home because the punishment truly is not appropriate. Or maybe your student does not feel accepted in certain areas of her life and will do or say just about anything to feel validated by peers or adults. As always, take a look at your student as a *whole person* with experiences and needs to develop a compassionate view that with help you to positively forge a path to effective behavior intervention. ![How do you work with students who lie? Read more to find school counseling interventions for handling lying behavior.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Red-White-and-Blue-Theme-Ideas.png) SaveSave **Categories:** Behavior, Individual Counseling **Tags:** cheating, lying --- ### [Conversations: How Do You Make Restorative Justice Meaningful and Effective?](https://confidentcounselors.com/restorative-justice-practices/) **Published:** November 17, 2017 **Author:** The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store and Little Miss Counselor **Content:** Restorative justice is the kind of approach that school counselors should be advocating for in their districts. When implemented well, it has the ability to shift the focus from punishment to repairing and learning from mistakes. How do you get your administrators and teachers on board with this paradigm shift? Even more important, how do you make it a meaningful and effective experience for students? \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Restorative Questions are Key ![The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store.jpg)Restorative justice practices emphasize the importance of positive relationships and ***restoring*** these relationships when ***harm*** has occurred. Restorative justice practices decrease behavior issues, discipline referrals and bullying, while increasing in instructional time, school climate, and positive relationships between staff and students. An essential part of using Restorative Practices is the use of [restorative questions](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Restorative-Questions-and-Conflict-Option-Wheel-2930921?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Conversations%20Restorative%20Justice) help to help students learn to reflect on their behavior choices. These questions focus on the incident, and how the choices that the student made affected the student as well as others. Restorative questions help students develop empathy and problem-solving skills while holding them accountable for repairing the consequences of their choices. When thinking of options to help student’s repair harm, I often think of logical consequences. These consequences help students to learn and grow from mistakes. They are logically connected to the student’s behavior choice. Whether it is something that was damaged or someone’s feelings hurt, an individual can attempt to fix it. Possible options for repairing harm: help fix what you damaged, clean up a mess you made, or offer a sincere apology. [– The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Conversations%20Restorative%20Justice) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Educator Buy-In ![Little Miss Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/13814598_984575921664069_217302344_n-300x268.jpg)One thing educators agree about is how we strive for all students to graduate high school. When students are suspended, their risk of dropping out of high school increases. Currently, I am in the process of leading a small group of educators in my district about restorative justice practices. We meet 6 times throughout the year for 2 hours during each session. Getting educator buy-in during implementation is essential for restorative discipline to be used and used effectively. I started off by giving each person a teacher discipline style quiz to be used as a baseline before the training began. We will take one again in the last session and compare the changes that have taken place over sessions. I can’t wait to see how the results change. We engaged in meaningful conversations regarding our core beliefs about behavior. We reflected on how we as individuals can make a difference with students. Consider the questions you ask them, focus on the individual that was harmed, and look at repairing and rebuilding relationships. Since the topic of restorative practices can be serious, one thing I did as the facilitator to help break the ice was to use [restorative practices coloring pages](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Restorative-Practices-Coloring-Pages-3417244?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Conversations%20Restorative%20Justice). Use these pages with children, educators, and parents! I was surprised how much my group enjoyed them. [– Little Miss Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ### How do you approach Restorative Practices in your school? [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Restorative-coloring-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/restorative-justice-practices/restorative-coloring/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Restorative-Questions-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/restorative-justice-practices/restorative-questions/) ![making restorative justice effective and meaningful](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/16.png) **Categories:** Behavior, Counselor Chats **Tags:** CC tips, Little Miss Counselor, restorative practices, Sunny Sunshine Store --- ### [5 School Counseling Activities Using a Plain Sheet of Paper](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-ways-to-use-a-plain-sheet-of-paper/) **Published:** November 15, 2017 **Author:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials **Content:** Let’s face it, kids are used to having worksheets and templates and preprinted note pages, but sometimes I don’t have time to gather those fancy materials. In my office, I always have plain copy paper and it is an integral part of my counseling program. Here are 5 school counseling activities where I turn that plain sheet of paper into a counselor’s best friend. # **1, 2, 3 Blast Away Anxiety** When I have students who come to my office feeling anxious, we do three things. We start by making **1** list of everything that is bothering them. After they made their list, I have them circle the top **2** things that are bothering them. We then break those two things down into **3** specific things. It goes something like this: ## Friends 1. Want to spend more time with them. 2. Need to lose those that aren’t really my friend. 3. I need to be treated equally as well as I treat others. ## Family 1. Tell my sister to stop wearing my clothes. 2. Try talking to my mom about what is bothering me. 3. Spend less time in my room. [![Help students name their worries specifically and then find ways to let it go.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/123-blast-anxiety-away-300x224.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-ways-to-use-a-plain-sheet-of-paper/123-blast-anxiety-away/) [![Help students name their worries specifically and then find ways to let it go.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/123-Blast-away-2-288x300.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-ways-to-use-a-plain-sheet-of-paper/123-blast-away-2/) Next, we talk about what we can control, what we can’t control, and how to let stress go. When we are done, we make our papers into airplanes and send them soaring across the room. **1, 2, 3, blast the anxiety** right into the trash. # **Let’s Talk About Courage** ![school counseling activities using plain paper](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Talking-about-courage-2-225x300.png)Grab a book too! To talk to students about courage, I show them a sheet of paper and a book. I ask them if there is any way that the paper can hold up the book if they use only one hand to hold the paper. The students will try different ways, but many times, will miss the very simple solution—simply roll the paper into a tube, hold it in your hand and place the book on top. We then talk about how the paper is flimsy and weak if we keep it in its original state, but if we make it into a tube it becomes stronger and can hold up under pressure. We then talk about how in times of pressure we have choices to make, and use the paper as an analogy of a person under pressure. # **Seeing the Big Picture** I ask students to draw timelines a lot. A sheet of paper is the perfect way for students to reconstruct their past few hours, days, years, or even predict future events. ![school counseling activities with plain paper](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/timeline-1-1024x768.png) When counseling individuals, I may ask them to draw me a timeline of how their day started looking like a scene from ***Alexander’s Horrible, Terrible, No Good, Very Bad Day***. It’s helpful to see the progression of when feelings dropped or lifted and to use this as a guide of how can we cope when things get bad. We process the events and think of coping strategies for the next time. I also use timelines in an 8th grade lesson called [How Long is a Lifetime](http://www.themiddleschoolcounselor.com/2016/01/goal-setting-for-your-future-8th-grade.html)? Students draw a representation of a timeline of their life and I ask them t0 think about how they can live the life they want with a career they choose. We look at retirement age, travel, family, schooling, and our [values](http://www.themiddleschoolcounselor.com/2017/01/starting-to-think-about-high-school.html). Lastly, I use timelines to help to understand family dynamics when talking to students about [divorce, separation or family issues](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kids-Understanding-Divorce-Or-Separation-Group-Counseling-Program-3034534). It can really help as a visual to understand when different family events took place. [![kids understanding divorce and separation](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/KUDOS.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kids-Understanding-Divorce-Or-Separation-Group-Counseling-Program-3034534?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20Paper) # **Art Therapy on the Fly** A sheet of paper is beautiful blank canvas. With a few simple instructions, students can turn it into a work of art. From talking about seeing the hidden beauty in ourselves, to how we are so special, to drawing our families, or how we are feeling, a sheet of paper has magical powers. Students are always proud of their work and can’t wait to show others what they have created. ![turning scribbles into art. school counseling activities with plain paper](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Art-therapy.png) In one activity, students pick one marker, hold it in the air above their paper and close their eyes. Once their eyes are closed, I will tell them to start to scribble. After about 10 seconds I will ask them to stop. I then ask them to open their eyes, and there is typically a lot of giggling when they see their *creations*. I’ll then ask them to turn their scribble into a picture. After they are done, we’ll talk about our inner beauty and the talents we have inside of us. # **Did Someone Say Snowball Fight?** This is a great get-to-know-you activity. Simply give every student a sheet of paper and ask them to write 3 things about themselves on it without writing their name. When they are done, ask them to crumple up the paper into a ball. When all the students are done, ask them to have snowball fight by picking up a snowball and throwing it at someone around the room. After the snowballs have been thoroughly mixed, ask the students to all pick one, open it up and read out loud the 3 things written inside. Then have the students try to guess who wrote it. ![three things snowball fight. school counseling activities with plain white paper.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/snowball.png) You can modify this game for small groups. Students share two coping skills they would use the next time they felt angry, three things they are looking for in college, or a way they will study for their next test. The possibilities for this simple game are endless. **I hope that you can use these ideas in your counseling program, and if you have any ideas for how to use a sheet of paper, I’d love to hear them!** Check out our [other counseling activities](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/craftivities/) using common materials. ![5 ways to use plain paper in school counseling. simple counseling activities using plain paper makes it simple to work with students quickly.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Pin-5-Ways-1.jpg) **Categories:** Counsel It Yourself (CIY), Quick Activities **Tags:** counseling activities --- ### [Conversation: How do you handle requests for assistance around the holidays?](https://confidentcounselors.com/holiday_assistance_requests/) **Published:** December 1, 2017 **Author:** Little Miss Counselor, The Counseling Teacher Brandy and School Counseling Confessions **Content:** ## Develop Systems and Work with Others ![Little Miss Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/13814598_984575921664069_217302344_n-300x268.jpg)Triaging requests for assistance helps me from feeling overwhelmed by the high number of Christmas assistance referrals that I receive each year. First, I start off by making a spreadsheet with the requests. Whether I have resources for Christmas or if the deadlines have passed and those resources are no longer available, I inform parents that I have added their name to my waiting list. Some years I may have someone contact me mid-December wanting to sponsor a family. An important thing to consider is the families that do not ask for help. This is why I do not operate on a first come, first serve basis. When it comes to helping families, one thing I and other school counselors in my district experience are the same families requesting help each year. While I give out a list of community agencies for each family that makes a request, I prefer to help different families each year and spread out Christmas assistance resources as much as possible. [– Little Miss Counselor ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/School-Counseling-Confessions.jpg)Meeting with the other social worker, school psychologist and nurse in your building can help alleviate the overwhelming requests you may get during the holidays for assistance. In our meetings we list our students who have a parent(s) that is deployed, incarcerated, homeless, home fire, etc. and split up the list to make sure that every student’s family was contacted. Our school team works closely with the police and fire departments’ local holiday toy drives to make sure that the same families were not getting resources from every organization. [– Vanessa from School Counseling Confessions](http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/school-counseling-confessions) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/round-logo-solid-black-300x300.jpg)First, we send out an email to teachers asking if they have any students who may have a financial need. Depending on the number of requests, we reach out to our school social worker with our specific needs for that school year. She has so many contacts in the community and is usually up-to-date on the latest resources available. She has helped us with new shoes, coats, and donated toys in the past. If you have a school social worker, be sure to collaborate with them. – [The Counseling Teacher, Brandy](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson) ![handling requests for assistance around the holidays.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/17.png) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Parents, Your Program **Tags:** CC tips, holidays, Little Miss Counselor, School Counseling Confessions, The Counseling Teacher Brandy --- ### [School Counselors and Career Development](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselors-career-development/) **Published:** November 29, 2017 **Author:** The DIY Counselor **Content:** Kids get excited about discussing future plans. Talking about what they want to be is very motivating and helps students see real world connections. If you’re like me, there are so many career development resources available, it can be overwhelming. I want to engage students in career development activities that are fun, interactive, and purposeful. How do I know what to teach? What do my students need? Where do I start? # **Career Assessments** A great place to begin is giving your students a needs assessment. Either through a conversation, worksheet, or online assessment, you can hear students’ perceptions about their career development needs. I am in a middle school, so I ask questions about high school class selection, graduation requirements, post-secondary plans, and career options to identify what students feel they need the most help with. Future planning is a high-interest category for my students every year. # **Technology Tools for Students** ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/dreamstime_xs_39521718.jpg) Once you have an idea of what students need, look for interactive ways to engage students in learning about careers. There are some great online tools available for K-12 career development. [Smart Futures](https://www.smartfutures.org/) is a free resource targeted for high school and beyond and can be accessed by requesting a code for students to use. Some free resources that do not require student log in are [Education Planner](http://www.educationplanner.org/), [College and Career Life Planning](http://www.collegecareerlifeplanning.com/), the [Department of Labor K-12](https://www.bls.gov/k12/), and O-net’s [My Next Move](https://www.mynextmove.org/). These sites provide interactive assessments, games, and activities to promote career development. [Career Cruising](https://public.careercruising.com/en/our-solutions/k-12/), [Naviance](https://www.naviance.com/), and [Kuder](https://www.kuder.com/k-20-education/education-providers/k-12/) provide programs for elementary through high school and beyond, but require purchase. My state pays for Kuder for every student in a public school. Check with people at the district level to find out if this is an option for you. # **Career Development Resources for Counselors** Classroom and small group activities can also enhance your career development program. There are free resources available for counselors. The [College Board Professionals Page](https://professionals.collegeboard.org/guidance/counseling/counselor-resources) has a very thorough list of resources for all levels. Several states have developed college and career readiness curriculums that are available online. Check your state education website. # **College and Career EXPO** After students have explored careers, a hands-on experience is a great way to help students see real-world examples. There are many ways to facilitate this using guest speakers, lunch bunch presentations, or a school-wide event such as a career fair. Whatever you decide to do, planning is essential in hosting any of these events. ## Click to check out my [Career Development Bundle](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/CAREER-DEVELOPMENT-BUNDLE-2930833) for some helpful activities to promote career development in your counseling program. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Slide1-1-300x300.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/CAREER-DEVELOPMENT-BUNDLE-2930833?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Career%20Development%20112017) ![Career Development and school counselors. Use state and local resources that are free to build a comprehensive career development program.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/2-1.jpg) ![Career Development and school counselors. Use state and local resources that are free to build a comprehensive career development program.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/3.jpg) ![Career Development and school counselors. Use state and local resources that are free to build a comprehensive career development program.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/1-1.jpg) **Categories:** Career Development, Your Program **Tags:** career development --- ### [5 School Counseling Activities Using String](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-activities-using-string/) **Published:** December 4, 2017 **Author:** EduKate & Inspire **Content:** Creating hands-on counseling lessons can be easy and inexpensive. You can often find inspiration by looking through your junk drawers or craft boxes! String is one craft supply that many people have sitting around and it can easily be incorporated into hands-on lessons for school counseling. String is a great tactile tool that is inexpensive and comes in many colors, textures, and types. Check out 5 school counseling activities using string. # 5 School Counseling Activities Using String ## 1) Pom-Pom Calming Critter ### Type of String Needed: Yarn ![Pom Pom Calming Critter](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/IMG_0721-1024x1024.png) Calming Critters are an adorable project to create with students who are working on coping skills, anxiety, or anger management. They also are a fun culminating project for a small group. There are many yarn pom-pom tutorials online, so look around for what will work best for the age of your students. Some tutorials involve wrapping the yarn around your fingers (great for coordinated students!) while other tutorials involve wrapping the yarn around a simple piece of cardboard. You can even buy a [pom-pom maker](http://amzn.to/2ivkCQF) if you want to get fancy! [Here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDahuw179K8) is a great video that shows 4 different ways to make a pom-pom. I like to offer students a variety of yarn colors and textures. [Variegated yarn](http://amzn.to/2zZEk1Z) is usually a student favorite because they end up with a multi-colored critter. As seen in the video linked above, a simple way for students to create their pom-pom is to wrap the yarn around a fork (tip: use a salad fork for a larger pom-pom). After following the steps in the video above, fluff the yarn into a circular shape and give the critter a haircut if you’d like. You can use a variety of craft supplies to decorate the critters. Students can create feet, eyes, mouths, antennae, or arms using felt, tiny pom-poms, pipe cleaners, or googly eyes. Depending on what supplies you use, you can use hot glue or felt glue to help students glue on the pieces. When the **Calming Critter** is finished, you can teach students to use it in a variety of ways! - **Whisper your worries to the critter** - **Hold him when you are worried** - **Put him by your bed at night to protect you from scary dreams** - **Talk to your critter when you feel angry** Your students will adore having a little Calming Critter to help them cope! ## 2) Beaded Fidget Tool ### Type of String Needed: Satin Cord ![5 ways to use string in school counseling and other school counseling craftivities](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/beads-3.png) Looking for some fidgets for students that won’t drive everyone else crazy? You can make inexpensive fidgets out of string and beads that your students (and teachers!) will love. These beaded fidget tools are tactile, quiet, and fun to make. If you are working with older students this would be a great project to incorporate into a small group. You can also have a little DIY session with your colleagues to create a stash of them to give to students. For this project, you will need [satin cord](http://amzn.to/2z1Ot9y) because its smooth texture allows the beads easily slide back and forth. Watch this [DIY video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d84-If4WOsM) for easy steps to create the fidget. Experiment with different types of beads for a variety of sensory experiences. You can use plastic pony beads, chunky wooden beads, or even alphabet beads to spell out a student’s name or a motivational phrase. I love how they used the word “breathe” in the video. Once you have mastered the steps of looping the beads on the string, you can get creative with the type of fidget you make. Try making keychains for students to hang on their backpacks. You can even use this technique to create a fidget bracelet. Whatever you create, your students will love fidgeting with this tool! ## 3) Invisible String Lesson ### Type of String Needed: Clear Stretchy String ![The Invisible String Project](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/IMG_0722-300x300.png) [The Invisible String](http://amzn.to/2idaH1P) is a must-have book for counselors. It is perfect for students experiencing any type of separation, such as death, divorce, incarceration, deployment, or separation anxiety. The book description states: > **People who love each other are always connected by a very special string, made of love. Even though you can’t see it with your eyes, you can feel it deep in your heart, and know that you are always connected to the ones you love.** To help illustrate the concept of the invisible string, help students create invisible string bracelets out of [clear string](http://amzn.to/2hLPkbn) and [plastic heart buttons](http://amzn.to/2BkuF33) or [heart beads](http://amzn.to/2AcTMaG). After reading the story, ask students who they believe their invisible string is connected to. For each person (or pet) they list, allow students to choose a bead to represent the connection and string it onto the bracelet. When the bracelet is complete, ask students to explain the connections by asking questions such as: - ***Who does each bead represent?*** - ***Which connection is the strongest? Weakest?*** - ***Is there someone you wish you had a stronger connect with?*** - ***How can you make a connection stronger?*** - ***Is there anyone missing from your bracelet that you wish you had a connection with?*** ## 4) Worry Brain ### Type of String Needed: Yarn ![Worry Brain Yarn Activity](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/IMG_0727-300x300.png) I first read out this idea over on [Kim’s Counseling Corner](https://kimscounselingcorner.wordpress.com/2012/07/08/another-step-in-all-tied-up-with-worry/) and it has become one of my favorite projects to use with worried or anxious students. Here are the steps I use: 1. **Ask the child to make a list of everything he or she is worried about.** 2. **Ask the child to circle their 5 biggest worries.** 3. **Rank the worries in order from largest to smallest.** 4. **Starting with the largest worry, ask the child to show how large the worry is by showing the size with a piece of yarn.** 5. **Write the worry on a sticker (white mailing address labels work well) or piece of masking tape and use it to secure the piece of yarn onto a silhouette of a face in the area of the brain.** 6. **Continue this process with the 4 other worries, each piece of yarn getting a bit smaller than the first.** 7. **When the 5 pieces of yarn are secure, hold up the face as a visual and let the yarn drop down. This is a great way to show the child a visual representation of the size of each worry.** 8. **Scrunch the yarn back up into the “brain” and talk about how the worries can fill up the child’s mind, which makes it hard to focus.** 9. **Pull out each worry from the “brain” and talk about coping skills that can help the worry feel smaller.** 10. **During additional sessions, have the child trim the worries as they begin to feel smaller.** This project is a wonderful way to not only help students visualize the size of their worries, but also visualize the worries getting smaller and smaller. ## 5) Growth Mindset Activity: Tie a Knot in a String Challenge ### Type of String Needed: Yarn ![Growth Mindset Knot Challenge](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/pexels-photo-612778-300x206.jpg) This activity is a fun and simple challenge to incorporate into a growth mindset lesson. To begin, give each student a piece of yarn about 1.5 feet long. Tell students that they must hold onto the yarn at all times, keeping one end of the yarn in each hand. Without letting go, students must tie a knot in the center of the yarn! Watch students bend and twist their bodies, trying to tie a knot in the yarn. Watch out–students will get sneaky and try to slip the yarn out of their fingers to tie the knot! Ask students to prove their answers to you to see if they successfully completed the challenge. Want to see the solution? Here’s a how-to [video](http://corneroncharacter.blogspot.com/2013/05/why-knot.html) from the lovely Barbara Gruener with the solution to the challenge! As a bonus, head to my [Growth Mindset Resource Round-Up](http://bit.ly/EduKateMindset) post to read about one more exciting challenge involving yarn, rubber bands, and plastic cups. ## Looking for other school counseling activities? Visit the [Counseling Craftivities](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/craftivities/) page on our site to read about using everyday materials for hands-on counseling activities. ### Pin it to save for later! ![School Counseling Activities using string to target growth mindset, anxiety, fidgeting, trauma, and coping skills](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/5-Ways-to-Use-String-in-School-Counseling-Pin-683x1024.jpg) **Categories:** Counsel It Yourself (CIY), Quick Activities **Tags:** counseling activities --- ### [Ready, Set, Second Semester: Make a Plan](https://confidentcounselors.com/plan-school-counseling-services/) **Published:** December 6, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Up **Content:** It’s time to get ready for 2nd semester! Wait, you say, the 1st semester isn’t even over yet?! Exactly! In order to hit the ground running after winter break, it’s time to crunch some data and create a plan for your 2nd semester so that you are supporting the right students in the right way. Planning school counseling services does not have to be a daunting task. Prioritizing using your data will make it more straightforward. # **Where to Start** If it’s one of those years and you didn’t [make a plan](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/comprehensive-counseling-like-a-boss) or your plan is so far off track you need to start from scratch, I got ya. Here are some places to start to determine which students to prioritize: ## *Students with less than 90% attendance in the 1st semester*: Research shows that 90% attendance is crucial for staying on track. Are 80% of your students at school at least 90% of the time? In my state, we go to school 180 days, so students with 18 or more absences in a year are not in attendance 90%. For the 1st semester, that translates to 9 absences. If more than 20% of my students are absent 9 or more days in the 1st semester, I know that I need a core plan. Perhaps we want to do a schoolwide push for attendance or teach lessons on the importance of coming to school. If my list of students with 9 or more absences is less than 20% of my school, then I can work with students in groups or individually. ## *Students with failing grades end of the 1st semester:* Pull a list of students who are failing either Math or ELA at the end of 1st semester. Take some time to consult with grade level PLCs to discuss what students are missing and how you might help. In elementary, I find it best to start with 3rd – 5th graders because they are more developmentally ready to [take control over their own learning](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/academic-achievement-groups). In K-2, you can consult with teachers to see what other factors may be impeding this child’s success. For secondary, any student failing a core class at the end of a semester is at-risk of failing or dropping out and should be at the top of your list for intervention. ## *Students with a high number of office referrals:* What that number is will depend on your school. Discuss with your administration or other student services staff members what the response will be for students who are frequent flyers to the office. This group of students usually benefits from a [combination of activities](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/asca-national-model-program-goals) including individual counseling, parent communication, and behavior intervention strategies. # **Follow Your Plan** Whether you created a plan at the beginning of the year or are just starting now, end of the semester is a great time to check in on what students need support and to make sure that a plan is in place and actually happening. If we don’t make a plan, we fall prey to “random acts of guidance,” responding to the loudest problem rather than proactively working with students that need the most help at that moment. This is dangerous because not only might you be wasting time (you don’t have!) but students may miss out on what they need. Once you have a list of students and an idea of what you need, you know what to do. Now it’s time to [manage your data](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/managing-your-data-without-losing-your-mind) without losing your mind. ![Create a plan for second semester so that your counseling program is ready to go.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Ready-Set....-pin.jpg) **Categories:** Counselor Role, Your Program **Tags:** school counseling program, setting goals --- ### [School Counseling Professional Goals for 2018](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-professional-goals/) **Published:** December 7, 2017 **Author:** School Counseling Confessions **Content:** Get Ready for 2018! Maybe some of you wish 2017 could last a little bit longer and others are thankful that 2018 is almost here. Either way, the pressures of starting something new has hit, so let me ask you – what are your school counseling professional goals for 2018? # Professional Goals for a New Year I do not want to pressure you nor do I want to add any stress to your life. So if your goal this year is to sit and drink margaritas on a beach, go for it. However, if you are not as fortunate and fall victim to the constant question when you head back to work: *“What’s your New Year’s Resolution?”,* the pressure to choose something is real. If you have no idea what your school counseling professional goal is going to be, let me help. # Professional Development Check out some professional development opportunities on a topic that has always interested you. What do YOU want to learn about? What interests YOU professionally? That’s what I love about professional development, it is a glimpse of a topic that you may want to learn more about in the future. I feel like all my 2017 PD’s have been about data, data, data. So for 2018, I am going with something new. I moved to South Carolina and live near Fort Jackson Army Base. The district where I work is full of children that have a parent either active in the military or working for a government agency. I need to know more about my students and all I can about military family life. There are tons of opportunities for professional development but as you know not all professional development is created equal. Make sure you are getting the most bang for your buck (and time). Here are some of my favorites to check out. Costs can vary depending on the organization (FREE – $100+) ## **Professional Development for School Counselors** [Harvard University Professional Development Educator Series](https://www.gse.harvard.edu/ppe/professional-development-hgse) [Association for Play Therapy ](http://www.a4pt.org/?page=TrainingDirectory) [Center For Safe Schools](http://www.safeschools.info/bullying-prevention/professional-development) [Attendance Works](http://awareness.attendanceworks.org/resources/webinars/) [Military Child Education Coalition ](http://www.militarychild.org/) # Specialized Professional Development For a little more of a challenge, become a specialist in a counseling topic that is of interest to you. Try the [ASCA U Specialist Training](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/school-counselors-members/professional-development/asca-u). There are currently 12 topics to choose from, such as bullying prevention, or grief and loss. This is more intensive than a 2-day seminar. This option consists of readings, webinars, and quizzes. If you are a member of ASCA, the cost is only $99 and the designations are valid for 5 years. This is on my list for 2019 – yes that’s right 2019 – I need to finish up the next one first. # National Board Certification in School Counseling Maybe you are thinking that this is the year that I am going to push myself to the next level of learning and data collection. Also, you have this desire to really focus on school counseling and all that it entails. If this sounds like what you want for 2018, you need seriously consider taking your [National Boards in School Counseling](http://www.nbpts.org/wp-content/uploads/ECYA-SC.pdf). Click [here](http://www.nbpts.org/in-your-state/) to find out if your state gives a monetary stipend or who you can contact to get more information in your state. Some states may give YOU money for the NBPTS components as well. When I first started this journey, I was working in Rhode Island and the State Department of Education paid for one of my components. There are four total components, but any money saved is worth it to me. If you are wondering about how you can earn graduate credits and need someone to help you stay focused and pace yourself, consider registering for the [Washington State University School Counseling NBPTS Program](https://education.wsu.edu/teacherresources/nationalboard/school-counseling-national-board-certification/). This is the only program in the country and it doesn’t matter where you live because it is a live webinar. I am currently involved in this program and cannot say enough positive words to express how the Program Developer and Facilitator, Jane Oczkewicz, motivates and guides everyone in the class to work hard and stay on task with our homework. Yes, that is right, you will have homework. The cost of the WSU program is $200 a component. The NBPTS has a yearly fee of $75, plus $450 a component. You have three years to complete all four components so you can spread out the financial obligation. # Get your License as a Clinical Therapist Get your license to become a clinical therapist. This is most intensive option and expensive if you need to take additional courses. Many master’s in school counseling programs do not give you all the classes that are needed so there may be some classes you have to take in addition to the 150 internship hours. You can access a state by state licensing guide by clicking [here](https://counselor-license.com/). You can’t go wrong with any of these options. The hardest part is choosing what is best for you and your family. Consider all the options for each and do lots of research before you commit, especially if money is involved. **Good luck on your journey and keep me posted!** ![Meet your school counseling professional goals by considering workshops, specialist training, national board certification, or clinical licensure.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/2.png) ![Meet your school counseling professional goals by considering workshops, specialist training, national board certification, or clinical licensure.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/1.png) **Categories:** Your Program **Tags:** school counseling program, setting goals --- ### [Listening with my Heart: Book Review and Positive Self Talk Activity](https://confidentcounselors.com/book-review-listening-heart/) **Published:** December 11, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Keri **Content:** [Gabi Garcia](https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&ei=HLsQWtKGBIHMmQHW97CQDg&q=gabigarciabooks&oq=gabigarciabooks&gs_l=psy-ab.3...11913.12247.0.12337.5.4.0.0.0.0.0.0..0.0....0...1.1.64.psy-ab..5.0.0....0.vJokPT2r7UA), author of [*Listening to My Body*](http://amzn.to/2koBHj0), just published another book that is a great addition to any counselor’s shelf! I recently had the opportunity to do a book review of her newest title. It is truly a wonderful book for exploring self-compassion and positive self talk with elementary school students! # Book Review [*Listening with my Heart*](http://amzn.to/2jV4VCq) is a heart-warming story about Esperanza, a girl who is great at showing kindness to others but sometimes isn’t so kind to herself. She is quick to take in a lonely cat and befriend a new student, but she has critical self talk for herself when she misses a big goal or makes a mistake at school. Esperanza learns that it while it’s important to be kind to others, it’s equally important to be kind to herself! The author expertly manages to describe physiological experiences associated with emotions and provide concrete ways to show kindness to others while maintaining a focus on self-compassion. The examples she uses of experiences in sports, academics, and theater are relatable to a multitude of students. This is a great text to use with students who demonstrate perfectionist behaviors and negative self talk. If you have students who need to learn to cut themselves some slack and understand that mistakes are a normal part of life, this text will be a great addition to your counseling bookshelf! # ![Book review of Gabi Garcia's book, Listening with my Heart and free printable activity to analyze statements for negative or positive self talk](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/girls-300x167.png) # Positive Self Talk Activity Gabi Garcia includes several activities to do with your students after reading *Listening with my Heart*, and you’ll find one additional activity below. To give students a chance to explore positive self talk, [download this free activity](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Listening-with-my-Heart-Book-Companion-Activity-Positive-Self-Talk-Compassion-3505657). Students create pockets with a happy heart and a sad heart. Then, students practice listening with their hearts. They will read statements and pay attention to how their hearts feel as they read the words. Their hearts will help them to decide if the statement is something that would be kind to say to a friend or not kind and sort the statements into the appropriate pockets. Explain that statements that aren’t kind enough to say to a friend are not kind enough to say to ourselves! Like Garcia’s book teaches: we should treat ourselves like friends! From this activity, students can begin to identify negative self talk patterns they currently have. The positive self talk statements included will help students begin to combat the negative pattern. Blank rectangles are also included for students to create their own positive self talk statements as they begin to treat themselves like friends! ![Book review of Gabi Garcia's book, Listening with my Heart and free printable activity to analyze statements for negative or positive self talk](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/1-2-300x167.png) ## Discussion Questions - **Review the statements that are too unkind to say to a friend. How many of these statements have you said to yourself?** - **What feelings do you have when you say these things to yourself?** - **How can viewing yourself as a friend change the way you talk to and about yourself?** - **What is one way you will show yourself compassion today?** - **Name 3 reasons you deserve self-compassion.** You can grab Gabi Garcia’s book, [*Listening with my Heart*, on Amazon](http://amzn.to/2jV4VCq). For more great titles for your counseling bookshelf, check out these [Confident Counselors’ favorite titles](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/07/24/15-must-have-books-elementary-school-counselors/)! ![Book review of Gabi Garcia's book, Listening with my Heart and free printable activity to analyze statements for negative or positive self talk](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Positive-selF-talk.png) SaveSave SaveSave **Categories:** Counseling **Tags:** book recommendations, counseling activities, positive thinking --- ### [What is Your Go To Self Care Activity?](https://confidentcounselors.com/favorite-self-care-activity/) **Published:** December 8, 2017 **Author:** Counselor Keri, The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store and EduKate & Inspire and 2 more **Content:** You know you should be incorporating self-care. You know you can’t pour from an empty cup. Sometimes it just takes hearing from others who get it. So Confident Counselors, what is your go to self care activity? \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Counselor-Keri-150x150.png)My two favorite self care activities are baking and napping. I love to bake for a couple of reasons. I am a hands-on person, so using my hands to make something is really gratifying for me. I also love that I can make a large batch of something that I can then share with a neighbor or coworker to build relationships. Napping is so restorative for me too; I tend to let sleep suffer when I have a lot on my plate and am always reminded of the healing powers of sleep! **– Keri from [Counselor Keri ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store.jpg)Self-care is something that I need to work on. As many of us do, I often put other’s needs before my own. Things I do to relax vary from writing to getting a manicure to baking or taking photographs of nature. Paying it forward has also become a mode of self-care for me. A few times a year, when I treat myself to a purchase at Starbucks, I like to buy an extra something for the person behind me. Not only am I treating myself, but someone else too. **– [The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-150x150.png)Counseling is a very analytic profession–between the communication, listening, and problem solving, our minds often need a break from thinking! One of my favorite self-care activities is painting because it allows my mind to think creatively. I love using watercolor or acrylic paint to create abstract designs or florals. Another great escape that I have recently found is Pure Barre. It’s a combination of ballet and pilates that is super challenging and allows my mind to focus on small, isometric movements to shape my body. Wondering how you can make more time in your life for self-care? Read my post about [prioritizing your day](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/18/self-care-for-school-counselors-how-to-prioritize-your-day/) to make more time for self-care. **– Kate from** **[EduKate and Inspire](http://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg)My favorite self-care activity is a long hot bubble bath. I wrap up what I need to do for the day, put the baby to bed and start to fill the tub. I like to make myself a bowl of strawberries to snack on, climb in the tub and let the water wash my worries away. It is so calming to me and allows me private time to think and create a plan of action for the following days. In addition to baths, I love to go to the gym after a long hard day. I like to lift heavy weights and leave all my stresses in the gym when I leave. I love the gym, but I have to admit that baths are definitely more fun. **[– Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/round-logo-solid-black.jpg)I really enjoy being outside with my animals. Nature is one of the easiest ways to recharge. We often take for granted the powerful benefits of the great outdoors and our furry friends. Research shows that pets play an important role in lowering stress levels. Additionally, vitamin D from the sun is essential for physical and mental health. I try to leave my phone in the house so that I’m not tempted to check my notifications. It’s essential to unplug from social media for a period of time each day. If you aren’t able to go outside that often, you can open the curtains, put down the phone, pet your fur babies and look outside more! **[– The Counseling Teacher, Brandy](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson)** **What are your favorite self care activities?** ## Previous Self Care Posts - **[Self Care for Real Life](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/11/27/fill-cup-self-care-real-life/) from Counselor Up** - **[Prioritizing your Day for Self Care](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/18/self-care-for-school-counselors-how-to-prioritize-your-day/) from EduKate & Inspire** - **[Self Care Conversation](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/25/conversations-self-care/)** ![favorite self-care activities for school counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/18-1.png) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Self Care **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Keri, EduKate & Inspire, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, self care, Sunny Sunshine Store, The Counseling Teacher Brandy --- ### [Counselor Conversations: Best gift you ever got from a student?](https://confidentcounselors.com/best-gift/) **Published:** December 15, 2017 **Author:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials and Counselor Chelsey **Content:** My guess is that it isn’t one from the Yankee Candle collection in your garage. Often, the best gifts from students are ones you can’t hold. <3 \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg)The best gift I’ve ever received from a student was actually from the grandmother of my student after he graduated from college. It was a phone call telling me that this student’s artwork was published in a book, and she had to let me know. They never thought he was ever going to graduate high school, let alone college, and no one had ever told him his art was good. They credit his success on my talks with him. Really, it was his success. I’m just proud they shared it with me. [**– Carol Miller – The Middle School Counselor** ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![CounselorChelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/CounselorChesleyRound-150x150.png)The best give I have ever received from a student came from a 12 year old boy I had been working with. We were working on anger and conflict resolution, specifically in relation to getting along with his brother. After some ups and downs, we started to see a lot of positive change – in the student’s behavior, as well as in his relationship with his brother. He then brought me cookies, with the SWEETEST note. Parts of it said that he didn’t know how mature and responsible he would be without my help and that he loves that he can play with his brother and not fight. It was such a sweet, tangible example of the difference that we can make in the lives of our students and their families! **– [CounselorChelsey](http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/CounselorChelsey)** ![confident counselors conversations: what is the best gift you ever received from a student?](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/19.png) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Counselor Role **Tags:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials, CC tips, Counselor Chelsey, holidays --- ### [Conversations: How do you use goal setting in counseling?](https://confidentcounselors.com/conversations-goal-setting-counseling/) **Published:** January 5, 2018 **Author:** The Counseling Teacher Brandy and Counselor Up **Content:** It is important that students make social-emotional progress and our lessons and counseling sessions are supposed to help them get there. Without clear goals, it can be difficult to tell if that is happening. Brandy and Rebecca use student-friendly materials and approach goal setting in a direct manner. The new year is a great time to reset the clock and incorporate goal setting at any age level. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] # Middle School: Bring on the SMART Goals ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/round-logo-solid-black-150x150.jpg)In January, I teach an hour lesson on SMART goals with my middle school students. For students who already have a goal, the SMART goal format helps them fine-tune and create specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely goals. They also see the benefits of having long and short-term goals to stay on track for a successful future. I start with this quote from Terence McKenna, **“If you don’t have a plan, you become part of somebody else’s plan.”** They create a [SMART Goals Flipbook](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/SMART-Goals-Flip-Book-3002057?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Goal%20Setting%20SMART%20Goal%20Flip%20Book) that they can take home as a reminder of our lesson. – [Counseling Teacher Brandy](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson) [![SMART Goals flip book to help students set goals that will work.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/SMART-Goals-Flip-Book.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/SMART-Goals-Flip-Book-3002057?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Goal%20Setting%20SMART%20Goal%20Flip%20Book) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] # Elementary: Step by Step ![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)I love to help students set a [Goal Like a Pro](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Character-Ed-Lessons-Self-Discipline-and-Goal-Setting-K-5-Lesson-Pack-2249256?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Goal%20Mountain) through the character trait of Self Discipline. We stairstep up in our understanding of goals at a developmental level. In K-1, students learn what a goal is and how to create a concrete goal. Students in 2-3 identify the steps to reach a larger goal to practice breaking down a goal to achievable action steps. In grades 4-5, Students learn about SMART goals and extend the concept of action steps. I have learned through the years that students in elementary do not know how to set goals and it can make a huge difference in their growth mindset! – Rebecca from [CounselorUp](http://www.counselorup.com) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Goal-Mountain-CounselorUp.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Character-Ed-Lessons-Self-Discipline-and-Goal-Setting-K-5-Lesson-Pack-2249256?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Goal%20Mountain) ## Other Posts on Goal Setting [Why You Should Be Using SMART Goals in Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/21/smart-goals-counseling/) [Tips for Setting Goals with Students](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/01/03/tips-setting-goals-students/) **Categories:** Counseling, Counselor Chats **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Up, setting goals, The Counseling Teacher Brandy --- ### [Weird! Book Series: Three Stories, Three Points of View](https://confidentcounselors.com/weird-book-series/) **Published:** January 8, 2018 **Author:** Pawsitive School Counselor **Content:** A counselor friend of mine recommended the [Weird!](http://theweirdseries.com/) book series by Erin Frankel to me and I am so glad she did. I could go on and on and on about this series but the testimony really comes from my students. Each month I do a book giveaway for great behavior. After reading aloud the second book in the series, one of my boys asked me if I could please buy the books for the next giveaway. Even though he only has a one in nine hundred chance of winning, he was so into them that the odds didn’t matter! And he’s not the only one. Even my most hesitant and challenging students are totally into these books. Why? I have my theories. **First**, the illustrations by Paula Heaphy are youthful yet mature. **Second**, the topic is totally relevant to every student. **Third**, they are so well written. Author Erin Frankel, who is also an educator, makes these books so relatable. **Lastly**, the series makes you want more. The books are easy to read, catchy, and intriguing. Like a great movie, you can’t wait for the sequel and feel sadness when the trilogy ends. # About the Weird! Book Series The Weird! book series is a three-part series that focuses on bullying. The first book, [**Weird**](http://amzn.to/2CPqBbW)**!** is told from the point of view of the target. > **Side note: I think it’s very important to use the term target and not victim. Anyone can be a target, but not everyone has to be a victim.** The second book **[Dare!](http://amzn.to/2CmQvDe)** is told from the perspective of the bystander or the person witnessing the bullying. To wrap up the series, you get to hear from the bully’s side in [**Tough!**](http://amzn.to/2EOkAgp). The books take place in a school setting. At some point, you can expect that your own students will be a target of bullying, a bystander to bullying, or the bully themselves. As a School Counselor, I use these books in my classroom lessons. Teachers can use them in their classroom when talking about respect, during a class meeting, or as a book/author study. # Take Your Time Don’t try to read these books in one sitting. I see my students once a month so it’s taken us three months to get through the series. This really keeps them on the edge of their seats. Plan to spread the books over a three-day, three-week, or three-month time frame. Don’t overwhelm your students – let it sink it, settle, and stew. I really believe that if you let the students marinate with the books it allows them to take their thoughts to a deeper level. # Activities for the Weird! Book Series When planning to use these books there’s so much you can do. Here’s what worked for my students: ## Introduce the Book First, I showed the students the cover of all three books and asked them to make observations about each. I then read the back cover and we discussed how each book was told from a different perspective. This lead to a short discussion on point of view which included them making educated guesses on which book was told from what point of view. ## Reading the Story Heads up – set aside a chunk of time to read these books. My classes are forty-five minutes long and they used every second of that time. Even though these picture books are short, the students love making observations and connections between the stories. I started with **three simple prompts**: 1. **“What do you notice about this page?” or “What did you notice about the illustrations?”** 2. **“What connections can you make to the story?”** 3. **“Tell me what you think will happen next,” or “Make a prediction about what’s going to happen.”** The discussion was really student-led from there. Everyone, and I mean everyone, had something they wanted to point out whether it was a story (with names changed to protect the innocent), or a guess about what would happen to the character. I didn’t write down all of the discussions and where they went, but I can tell you that each class really let it morph to where they wanted or needed the conversation to go. ## Writing Reflection To help reflect on the story, I had each of the students respond by completing a Weird Series brochure I created. There is a section for students to make observations before reading the series, and then reflections after the series is complete. There is also a section for each book. I have students write or draw their answers independently, then share as a small group, and if time allows as a whole class. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_6827-e1515009749489.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/weird-book-series/img_6827/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_6828-1-e1515009722783.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/weird-book-series/img_6828-2/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/IMG_6830-e1515009684515.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/weird-book-series/img_6830/) ## Art Activity ![Art Activity to go along with the Weird! Book Series](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/picture-2.png) After reading Weird! and Tough!, I asked my students to take a piece of construction paper and fold it in half. On one side they had to draw a representation of the main character from each book. I kept the prompt vague and I’m glad I did! The results were amazing. Some drew the girls, others used the planets because it aligned with their current social studies unit, and some even drew animals. ![Art activity for Weird! Book Series](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Picture1.png)Example of how students used their current science topic to compare our stories. ## Video Activity After reading Dare! Check out this [video by the Ned Show](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eeqQCyQOCPg) on how to be an upstander. Follow up by role-playing the four strategies from the video. ## Assessment Activity To review I created a Kahoot game based on the book series. Don’t have access to computers or iPads? No worries I created a paper version as well. ## Find all of [my activities and lesson plans in my activity packet](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Weird-Series-Activity-Packet-3184199?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Weird!%20Blog%20Post). ## A FREEBIE in January! Love what the Weird! book series did for your students? The dynamic duo of Erin Frankel and Paula Heaphy have also written [**Nobody!: A Story About Overcoming Bullying In Schools**](http://amzn.to/2AiG55p). It’s the perfect follow-up to the Weird! series. Check out other books that are perfect for school counseling! [15 Must Have Books for Elementary School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/07/24/15-must-have-books-elementary-school-counselors/) [Listening with My Heart: Book Review and Positive Self-Talk Activity](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/12/11/book-review-listening-heart/) **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Group Counseling, Your Office **Tags:** book recommendations, bullying --- ### [5 School Counseling Activities Using a Gratitude Tree](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-ways-to-repurpose-your-gratitude-tree/) **Published:** January 17, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Keri **Content:** If you’re like me, you saw the gratitude tree in the Target dollar spot and grabbed it for a fun fall activity! But now that fall is over, are you wondering what to do with that gratitude tree for the rest of the year? I was too! To stretch out the lifetime of your tree (and save some room in your closet!), check out these 5 ways to repurpose your gratitude tree for your school counseling office! ![Are you wondering what to do with your gratitude tree now that fall is over? Check out these 5 ways to repurpose your gratitude tree for school counseling!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/5-ways-to-repurpose-your-3-300x167.png) # Affirmation Tree Write encouraging positive affirmations on leaves and place them on the tree. Put the tree on a table in front of your office so that students or faculty members can take an affirmations whenever the need a pick-me-up. If you’re out of the sticky leaves that came with the tree, don’t worry! Just grab some mini clothes pins and make your own leaves for the affirmations. ![Are you wondering what to do with your gratitude tree now that fall is over? Check out these 5 ways to repurpose your gratitude tree for school counseling!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/3-1-200x300.png) # Career Family Tree When you’re doing individual career planning, help your student create a 3D career family tree to explore career patterns in her family. Write the names of family members and their careers on the leaves. As the student constructs the tree, talk about what she knows about the careers. Then, identify potential patterns in the family tree. For example, are there a lot of family members in helping professions? Are there quite a few family members in STEM careers? Notice the patterns and talk about how the student feels about and interprets this information. Finally, talk about her interests and how they may relate to potential careers. ![Are you wondering what to do with your gratitude tree now that fall is over? Check out these 5 ways to repurpose your gratitude tree for school counseling!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/2-1-200x300.png) # Self Esteem Tree Have your student write things he loves about himself and his qualities that he values on leaves and place them on the branches. Use imagery to talk about how the way we feel about ourselves is like a tree: when we feel good about ourselves it shows like lush leaves on a tree! When we feel badly about ourselves, it also shows and is like a bare tree. We can change the way we talk to ourselves and think about ourselves to help grow beautiful, lush self esteem. # Goal Progress Tree If you’re working with an individual or a small group that’s working on a big goal, use the leaves and the tree to measure progress! For example, if you have a student who has set a goal to remain in class every day this week, put a leaf on the tree each time she does! This would be a great activity for a check-out as you discuss how the day went with your student. ![Are you wondering what to do with your gratitude tree now that fall is over? Check out these 5 ways to repurpose your gratitude tree for school counseling!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/4-200x300.png) # Kindness Tree Use your tree for a kindness project! Write acts of kindness on the leaves and let students choose a leaf for a secret kindness mission! ![Are you wondering what to do with your gratitude tree now that fall is over? Check out these 5 ways to repurpose your gratitude tree for school counseling!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/1-200x300.png) Gratitude trees are a great way to help students recognize the amazing things and people in their lives, but they don’t have to be a seasonal accessory! With a little creativity and repurposing, your tree can teach important lessons all year long. What other ways are you repurposing your gratitude tree? Let us know in the comments section! ![Are you wondering what to do with your gratitude tree now that fall is over? Check out these 5 ways to repurpose your gratitude tree for school counseling!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/5-ways-to-repurpose-your-4-200x300.png) SaveSave **Categories:** Counsel It Yourself (CIY), Quick Activities **Tags:** gratitude, holidays --- ### [Setting Goals for All Students Using Scaffolding](https://confidentcounselors.com/scaffolded-setting-goals/) **Published:** January 15, 2018 **Author:** Informed Decisions **Content:** The start of the new year is the ideal time to reflect and begin setting goals for the remainder of the school year. These can be goals for professional growth, counseling or advisory groups, individual counseling treatment plans, or suggestions you have received from your principal, teachers, or colleagues. For years, I have worked in a variety of settings developing curricula, facilitating counseling and advisory, as well as, facilitating push-ins to classrooms for life-skills. I have frequently been asked if I can create a 30-minute lesson that teaches **every** student to set goals in an effort to pass their classes and graduate? After I have a good laugh in my head and hold myself back from commenting that the lesson will include a magic wand, I explain that we can create the lesson, but in order to effectively facilitate a session on goal setting it will take more time than 30 minutes to ensure all the students grasp the necessary steps toward achieving their goals. The objective is to have our students master the skills and understandings required for developing and achieving their goals. Over my career, I have developed a [scaffolded method ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Goal-Setting-Growing-Bundle-3501795?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Scaffolded%20Goal%20Setting)that allows teens and young adults to begin to understand and implement the skills that they need to be able to accomplish their goals. Think about it. If goal setting were easy to do, everyone would set and achieve their goals! Even as adults, we can struggle with this. It can also be quite time-consuming to work one-on-one with every student or participant, especially if you are in a setting with a large population. Students have different learning abilities and needs, so it is important to break down these skills into a step-by-step guide in order to aid students in understanding the process. I have created a helpful and comprehensive way to work with students in a group setting or whole class push-in. This will help lessen the time you need to teach these skills to all of your students. I make the activities fun and engaging using concrete tasks and meaningful real-life situations. Participants will learn the skills they need now and in their future to successfully meet goals. Follow the steps below to teach your students the skills they need to develop and achieve their goals at their pace rather than in a one size fits all model. # Students should learn: ## [The Importance of Focusing on and Setting Goals](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Focusing-on-Your-Goals-3045730?utm_source=Confident%20Cousnelors%20I.D.%20Goals%20Setting%20Blog%20Post%20&utm_campaign=Focusing%20on%20Goals%20Hyperlink) To gain buy-in, students will benefit from understanding what can happen when they have a clear idea of their goals. How can this goal impact their lives? This can be useful in planning out the steps they will use in attaining their goals. Ask the students, “What is your payoff for achieving this goal?” “How will you reward yourself once you accomplish your goal?”\[su\_spacer\] ![Setting goals activity. ](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Focusing-on-your-goals-300x300.jpg) ## [How to Explore and Identify What Motivates Them](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Whats-Your-Motivation-3092363?utm_source=Confident%20Cousnelors%20I.D.%20Goals%20Setting%20Blog%20Post%20&utm_campaign=What%20is%20Your%20Motivation%20Hyperlink) Students may not have had positive examples of motivated people in their lives. Facilitate an engaging activity and invite conversations that help identify the students’ motivation to accomplish their goals and what the payoffs are once their goals are met.\[su\_spacer\] ## [How to Identify Different Types of Goals and the Goal Subject](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Identifying-Your-Goals-3501444?utm_source=Confident%20Cousnelors%20I.D.%20Goals%20Setting%20Blog%20Post%20&utm_campaign=Identifying%20Goals%20Hyperlink) You want students to be able to distinguish between long- and short-term goals. Emphasizing short-term goals and reviewing examples will help students feel more in control and less overwhelmed in reaching their longer-term goals. Goal subjects can include: academic, career, family, health and wellness, financial, and social-emotional goals. This step will help with planning how they will achieve their goals.\[su\_spacer\] ## Identify the Goal and Make it Measurable Once the students decide on a long-term goal they each want to set, guide them to choose their short-term goals. Create S.M.A.R.T. goals so that they will be able to later evaluate the impact of their met goals. \[su\_spacer\] ## Be Prepared for Obstacles This is an area often overlooked and may set-up the students for failure if it is not discussed. Review with the students the possible barriers that may come before they can reach their goals, and help them come up with solutions and backup plans.\[su\_spacer\]![help student prepare for obstacles when setting goals.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Scaffold-Goal-Setting-FB.png) ## Follow-Up Goals can take a long time to reach, and it, therefore, becomes important to check-in and make sure that these steps are being met. This process takes time and needs continuous and consistent follow-up to be effective. Have students reflect on and evaluate their progress toward meeting their goals with the help of a checklist. They will visually note what they have accomplished and what they need to continue working on. Teach the students accountability by encouraging them to share their goal progress, including challenges and solutions. For example, I have a student whose long-term goal is to graduate. He visits the office daily and announces that he had attended all of his classes for the day. Even though he has the urge to skip class, this was the first step he chose to accomplish his goal. After several group sessions, the students will able to see some progress, develop healthy habits for setting goals, and be able to create and set goals for themselves in the future. ## What activities have you used to help students achieve their goals? #### Other Confident Counselors Posts on Setting Goals [Conversations: How do you set goals in counseling?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/05/conversations-goal-setting-counseling/) [Why you should be using SMART goals in counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/21/smart-goals-counseling/) from **Social Emotional Workshop** **Categories:** Group Counseling **Tags:** counseling activities, setting goals --- ### [How to Use Peer Mentoring in School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/peer-mentoring/) **Published:** January 24, 2018 **Author:** The DIY Counselor **Content:** School counselors use peer mentoring in a variety of ways. It is a little scary to think about students mentoring other students around the same age. However, students are likely to share concerns or problems with peers than their parents or other adults at school. To ease your reluctance to use peer mentoring, read [ASCA’s position statement](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/PositionStatements/PS_PeerHelping.pdf) on peer support programs. # Considerations for Peer Mentoring Before you get started, there are several things to consider with peer mentoring programs. Most importantly, how will mentoring help reach your **program goals**? Develop a plan that will help you accomplish your goals. Next, determine how to **select and train** your mentors. Finally, develop **activities that support** your desired outcomes. Your mentoring program may look different from others you know. That’s OK. Figure out what meets your needs and go with it. # Peer Mentoring with Individual Students With this in mind, use mentoring with individual students. Have you ever had that student that doesn’t open up? You’ve tried everything, but can’t connect? A peer mentor may be the answer. Partner a mentor with your troubled student to complete a project for your program – a school-wide handout, birthday cards, or other activity. ![Peer mentoring as part of your school counseling program. Consider your school's needs.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/2-3-1024x536.png) Use mentors to **welcome new students** as they transition to your school. It helps if each classroom has a designated student mentor. If this isn’t the case, assign a mentor of your choice to walk alongside new students. Finally, **academic tutoring** is another way to use mentors in your program to address individual students. Identify the need and match peers based on interest and ability. Get more info about one-to-one cross-age mentoring [here](https://www.nationalmentoringresourcecenter.org/index.php/what-works-in-mentoring/model-and-population-reviews.html?layout=edit&id=301). # Peer Mentoring with Small Groups Small groups are an easy way to use mentors in school counseling. Consider organizing a **lunch group** for students struggling with social skills. Include peer mentors who are engaging and like to talk. Plan a simple activity, a game or project, and watch the magic happen. In addition, academic tutoring needs can be met in a mentor-led small group. ![Peer mentoring as part of your school counseling program. Consider your school's needs.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/3-2-1024x536.png) Also, peer mentoring in small groups is a great a way to manage a **transition program** for middle and high school. Check out [Peer Group Connection](http://supportiveschools.org/solutions/peer-group-connection/) and [The Boomerang Project](http://www.boomerangproject.com/) for information on transition programs. [The National Mentoring Resource Center](https://www.nationalmentoringresourcecenter.org/index.php/what-works-in-mentoring/model-and-population-reviews.html?id=121) and [The National Mentor Partnership](http://www.mentoring.org/) provide information on group mentoring. # Work with What You’ve Got In a word, peer mentoring is overwhelming. You may not have an organized program, yet. But, think about how you use peers already. You may have some structure already in place to set up a peer mentoring program. ![Peer mentoring as part of your school counseling program. Consider your school's needs.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/myphotoIMG_1078-300x225.jpg)Do you have student ambassadors or a leadership team? If so, this is the perfect place to start, if you aren’t sure where to begin. Remember, every school is unique, and every year is different. There are personal benefits both for the mentors and mentees that are a part of your program. Use your position as a school counselor to develop a distinct peer mentoring program that reflects your school population and meets your needs. #### If you have a successful peer mentoring program, share it! We would love to hear your perspective on this! **Categories:** Your Program **Tags:** Middle School, peer mentoring --- ### [How do you use technology in school counseling?](https://confidentcounselors.com/technology-in-school-counseling/) **Published:** January 19, 2018 **Author:** EduKate & Inspire, The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store and Counselor Keri **Content:** Incorporating technology in school counseling can really engage students, but sometimes it can be hard to figure out how to use it in simple ways. Some Confident Counselors have great suggestions for how they use tech to improve their lessons and keep themselves organized. How have you been using technology as a school counselor? \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] # Engaging, Smooth Lessons ![The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store.jpg)I have found my students are more engaged in classroom lessons and group counseling sessions when I incorporate technology. I have updated many of my lessons in the PowerPoint format so it can be viewed on a SmartBoard or computer. I find by doing this and adding cute graphics, video clips or songs, student participation increases greatly. When I can, I also like to add a game or review question activity that allows the students to get out of their seats to click the SmartBoard screen. An example lesson that includes a PowerPoint story and review activity can be found here [Table Manners Social Story and Activity.](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Table-Manners-Story-and-Activity-2110328?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Tech%20in%20School%20Counseling) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Table-Manners-Sunny-Cover-300x300.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Table-Manners-Story-and-Activity-2110328?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Tech%20in%20School%20Counseling) I have found that presenting my lessons this way helps to keep me on track and remember all my talking points with ease because it’s all on the screen. This strategy also helps to calm my jitters during formal observations. **– [The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] # Student Involvement and Organization ![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-150x150.png)I have always been a techie person, so I love looking for ways to incorporate technology in school counseling. I am fortunate to work at a school that is full of technology. Each classroom has one-to-one devices, SmartBoards, and document cameras. When I teach my classroom lessons, I almost always use a Google Presentation to display content visually as I teach. I use a lot of media in my lessons including videos from YouTube and interactive websites. One of my favorite classroom lessons that incorporates technology is my 4th-grade career lesson. Students research a chosen career based on their interests and then create a Google Slide about their chosen career. At the end of the lesson, we end up with a 20-25 slide presentation that students can click through to learn about their friend’s career interests! [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Digital-Counseling-Binder-300x300.jpg)](http://bit.ly/EduKateBinder) Beyond counseling lessons, I also use technology to keep myself organized. Going digital has helped me become more efficient. I can easily locate important info and make adjustments from year to year. If you are interested in learning more about using technology to stay organized, check out my [Digital Counseling Binder](http://bit.ly/EduKateBinder). – **Kate from** **[EduKate and Inspire](http://bit.ly/EduKateBlog)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] # Hands-On Activities ![Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Counselor-Keri-150x150.png)I love incorporating technology into individual and group counseling, as well as classroom guidance lessons! My lessons start with a warm-up dance, stretch, or other physical activity using YouTube clips to help students get jitters out and settle their bodies. I have recently become really interested in using Google Slides, Forms, and Sheets in various ways. Google Forms is great for check-in/check-out interventions. Students record and enter their own data from feedback they’ve received throughout the day towards their goals. The data are easy to access and analyze. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Think-it-Say-it-Keri-300x300.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Think-It-or-Say-It-Digital-Activity-for-Elementary-School-Counseling-3241839?utm_source=CC%20Conversation&utm_campaign=Think%20it%20or%20Say%20it%20Digital%20Activity%201%2F2018) Google slides is perfect for creating easy-to-access sorting activities that are totally paperless! My favorite digital sorting activity is this [Think It or Say It](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Think-It-or-Say-It-Digital-Activity-for-Elementary-School-Counseling-3241839?utm_source=CC%20Conversation&utm_campaign=Think%20it%20or%20Say%20it%20Digital%20Activity%201%2F2018) task set. Google is such a game-changer when it comes to cutting down on paper, keeping track of and analyzing data, and making fun, interactive activities for students! – **Keri from** **[Counselor Keri](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri)** ## More School Counseling Tech [Creating a School Counseling Needs Assessment Using Google Forms](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/05/09/creating-a-school-counseling-needs-assessment-using-google-forms/) **Categories:** Class Lessons, Counseling, Counselor Chats, Counselor Role **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Keri, digital, EduKate & Inspire, Sunny Sunshine Store, technology --- ### [Using Mindfulness In School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/using-mindfulness-in-school-counseling/) **Published:** January 22, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Chelsey **Content:** Mindfulness is popping up everywhere nowadays. As a school based counselor, teaching students to focus on the present moment and acknowledge their thoughts and feelings in a non-judgmental way seems like a dream. Better yet, there is research to prove that it can [decrease behavioral problems](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs12671-012-0171-9), [decrease symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression](https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/15/mindfulness-in-schools-re_n_2884436.html?1366217372), and [increase working memory capacity](http://www.jahonline.org/article/S1054-139X(15)00380-8/abstract). If you are like I was, you think the idea of using mindfulness in your school counseling program is great, but then you ask yourself how. How do I introduce and teach this complex concept to my little learners? Is there a way to integrate it into the lessons and activities I am already doing? The task seems daunting. Thankfully, there are many resources out there to help you incorporate this important practice into the groups and lessons you do every day! # Videos for Mindfulness Videos are one of my favorite tools to use in my counseling lessons. They are a great way to get students interested and engaged in what they are learning. Fortunately, there are many videos out there that can help you explain mindfulness and how it works. One of my favorites below shows kids from a school in New Zealand sharing about what mindfulness is. I like this video because it gives students a broad picture of what mindfulness is and they get to see that it is something kids can practice. For older kids, [this video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNCB1MZDgQA) goes into detail about how our brain functions and how mindfulness can help train the brain to be calm. If you are looking for a way to use videos to help students practice mindfulness, ClassDojo has [these videos](https://ideas.classdojo.com/b/mindfulness) that kids love and that will help your students to enjoy the present moment. These videos are a great way to introduce the concept of mindfulness in a way that your students will understand! # Books for Mindfulness ![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0884483967&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20) ![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1433807963&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20) When introducing the concept of mindfulness to students, it can be helpful to use picture books. Two of my favorite are **[The Lemonade Hurricane](https://www.amazon.com/Lemonade-Hurricane-Story-Mindfulness-Meditation/dp/0884483967/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1515182921&sr=8-1&keywords=the+lemonade+hurricane) by Licia Morelli** and **[Take The Time: Mindfulness For Kids](https://www.amazon.com/Take-Time-Mindfulness-Maud-Roegiers/dp/1433807963/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1515182972&sr=1-1&keywords=take+the+time+mindfulness+for+kids) by Maud Roegiers**. I love these books because students learn what mindfulness actually is and how they can practice it. They are a great way to begin your mindfulness lessons and introduce the concepts of being in the present, deep breathing and noticing your thoughts and feelings. ![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&l=li3&o=1&a=0884483967) ![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&l=li3&o=1&a=1433807963) # Guided Meditation Scripts ![Mindful Mornings Guided meditation scripts](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Mindful-Mornings-239x300.jpg)Guided meditation scripts help students to refocus and calm their minds. They can be read out loud and students can follow along. I love to use [these scripts](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mindful-Mornings-30-Guided-Meditation-Scripts-2265062?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Mindful%20Mornings) from my [Teachers Pay Teachers store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselorchelsey?utm_source=CCC&utm_campaign=TpT%20Store) at the beginning of lessons to get students ready to learn, after a fun activity when the students are struggling to “come back” to the lesson, and/or at the end of the lesson to help the students with the transition to the next activity. When you first start using guided meditations, students may need some time to get used to the idea. However, I have found that with consistency, even some of my most reluctant students end up begging for them! # Deep Breathing Strategies One key mindfulness strategy is deep breathing. Deep breathing is a powerful way to slow down the body and brain, and help us to feel calm and clear. You can use deep breathing strategies with your students when they are facing strong emotions, and as a start and finish to your lessons. Here are some of my favorite deep breathing strategies: - **4-7-8 Breathing** – This well-known breathing technique is very helpful for relaxing the body and brain. To perform this type of breath, breathe in through your nose for four seconds. Then, hold your breath for 7 seconds and exhale for 8 seconds. Repeat as needed. I love this strategy because it is quick and easy to remember, meaning it is easy for students to use on their own! - **Smell A Candle, Blow It Out** – This visual is great for helping your students who are just beginning to learn about deep breathing. In this exercise, students will breathe in through their noses, as they pretend that they are smelling a candle. Next, the students will breathe out through their mouths, as they pretend that they are blowing it out. Students can repeat as needed. - **Belly Breathing** – In this exercise, students will really focus on the presence of the breath in their belly. Students will breathe deeply, in through the nose and out through the mouth, as they notice the way that their stomach moves. For added visual effect, I like to have the students gently place their hands on their stomachs to watch it rise and fall. # Brain Breaks For older students, or for students who have well-developed self-regulation skills, I love using mindfulness activities as brain breaks. When students feel overwhelmed, they can take a break and perform a short mindfulness activity. ![These mindfulness resources and strategies are great additions to your individual, small group and classroom counseling lessons.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/At-the-end-of-the-brain-breaks-heading-300x269.png) I place [these cards](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mindfulness-Activity-Cards-2517379?utm_source=CCC&utm_campaign=Mindful%20Activity%20Cards) in a jar and keep them in my office. If free time during a lesson, I will allow students to go choose a card as needed. If I notice that a student is starting to struggle, I may suggest that they go visit the jar. However, I never force them to as I don’t want it to be seen as a punishment. I love using these because they are short and sweet. They can be done quickly, and they are also easy for the students to remember. I have had many students come back and tell me about a mindfulness activity they used at home that was on one of the brain break cards! Mindfulness can benefit your students in so many ways, and it doesn’t have to be intimidating! There are many resources available to help you integrate mindfulness into your school counseling program. Do you have any mindfulness resources that you love? Let me know about them in the comments section! **Categories:** Group Counseling, Your Program **Tags:** mindfulness --- ### [Handling Uncomfortable Conversations with Staff and Parents](https://confidentcounselors.com/handling-uncomfortable-conversations/) **Published:** January 31, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Up **Content:** I have a saying, “If it’s uncomfortable, give it to the counselor.” Any time that an awkward or uncomfortable conversation needs to take place with a parent, staff member, or volunteer, counselors are called to use our skills to smooth the way for those involved. Uncomfortable conversations include discussing parenting skills, classroom management, disclosing abuse, or speaking with a parent about their child’s suicidal ideation. Sometimes uncomfortable conversations escalate and become uncomfortable for you as the counselor. ## Empathy A conversation with a parent about their child pushes all their buttons and triggers. Maybe their child has some of the same issues that they themselves had as a child. Maybe they are scared about what the impact of what you are sharing is for their child. This is also true for teachers and staff members. For most, being an educator is not a job but a vocation. When speaking with staff members about their work, empathy can go a long way to overcoming the feeling that you are attacking. How do you best show empathy? Listen, listen, listen. Often when we have an uncomfortable conversation, we want to make sure that we check off the boxes of what needs to be said. Calling about suicidal ideation? You want to make sure that you share the next steps and the “what now.” However, the parent might still be reeling and not yet be ready to think about next steps. Ask questions like, “This is a lot, how are you feeling?” Let parents and teachers know that you care about how they are. ## Refuse to Escalate Whether the parent or teacher is angry, worried, or upset, refuse to escalate with them. Your calm and confidence will counterbalance their escalation. This is one of the hardest to do! I find it helpful to use the same techniques I use with students. I take calm breaths and give myself mental space to allow the behavior to happen in front of me rather than to me. It takes practice but it really does work! If the adult I am speaking with is being rude or offensive, I calmly say “I am ready to talk to you about this when you are calm enough to have a conversation. Why don’t you give me a call back when you’re ready.” ## Keep It Focused You want to help their child, they want to help their child. Return to this as often as possible. I once had a conversation with a parent about their child being bullied. They were very frustrated that I couldn’t tell them more about what was happening with the other student. There was no convincing that we had to follow federal law and keep student information confidential. I kept repeating, “We are 100% committed to your child’s safety and emotional well-being at school.” Eventually, the parents were able to de-escalate and move to problem-solving. If a coworker escalates, it usually involves an inability to focus on the issue at hand. They are frustrated or concerned and can’t get to the point of problem-solving. The same technique works here. We can keep it focused on moving forward to support the student. I have a secret phrase that I rely on when I am starting to get frustrated and don’t want to let it show. It works great when a coworker is venting and you want to move the conversation forward. **I simply say, “I hear ya.”** It gives a feeling of support even if I don’t agree with what’s being said. You don’t have to use that phrase but finding a stock phrase that will work for you can help you to remain focused when you begin to get frustrated. ## Staff Members Sometimes having uncomfortable conversations with staff members is even more challenging because you have to see them every day. You might also see them outside of work and be actual friends with them. There is value in calling out the situation as it is so that you can discuss and move forward. I once worked with a teacher who felt like I had tattled on her to the principal. In retrospect, I completely see where she was coming from. For a while, she gave me the cold shoulder and I couldn’t figure out what was going on. I finally went to her and told her that I could tell something was wrong. We ended up having a good conversation where we both cleared the air. Uncomfortable conversations are sometimes the very best for moving forward in our work for students. Make sure to check out our [Confident Conversations post](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/27/phone-calls-angry-parent/) for some great ideas from my colleagues! ![uncomfortable conversations with staff and parents are a part of school counselor's jobs. A few tips to make these awkward, but important conversations easier.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Uncomfortable-Pin.png) **Categories:** Parents, Teachers **Tags:** collaboration, hard conversations, parents --- ### [What’s the secret for successful small group counseling?](https://confidentcounselors.com/successful-small-group-counseling/) **Published:** January 26, 2018 **Author:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials, School Counselor Stephanie and Counselor Chelsey and 1 more **Content:** Small group counseling is an essential part of a school counselor’s role, and boy is it tough. Facilitating useful small groups goes beyond meeting over lunch. Some confident counselors have tips for how they keep things purposeful, effective, and fun. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] # Know Your Purpose ![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg)I get asked this question all the time, especially since I have written several small group curriculum that have been published. There isn’t just one secret, there are several. First, it is important to have a **purpose**. Too many times I hear that counselors just want to meet during lunch with a group of students. There needs to be more of a purpose. What is your why? Determining this will give you a goal and will drive the work that goes on in the group. Second, you need to **prescreen** group members. It is important that members know why they are there, that they know the rules and agree to follow them, and that they want to be a part of it. Missing one of these components can hurt the effectiveness of the group for all members. Last, you need a **plan**. You should have a curriculum that follows a group process. Learning, goal setting, allowing members time to respond, opportunities for processing emotions and trust building need to be included. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Manating-Anger-Group-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/successful-small-group-counseling/manating-anger-group/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Starbound-232x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/successful-small-group-counseling/starbound/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Building-Champions-230x300.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/successful-small-group-counseling/building-champions/) My most successful groups have between 6-8 members (for grades 6-8–you should have about 4 members for grade PK-2, and up to 5-6 members for grades 3-5) and my favorite groups to run are [StarBound ](https://www.youthlight.com/product.php?id=3071)for girls, [Building Champion](https://www.researchpress.com/books/1297/building-champions)s for boys, and my [Managing Anger](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Managing-Your-Anger-Group-Counseling-Program-2518878?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Small%20Group%20Tips) group **– Carol Miller, [The Middle School Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] # Set Clear Behavior Expectations ![CounselorChelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/CounselorChesleyRound-150x150.png)Small groups can be tricky. There are so many components of a successful small group – students that are ready to willingly participate, a strong curriculum, engaging activities. For me, the most important is to set and hold **clear behavioral expectations** for your students. If students are not focused and ready to learn, they will not be able to absorb any of the group material and may keep other students from learning as well. My favorite way to set these expectations is to have the students help establish them during the first session. This is a great way to get student buy-in and to set the stage for a successful group! **– [CounselorChelsey](http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/CounselorChelsey)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] # Plan a Strong Curriculum ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/SchoolCounselorStephanie.png)I love running groups SO MUCH! They really are my favorite part of school counseling! After 10 years of creating and facilitating psychoeducational groups, I have definitely figured out the secret to their success: having an **excellent session plan** or curriculum to follow. As with anything in life, having a structured plan just makes things flow a little bit smoother. Anything that adds a smooth flow to your groups is a must, since having a bunch of students with life challenges in the same room can be anything but smooth. Along with a strong curriculum, consistently followed **group rules**, challenges/celebrations discussions, SMART goal setting, and movement-oriented activities will really help to make your group effective. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Get-Your-Group-On-232x300.png)](https://youthlight.com/product.php?id=3281) I have written a lot about running effective groups, so you can find more tips on running groups at my blog, [School Counselor Stephanie](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/). Finally, for a dynamic, clear, and easy-to-follow group curriculum, check out my newest Youthlight book, [Get Your Group On!](https://youthlight.com/product.php?id=3281) **[– School Counselor Stephanie](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] # Carefully Choose Group Members ![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg)The secret to a successful small group is a **thoughtful selection** of each group member and **preplanning** of activities. After I have defined a clear purpose for the group, I think about the best mix of group members. Carefully check for personality clashes as well as backgrounds that may not work well together. I want my groups to be safe places where kids can feel free to share. I make every effort possible to ensure that can happen. Once I have a clear purpose and the group members identified, I make sure the participants have clearly defined norms for the group. I have found that by allowing them to set norms as a group, the members feel more connected to one another and are more likely to adhere to the rules. I like to have hands-on, engaging activities for each lesson. Allowing students to talk about tough issues (such as their anger or[ frenemy](http://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/2017/03/girls-group-interactive-book.html) tendencies) in creative ways has fostered tremendous growth for my students. **[– Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] # Small Group Counseling Ideas and Advice [Making Small Groups Work](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/14/making-counseling-groups-work/) [Small Group Counseling: Organize and Run Effective Groups](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/09/15/small-group-counseling-organize-and-run-successful-groups/) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Group Counseling **Tags:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials, CC tips, counseling routines, Counselor Chelsey, group counseling, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, School Counselor Stephanie --- ### [How do you keep a healthy work-life balance?](https://confidentcounselors.com/healthy-work-life-balance/) **Published:** February 2, 2018 **Author:** Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, The DIY Counselor and Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop **Content:** We talk about [self-care and work-life balance](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/career-stress/) a lot on Confident Counselors, and for good reason. This is a tough job that comes with a lot of rewards. BUT if you aren’t thoughtful about caring for yourself, you not only won’t be able to effectively care for others, you will burn out. #realtalk. Three Confident Counselors, including myself, share how we care for ourselves and keep our boundaries around work. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg) I have learned keeping a healthy work-life balance has made be a better version of myself, allowing me to better care for everyone else. I maintain a healthy work/life balance by doing three things. #### Leaving work at an appropriate time. There is always so much that needs to be done; at some point, you have to shut your work brain down and go home. When you leave, you have to leave behind the job and all that comes with it. I find that going for a walk before I go home helps me leave the work baggage at the door. #### Making a priority list instead of a to-do list. At the end of the day, as long as the important things are done, I can walk away from work satisfied. #### I take one hour a week for myself. I do not do anything that has to do with work and take the time to relax and regain focus for the upcoming week. When you are on a plane, they tell you to secure your own oxygen mask before helping others for a reason. If we aren’t maintaining a good work/life balance and aren’t taking care of our own sanity and well-being, we are really doing a disservice to those that depend on us. [-Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] [![The DIY Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor)Creating a healthy work-life balance is vital in preventing burnout in our profession. I have learned to set boundaries that help keep me grounded and focused. It has been a process, but I have realized how important self-care is. Here are some things that have helped me: #### Exercise and Eating Habits More cardio and less sugar. This is so counter-intuitive if you know me, but changing what I eat and having an exercise routine has given me more energy and helped me lose some unwanted pounds. #### No Work Email No work email on my devices and no answering work emails after hours. Definitely, a challenge for me, but it allows me to focus on my family and not be on call 24/7. #### Avoid negativity and embrace the positive I avoid toxic people and attitudes, and work really hard to build positive relationships in my workplace. When that negativity starts creeping in, I take a step back and reflect. Is there something I need to do differently? Are my perceptions true? Am I compromising my boundaries? Self-care is not selfish. We have to figure out a way to protect our mind, body, and spirit in order to do the work we do. I love what Anne Lamott says: > Radical self-care is what we’ve been longing for, desperate for, our entire lives-friendship with our own hearts. It is necessary. Be kind to yourself with a healthy work/life balance. [– The DIY Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] [![Social Emotional Workshop](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Logo2017-150x150.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop) In what seems like another life, I was working 14 hours days. Working while watching football on Sunday, falling asleep sitting up, and watching my gym routine disappear in the rearview mirror. I was stressed, unhealthy, and miserable. I had to make changes. I knew I wanted my family and my mental and physical health to be a priority. I created some routines and self-reflective questions that have kept me doing what I love and most importantly, happy and healthy. #### Routines to Minimize Stress It might sound super rigid, but I have very **specific routines** I do every day. In the morning, I have coffee and walk my dog. I live in New York City, and it is surprisingly quiet at this time. It clears my head for the day. I do all this before I check my phone. I have a **no phone rule** for the first 20-30 minutes I’m awake. When I start my workday, I review my **priority list** for the day. I create this list every day at the end of the day. This helps me get started right away when I’m feeling fresh. Even my social life is pretty routine. I go to the gym three days a week. I have date-nights, family BBQs, dinner with friends. I don’t budge on those things. I don’t give up the gym because I want to obsessively work on some lesson. I don’t pass on date night because I need to respond to some emails. Now, this doesn’t always work. Sometimes, I fall into old habits and skip the gym or tell my boyfriend that I just need 30 minutes after dinner to do some work. When I feel myself losing control of these things, I ask myself the following questions: - Is this more important than my health or my family? - Was there a better way to have gotten this done before this moment? - Can I rethink my schedule during the day to stop things from bleeding over? Our relationships and health are so important. We need to keep ourselves present at work and at home. Find your own personal recipe that works for you. We’d love to hear your ideas! ![How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance. School counselors have a lot of career stress. We need to regularly employ self-care.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/23-1.jpg) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Self Care **Tags:** CC tips, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, self care, Social Emotional Workshop, The DIY Counselor --- ### [4 Easy Ways to Promote National School Counseling Week](https://confidentcounselors.com/promote-national-school-counseling-week/) **Published:** January 29, 2018 **Author:** The Counseling Teacher Brandy **Content:** One week per year, school counselors from around the nation, find ways to spread the word about how school counselors positively impact their schools. National School Counseling Week (NSCW) is a week to celebrate the profession. The [American School Counseling Association](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/), or ASCA, has created this week to advocate for the importance of our profession. It is not about being self-boasting. Instead, it is a necessary deed to inform your school of your impact on the school and community. **Don’t be shy. Be Confident!** # 4 easy ways to advocate for the school counseling profession ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Slide17.jpg) ## Signs, signs, everywhere signs Post signs and design bulletin boards showcasing the many reasons why students could see the counselor and a reminder of where your room is located. I use a colorful banner with a different reason to see the counselor on each pennant. I post those at the front of each hallway. It’s always fun to watch the students reading these as they walk through the hallways. ## Show me the data! Use data to show off the difference you are making in your school. Using a powerpoint or keynote presentation, you can show before and after reports from test scores, attendance records, grade reports or other student data that has been positively affected by your interventions. The changes shown in those reports will be a real eye-opener for the effectiveness of your program. Explain that you use standards-based lessons recommended by the American School Counseling Association (ASCA). Yes, for those who may not know at your school, counselors do have nationally recognized, research-based standards. ## Freebies Everybody likes getting something for free. There are many inexpensive items that you can either make with your school printer or purchase from an online promotional products website. Set up a table in a centralized location in the school with helium balloons from the dollar store and prizes to attract students to the table. This could be as simple as a bookmark with your information on it, a silicone wristband with a mindful message embossed on it or an edible treat. If you ask your principal or parent organization, they may give you funding for these purchases. ## Theme days Have a different theme for each day during National School Counseling Week. Themes could center around social-emotional, career, and academic success. An example of a theme week could look something like the following below. However, you would want to tailor yours based on the needs of your school by reviewing the needs assessment or student survey from the beginning of the school year. #### Monday – Career Readiness Give away handouts with **career exploration** tips and helpful websites for career matching during lunch periods. Have a poster display up with trending new career options. You could also create a jobs bulletin board showcasing some of the past jobs of current teachers at your school. This is a fun way to get students thinking about their future. #### Tuesday – Study Skills Hand out pencils or post it pads with study skills tips printed on them. #### Wednesday – Stress Busters Give out bookmarks with tips for reducing stress and examples of simple breathing exercises. #### Thursday – Kindness Post signs with suggestions for spreading kindness. Send teachers an easy kindness craft to complete with students. An example would be spreading kindness with post it notes. Have students write compliments on post it notes and put them throughout the school on lockers, desks, and doors. #### Friday – Cyber Safety Have students pledge to stay cyber safe and create healthy limits for their technology usage. Let them sign an oversized poster in the hallway. Include tips on a worksheet on how to be cautious online and how to set healthy technology boundaries and time usage limits. I hope these tips were helpful for you and motivate you to spread the word about the importance of the school counseling profession. Please leave a comment with how you celebrate National School Counseling Week. Check our Confident Counselors’ advice for [advocating for your role.](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/02/05/school-counselor-advocacy/) ![National School Counseling Week](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Slide07-455x1024.jpg) **Categories:** Advocacy **Tags:** National School Counseling Week --- ### [What Kindness Activities Are You Incorporating This Month?](https://confidentcounselors.com/kindness-activities-february/) **Published:** February 9, 2018 **Author:** The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store and The Counseling Teacher Brandy **Content:** February is a great time to incorporate kindness activities with Valentine’s Day and Random Acts of Kindness Week. Do you focus on kindness this month? What do you have planned? \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] [![The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store)Valentine’s Day is one of my favorite holidays! One of the ways I incorporate love and kindness is with [The Kindness Counts Challenge](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kindness-Counts-Challenge-2933469) resource available in my store. This resource is perfect for promoting students to be kind during the month of February or really any time of the year. It includes two options allowing students to complete random acts of kindness and create a cute bulletin board to promote the acts of kindness completed. Students love working together to see how many acts of kindness can be completed during the month. To continue with the love theme, I partner with the ELA department to help encourage students to read outside of their school day. To do this, I create Valentine’s Day bookmarks for my students and pass them out as their Valentines. [– The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/round-logo-solid-black-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson)We celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Week in February. Each year, we do something a little bit different. We post positive messages on student lockers and desks. We post challenge sheets with tear-off strips in the restrooms and hallways with suggestions for random acts of kindness that could easily be completed at the school for a fellow classmate or teacher. Students take one and promise to do that act. Some years, we send around a [shout-outs binder](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Faculty-Morale-Shout-Outs-Binder-plus-Posters-1421284) for faculty and staff to pass thank you notes to each other. It’s always so much fun to read the binder full of sweet notes from teacher to teacher. [– The Counseling Teacher Brandy Thompson](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] #### More Kindness Ideas Check out [10 Minute Kindness Activities for the Classroom](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/08/kindness_activities/) and [Creating a Culture of Kindness.](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/02/05/creating-a-culture-of-kindness/) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Your Program **Tags:** events, kindness, Sunny Sunshine Store, The Counseling Teacher Brandy --- ### [Facilitating Psychoeducational Groups in Schools](https://confidentcounselors.com/facilitate-psychoeducational-group/) **Published:** February 5, 2018 **Author:** School Counselor Stephanie **Content:** One of my professional goals for this year is to keep refining my school counseling support groups. To do this, I’ve been compiling the latest and greatest best practice psychoeducational group counseling tips and techniques. Now, I’d like to share this essential group counseling information with you! ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/6c2a5649-475d-45e3-bce6-61550d346c7d_image1.jpg) So, let’s start off with a definition- what exactly is a school counseling support group? A student support group is a planned, repeated gathering of 5-10 students who work to learn, apply, or master a skill. However, for the purpose of this post, a school counseling support group is psychoeducational in nature and is led by a mental health professional who helps members gain information and develop skills for challenging situations through education-based techniques. # Why Run a Psychoeducational Group? Group work is crucial to student success in every school counseling program. In a best practice counseling program, all students receive what is known as ***Tier 1 Instruction*** through guidance lessons focused on knowledge and skills from on a set school counseling curriculum. After these guidance lessons are presented to the entire student body, it is reasonable that all students will not master the lesson topics. These are the students who need further instruction through a Tier 2 psychoeducational group. Generally, when the intensity (fewer students in the learning environment) and frequency (being re-taught the information a second time) are increased, the students who didn’t master the Tier 1 knowledge will be able to master it at Tier 2. Students who do not master the information at Tier 2 can learn it again at Tier 3- but that is a topic for another post. Another reason that group work is important is that some students have life experiences for which they need specific support. For example, if you have a group of students who are all struggling from recent family changes, such as a divorce, these students may greatly benefit from a psychoeducational group that gives information on how to handle the stress that divorce can create. # Psychoeducational Group Planning At my school, we start the second semester group planning process in January as soon as we return from Winter Break. This allows us to actually start running the group sessions by the end of January. The planning process to get groups up and running is a bit lengthy because there is just so much to do! Check out my [Group Prep Checklist](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KxQg3GVl0P37LuJkRQ0kiHSIhPXQsnFmEmSeVbRSbEQ/edit?usp=sharing) to keep track of all the tasks. The first thing I do is interview and orient the prospective group members. We pull these prospective members from a campus-wide needs assessment and discuss three main points with them in individual interviews: we explain the purpose and content of the group, we gage their interest in being a group member, and we give them a [group permission form,](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zMCD4FKXQV2YqZ-HUCVrOeQtaQO4pVoQN0wnjOhprzU/edit?usp=sharing) if they are interested. The first ones to return a signed permission form are the ones that go into the group. Our counseling office **ALWAYS** has a waiting list for groups as poverty and family trauma really impact our kids. # Facilitating Your Psychoeducational Group I have a complete guide to group counseling sessions that provides guidance and activities for all aspects of running a psychoeducational group. Here some of **my top recommendations** for running each session: Start each session with a **warmup puzzle or relaxation technique** related to the session theme. My favorite is the Mindful Minute, where everyone puts their head down and focuses on their breathing for one minute until I sound the chimes to end the exercise. My group members really grow to love this calming start to each session! **Review the [group rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/158lyzEjmbVNgl-djACc4r_tRfoIV2Mv-jset_cAsZb4/edit?usp=sharing)** together at the start of every session and gently correct any group member not following a rule. Give a **pre/posttest** during the first and last session of the group to collect data about knowledge gained. Teach members how to create a **self-chosen SMART goal.** Give them time every session to review their goal and share with the group a success, no matter how small. Provide **structured, positive group activities** with a bit of fun and a lot of movement thrown in. Teach a 5-10 minute mini-lesson on the session topic. To link group work directly with success in school, **give members a report** of their current grades. Encourage them to create their SMART goal to improve their grades. Then review grades and their SMART goal in every session. If time, play a game such as **Coping Skills Bingo or [Cool It!](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cool-It-An-Anger-Management-Healthy-Coping-Skills-Game-3557425?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Psychoeducational%20Groups)** to wrap things up in a fun way and keep the overall mood of the group very positive. Generally, it is best to run psychoeducational groups **weekly for 6-8 sessions**. # Psychoeducational Group Topics On my school campus, we will be running between 10-15 school counseling support groups this semester. Here are a few of the groups you can run and how to run them. Group curriculum guides for the groups below are included in my books, [Get Your Group On, Volumes One and Two.](https://youthlight.com/product.php?id=3281) ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/90e0b772-aa20-4e4a-ac5e-fbfc570f2de6_image4.jpg) **Be Cool** – This group uses role play and learning strategies to help students understand and manage their anger. We share info on the damaging health effects of recurring anger and on how to manage anger by changing thoughts and perspectives. **From Grief to Relief** – This is my newest group where members support each other through the grief process. Session topics such as choosing their support network, identifying characteristics of the grief process, closure through artistic expression, and envisioning a hopeful future are taught with gentle, soothing activities. ![book on bullying, great for a psychoeducational group.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/8db96fdd-437b-4860-9370-3a4c5c845b23_image2.jpg) **Girl World** – This group meets weekly to discuss issues that girls commonly struggle with such as friendships, rumors/gossip, dating and body image. We use group strategies such as role plays, read alouds (one of my favorites is [Letters to a Bullied Girl](https://www.amazon.com/Letters-Bullied-Girl-Messages-Healing/dp/0061544620) ), art projects, and games. # Additional Psychoeducational Group Resources Finally, I’d like to share some of my favorite resources that I use in group counseling. [ASCA’S “The School Counselor and Group Counseling](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/PositionStatements/PS_Group-Counseling.pdf)”– This is the official position statement on group counseling in schools from the American School Counseling Association; it includes a dynamite resources list! [Healthy Coping Skills](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/A-Healthy-New-Year-Student-Support-Group-Session-or-Lesson-3534302)– This session activity on healthy coping skills is a MUST for any counseling group. [Watch Wellcast](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHXs8_HRDm33vFtVuSLKrCw)– This Youtube site provides amazing videos on a variety of mental health and school success topics; my students love when I show one in group. [Kidshealth](https://kidshealth.org/)– Superb social, emotional, academic, and behavioral resources for students, I utilize a lot of the Kidshealth resources in my group session information sharing. [Infoaboutkids.org](http://infoaboutkids.org/)– This site provides cutting-edge science-based info to promote healthy child and family development. [Common Sense Media](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/)– This is my go-to site to find video clips highlighting whatever topic we are working on in our session. And on that note, I’ll leave you with one of the best group counseling comics of all time! I’d love to hear your group counseling experiences, so please leave a comment below. ![school counseling comic about a psychoeducational group](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/537d7c83-485f-4fe2-b8cc-cdfc9aa7865e_image3.jpg) ## Happy Counseling! #### Other Confident Counselors Posts on Group Counseling [Making Counseling Groups Work](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/14/making-counseling-groups-work/) [Organize and Run Successful Groups](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/09/15/small-group-counseling-organize-and-run-successful-groups/) **Categories:** Group Counseling **Tags:** group counseling --- ### [What do you do for school counselor professional development?](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselor-professional-development/) **Published:** February 23, 2018 **Author:** School Counselor Stephanie, Counselor Keri and Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop **Content:** Finding school counselor professional development can be incredibly challenging. Often our districts are thinking about teachers primarily, and we are on our own to find good PD. Vanessa from **School Counseling Confessions** wrote a great post about [pursuing National Board Certification](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/12/07/school-counseling-professional-goals/) and pursuing other sources of school counselor professional development. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## State and National Conferences ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/SchoolCounselorStephanie.png) My go-to for professional development is the state school counseling conferences! They are just the most invigorating and inspiring experiences, and I always come back to campus refreshed and super-excited to try out all best practice techniques I’ve learned! And just in time for all the post-Valentine’s Day heartbreak, here is a [dating violence resource](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Promoting-Healthy-Relationships-Lesson-for-TeensPreteens-2985873) I created from a workshop I attended at a recent state conference. I am so lucky to be in Texas, where we have 2 different organizations providing state conferences for school counselors. So, I attend both, as well as the national American School Counselor Association conference that is held every summer. With many conferences under my belt, I have some tips for [getting the most out of your professional development opportunities](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/2017/06/04/top-ten-tips-summer-counselingteaching-to-dos-attending-counselingteaching-conferences/). Happy Learning! – [School Counselor Stephanie](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## ASCA U ![Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Counselor-Keri-150x150.png)I have really enjoyed all of the specialist training courses I have taken from [ASCA U](http://www.schoolcounselor.org)! The Trauma and Crisis Management Specialist training has been an incredible resource for refreshing and building skills. If you’re a “go at your own pace” kind of learner, these courses are great for school counselor professional development! I also love all of the ASCA webinar series because I get the chance to learn from other counselors around the country during the school year. – Keri at [Counselor Keri](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Specialized Training [![Social Emotional Workshop](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Logo2017-150x150.png)](http://socialemotionalworkshop.com)A couple years back, I had the opportunity to go to a [Social Thinking conference](https://www.socialthinking.com/Conferences) with Michelle Garcia-Winner. I had been a fan of her model and using her resources for quite some time, and seeing her in person really made so many things click. For a number of years, I lived in Boston and had access to some incredible organizations. I did some [trainings](http://mghcme.org/page/cognitive_behavioral_therapy) with Massachusetts General Hospital for cognitive behavioral therapy. They now have some training online that look amazing. Finally, I went through the [PREPaRE training for school crisis and safety teams](https://www.nasponline.org/professional-development/prepare-training-curriculum/about-prepare) that is offered by NASP. It is truly comprehensive and I would recommend it to any district. – Laura from [Social Emotional Workshop](https://socialemotionalworkshop.com) ### What professional development training have you found useful? Comment below! ![school counselor professional development](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/25-1.jpg) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Professional Development **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Keri, professional development, School Counselor Stephanie, Social Emotional Workshop --- ### [Avoiding Pitfalls When a Parent is also a Coworker](https://confidentcounselors.com/when-a-parent-is-a-coworker/) **Published:** February 27, 2018 **Author:** Cynthia Morton **Content:** ![](undefined)One of the challenges that we rarely talk about in our profession is when a parent is also a coworker. Often these relationships are positive or benign, but there are those times when working with the child of a colleague can be frustrating or downright uncomfortable. Case in point, here is an example of a scenario with a coworker who worked in another school in my district. ## My Learning Experience I had arranged a senior meeting with this coworker about her son. At the beginning of this senior meeting, she tells me that she wants to discuss her tenth grader’s schedule for next year. When we successfully finished the conversation about her son, I turned my attention to her daughter and she completely snapped. > How dare you mention your concerns in front of my daughter. I want to see your principal and request another counselor! Now, I have never experienced anyone snapping at me like this before. I have had disgruntled parents, principal complaints, and misunderstandings, but no one has ever asked for another counselor after what seemed to be a pleasant conversation. At this point, I do not know what happened inside of me, but I immediately got up and told the parent to follow me to the principal’s office. In the principal’s office, the parent completely went off about me. When she was done, I made a passionate plea why it was not in the student’s best interest to change their counselor at this point. What came out next shocked me. I looked at the parent and principal and said, > I feel that it is wrong to move these students based on a simple disagreement between two colleagues. Okay, this was a huge risk as my principal often sided with parents on complaints. However, the principal looked at us and then said, > You are right, we should not make a hasty decision and I believe your children’s counselor has their best interest in mind. The parent walked out of the office and it would be another year before she would ever come back to meet with me. The purpose of writing on this subject is to uncover the complexities of working with coworkers and their children. Overall, my experiences with colleagues and their kids have been positive; however, we know that it only takes one conversation turned explosion to ruin this relationship. When I decided to write this post, I wanted to share my tips for this unique relationship, but I also I wanted to hear from other school counselors about their experiences. So, I sent out a survey and asked several questions: ### Questions 1. What grade level do you work with? 2. Do or have you worked with students of your colleagues? 3. When working with a coworker’s child, how do you treat them? 4. Describe one negative experience with a colleague and how you responded (either negatively or positively). 5. Name one tactic school counselors can employ when this relationship is tense or has become negative. Here is the breakdown of the responses from other school counselors: ## Survey Results Most respondents were at the high school level. Almost all had worked with a parent is also a coworker. Respondents split evenly between a tendency to either be more cautious in their treatment of coworker’s children or to treating everyone equally. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Grade-Level.jpg)![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Working-with-Students-of-Colleagues.jpg) ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Tendancies.jpg) After providing this general information, I wanted to know about the experiences school counselors have encountered with their parent-coworker. Here are some experiences they shared. ## Negative Behaviors #### Blame Game A colleague blamed the school counselor for her child’s denial into a summer program after the counselor reported a disciplinary infraction. #### Challenging the School Counselor’s Expertise The parent of one of the students on the counselor’s caseload believed that her son’s potential was enough for college acceptance. The school counselor explained that colleges look at test scores and academic performance and not potential. Parent was not convinced that the counselor was telling her the truth and questioned her expertise. #### Demanding Behaviors A school counseling colleague in another high school “voluntold” the counselor to nominate her child for several scholarships and programs. The school counselor started to avoid her colleague because of the demands. #### Favoritism A coworker wanted his/her child to have a certain teacher, but the school counselor could not make changes without being reprimanded by the principal. The counselor refused to change the schedule. #### Intimidation Tactics An angry coworker wanted the school counselor to write a letter of recommendation immediately for his/her child and give the student a college fee waiver for which the student did not qualify. #### Involving School Administration and Other Colleagues A teacher approached the school counselor about changing his/her child’s schedule. The school counselor worked on the schedule for several days and finally was able to change the student’s schedule. However, the parent came to see the counselor two additional times to have his/her son’s schedule changed again. The second time the coworker asked for a schedule change, the counselor did not change the schedule. Unfortunately, that did not stop the parent and he/she had another teacher reach out to the school counselor about changing the student’s schedule. #### Trash Talking This school counselor works in a small district that offers dual enrollment courses, but not Advanced Placement classes. A high level, outspoken colleague made a comment that his/her student was not afforded the opportunity to take AP courses. The school counselor met with the parent and explained that his/her student was taking dual enrollment classes which are weighted the same as AP classes. Once the parent understood, the negative comments finally ceased. #### Unethical Behavior One school counselor experienced unethical behavior from a colleague when the parent expected that his/her child should be eligible for waivers that the student did not qualify. Following school counselors’ descriptions of strained relationships, I asked if they were willing to share helpful advice for when a relationship with a parent who is also a coworker gets negative. ## When the Parent-Coworker Relationship Turns Negative - **Use transparency in presenting information and make it clear what is expected of students and parents.** - **Always refer to ASCA and your state’s standards and procedures no matter what student or parent you are working with.** - **Remind your colleague of your role as a school counselor.** - **Advocate for your student and try to understand the parent’s perspective.** - **Involve the student as much as possible in decisions.** - **Do not allow a colleague to complain about other colleagues.** - **Show professionalism with all parents and colleagues.** - **Remember to set boundaries with parents early.** - **Keep communication in writing, especially with a tense relationship. Documentation is important!** - **Remind coworkers of your ethical and legal responsibilities to students.** - **Do not allow coworkers to use their position to get favors for their children.** - **Get to know your colleagues and form relationships with them.** I appreciate the great feedback from our school counseling colleagues and I wanted to add one additional tip that I feel could be helpful if this unique relationship becomes strained. Thankfully, I have learned many new skills since I worked with that parent. Since electronic communication is the mode that many parents use to communicate, it is important that we do not allow our own emotions to seep into our electronic correspondences. Parents, even those that are coworkers, will CC or forward our emails to administrators. Here is a format you can use when communicating with parent/colleagues electronically, especially if their communication is blaming or demeaning. This approach is called the [BIFF method](https://www.biffresponse.com/) created by social worker and attorney, Bill Eddy. ## Low Conflict Communication: BIFF After receiving a less than pleasant email from a colleague, refrain from replying instantly. Wait and formulate an email using these four simple steps: 1\. Brief: Do not respond to criticism and keep your responses short to reduce continued angry emails. 2\. Informative: Respond to an email in order to correct inaccurate information. Stick to the facts that set the record straight. 3\. Friendly: Recognize the person’s concern in a friendly manner. You do not have to be over friendly, but avoid being antagonistic. 4\. Firm: Be confident in your response. Tell the person your position or information. If you must respond again, make responses shorter and state the same information. If you receive a nasty email in response using the format above, do not respond. You have stated what you needed to and it is not helpful to spend your time going back around the same mountain so to speak. **Have you worked with a parent is also a coworker?** **Has this relationship ever gotten tense? Share your tips in the comments below!** #### Other Tips for Working with Parents from Confident Counselors and For High School Counselor archive. [7 Simple Ways to Calm an Angry Parent and Improve Communication](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/27/calm-angry-parent/) [Responding to Nasty Emails](http://forhighschoolcounselors.blogspot.com/2013/04/responding-to-nasty-emailsusing-biff.html) [A Tutorial on Responding to High Conflict Parents](http://forhighschoolcounselors.blogspot.com/2014/11/a-tutorial-on-responding-to-high.html) ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Pin-Parent-Coworker-683x1024.png) **Categories:** Parents **Tags:** parents --- ### [Books We Love for School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-book-list/) **Published:** February 25, 2018 **Author:** Pawsitive School Counselor **Content:** **A book is a dream you hold in your hands. – Neil Gaiman** I love this quote because it really does capture the power of books. Books allow us to be curious and explore even the toughest topics. Even though I have over 400 books in my office, I’m often at my local used bookstore or shopping Scholastic sales to get more. Why? Have you ever sat with a student that only answers with “I dunno” or just shrugs at you? Me too! Shut down, quiet clients are tough, but I have found that a good book is an effective way to reach even the most stonewall of students. Simply asking the student “What do you think the character is feeling?” or “What do you think the character should do?”, allows students to discuss topics and feelings in a way that feels safe. Although it’s hard to narrow down my favorite school counseling book titles, I created a list of my favorite titles along with lesson ideas to go with each to really help bring the books to life. I also created these [FREEBIE book conversation cards](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Book-Converstation-Cards-3594217?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Books%20I%20Love) to go along with every book on the list. ## Kindness: We’re All Wonders *by Raquel J. Palacio* ![We are Wonders Bulletin Board](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/64562799-6a59-41e5-bb0e-ebe2a972f5e2_image11.jpg) Did you love the movie Wonder? Check out this beautiful picture book based on the chapter book. **Activity**: Become a certified kind classroom by participating in Random House’s [kindness classroom challenge](https://www.penguin.co.uk/puffin/penguin-schools/wonder-choose-kind-classroom-challenge/). Author and publisher websites are often a great source for ideas and activities. ![../../../Downloads/attachments%20(22)/IMG_8301.JPG](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/5ec67885-ae39-4def-8614-cbc58ac17176_image2.jpg) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Mindset: After The Fall *by Dan Santat* [![After the fall book cover](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/7b0fc379-f149-43fd-9721-3c5a98fbe62b_image14-242x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-book-list/7b0fc379-f149-43fd-9721-3c5a98fbe62b_image14/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/2950c6fc-478b-4fc3-97fa-8cc572f1d2a2_image3-e1519291220394-225x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-book-list/2950c6fc-478b-4fc3-97fa-8cc572f1d2a2_image3/) More than just a play on the adorable classic, **Humpty Dumpty**, [this book](http://afterthefallbook.com/) thoughtfully speaks to getting up after a “fall” or trauma and facing your fears. I love the “hatch” ending, which inspires students to embrace what’s next. **Activity**: Pair with your favorite team activity like the marshmallow tower challenge or [marshmallow sculpture game](http://pawsitiveschoolcounseling.blogspot.com/2016/07/midnight-lesson-idea.html). \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Grief: The Goodbye Book *by Todd Parr* [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/881c36fb-a187-44c1-a2aa-e6197ec7abb8_image4-263x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-book-list/881c36fb-a187-44c1-a2aa-e6197ec7abb8_image4/) [![pet grief book cover](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Pet-Grief-Book-300x231.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-book-list/pet-grief-book/) This beautiful picture book is funny and colorful, making it easy to talk about such a hard topic. **Activity**: This book works to talk about all types of loss. After reading, create a memory book about the lost loved one or [pet](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Remembering-A-Furry-Friend-Pet-Memory-Book-1767503?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Books%20I%20Love). \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![Restart Book Cover](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/c2527ad5-00ac-4fa3-840e-779e0e4acd21_image5.jpg) ## Bullying: Restart *by Gordan Korman* What would you do if you got to restart? The main character in this story seemingly gets an opportunity to do just that. After falling off his roof and waking up with amnesia, he is ready to start again. However, he quickly realizes decisions he made in the past have lasting consequences and implications. This book tackles many topics like friendship, reputation, and peer pressure. **Activity**: This chapter book would be great to read with a book club or lunch bunch. Before having students round-robin read, check out this [great article by Edutopia](https://www.edutopia.org/blog/alternatives-to-round-robin-reading-todd-finley) on alternatives ways to have students read aloud. Between sessions, have your book club complete random acts of kindness and report back. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![The Secrete Olivia Told Me](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/26fcece2-8b14-4341-ba6e-cc937cf693c0_image7.jpg) ## Gossip: The Secret Olivia Told Me *by N. Joy* It’s no surprise this book received a Coretta Scott King Book Honor. The *secret* is represented by a red balloon that continues to get bigger as the book progresses. The simple illustration creates a perfect analogy for rumors and gossip. **Activity**: Play a game of telephone! \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Career: What Does It Mean to Be an Entrepreneur? *by Rana DiOrio* ![What Does it mean to be an entrepreneur?](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/73571ebc-1bee-4757-b3a2-3e3c2f31c39c_image6-e1519291850725.jpg) It’s easy to focus on academic requirements for a job, but this book focuses on the skills and traits you can’t quantify. Our students will have jobs that haven’t even been created yet, so I love the idea of focusing on the character traits needed to be successful in any career. **Activity**: Have students visit your favorite college and career website. Many states have their own, like [collegefortn.org](https://www.collegefortn.org/). \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Teamwork: It Takes A Village *by Hillary Rodham Clinton* [![It takes a village book cover](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/a45f2078-689b-4542-9c91-ffaa83ec65e6_image19-298x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-book-list/a45f2078-689b-4542-9c91-ffaa83ec65e6_image19/) [![Teamwork activities pictures](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/dcb149fe-36b2-4328-a58f-feb2361c2c32_image8-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-book-list/dcb149fe-36b2-4328-a58f-feb2361c2c32_image8/) The author notes that her inspiration was a simple message: “We are all in this together.” The book is poignant and thoughtfully poses the question, “What can we do to change the world?”. **Activity**: Partner with your favorite teamwork game, like [Saving Sam](http://pawsitiveschoolcounseling.blogspot.com/2017/02/saving-sam.html). Did you get a gratitude tree from the Target dollar spot? Repurpose it by having each student write on a leaf a way they can contribute to the class and school community and check out these [ideas from Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/17/5-ways-to-repurpose-your-gratitude-tree/). \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Friendship: Pirate, Viking, & Scientist ***by Jared Chapman*** [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/ba261f88-545f-402e-9ace-404192f48a1a_image20-250x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-book-list/ba261f88-545f-402e-9ace-404192f48a1a_image20/) [![Pirate, Viking, & Scientist Activity](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/b12ea2e9-cedd-4bcb-a86b-410559df48f7_image9-225x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-book-list/b12ea2e9-cedd-4bcb-a86b-410559df48f7_image9/) Pirate is friends with Scientist. Viking is friends with Scientist. Pirate and Viking are not friends! Sound like some of your referrals? I read this book every year and it still hasn’t gotten old. It’s a great way to talk about a friendship of three and feeling stuck in the middle between two friends who don’t get along. **Activity**: Show students this [Bill Nye science experiment on pressure](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDdRNXhIDwA). Debrief by discussing the pressures of friendship. Next, have students create a “formula for friendship” or have partners complete a Venn Diagram ([like the one from Counselor Up!](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Character-Ed-Lesson-Using-Venn-Diagrams-to-Explore-Diversity-1826610?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Books%20I%20Love)) about each other. You can also check out the [activity pack](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Pirate-Viking-Scientist-Book-Activity-Pack-1687004?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Books%20I%20Love) I created to go with this book. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/b9b80a3a-48c1-445d-a117-ec2aa4137b4a_image10-e1519292454176-225x300.jpg) ## Tolerance: All American Boys *by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely* This is one of the most powerful books I have read in the past year. I’m not the only one moved. This ***New York Times Best Seller*** has received many accolades. Told from two different points of view, the main characters struggle with hard questions about tolerance, acceptance, and racial tension. **Activity**: Have students participate in the [cross the line activity](https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwimnai86rzYAhWG7IMKHZHrB8sQFggpMAA&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmy.vanderbilt.edu%2Fvucept%2Ffiles%2F2014%2F08%2FCrossing-the-Line-Activity.pdf&usg=AOvVaw0djXx7iHcKAsLBU) or work with your PTA to bring [Challenge Day](https://www.challengeday.org/) to your school. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Perseverance: Three Ninja Pigs *by Corey Rosen Schwartz* ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/9beb1c84-cce1-4af9-87e1-3c9ee96fd656_image12-e1519292495920-225x300.jpg) A hilarious play on the classic **Three Little Pigs**, this story is about three ninjas that need to stop a bully. **Activity**: Get students excited by watching [Ormie the Pig](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NRsb8i5pNZ0). Next, challenge them to this arm strengthening challenge (bonus you get to sneak in a workout!). Students hold out their arms at shoulder height. They do each of these exercises three times in a row. The first set should be slow, the second a medium speed, and the last set as fast as you can without losing form. 1. Circle wrists clockwise leading with the pinky finger. 2. Circle wrists counterclockwise. 3. Palms down, flick flingers as if you have water on them and you are trying to get someone wet. 4. Repeat finger flicks with palms up. 5. Make the smallest elbow bend you can and straighten arms. Need more? Have students draw their own perseverance pig who represents a personal goal and check out my [activity pack](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Three-Ninja-Pigs-Activity-Guide-a-lesson-on-perseverance-test-prep-and-more-1792121). [![perseverance pig example](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/27e3eb33-0936-4170-a8df-5d03154ad7e1_image13-225x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-book-list/27e3eb33-0936-4170-a8df-5d03154ad7e1_image13/) [![three ninja pigs packet cover](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/dff879ab-8e40-4cb3-931b-71223884d5e6_image22-300x233.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-book-list/dff879ab-8e40-4cb3-931b-71223884d5e6_image22/) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Courage: Brave *by Stacy McAnulty* ![brave book and dog on bed](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/e8760008-2219-413c-af71-463b4e9d2b10_image21-246x300.jpg) Being brave is more than just facing your fears. Explore what it means to be brave with this picture book guaranteed to make you smile. **Activity**: Follow [@stacymcanulty](https://twitter.com/stacymcanulty) on Twitter. Ask students to complete the sentence “I am brave when..” by drawing or writing. Share their answers with the hashtag #IamBraveWhen. Find scraps of cloth or fabric at your local Goodwill, Old Time Pottery, etc. and have students create their own capes. If your school allows, have students dress up like their favorite hero. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/df123bb5-bd1b-4ce2-9dd8-1c58beb94b65_image15-e1519292542726-225x300.jpg) ## Self-Esteem: Beautiful *by Stacy McAnulty* Unlike her book Brave, all the characters in this book are female. The story reminds me of a “Dove” commercial that empowers girls to look past their outer qualities and focus on intrinsic strengths that make them truly beautiful. **Activity**: Cut out paper hearts and have students write down one thing they love about themselves, then use the hearts to create a bulletin board. ![../../../Downloads/attachments%20(21)/IMG_8289.jpg](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/e77ab82a-d739-4b63-9167-695cdc021cfe_image23.jpg) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Perseverance, Problem Solving, Opportunities #### What Do You Do with A Problem? What Do You Do With An Idea? What Do You Do With a Chance? #### *By Kobi Yamada* [![What would you do with an idea?](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/1940fea4-6753-4882-bded-770dd5caba37_image17-300x225.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-book-list/1940fea4-6753-4882-bded-770dd5caba37_image17/) [![What would you do with a problem?](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/8e974e4d-4f1f-46cd-8bed-c04e7a591cbf_image16-e1519292568890-225x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-book-list/8e974e4d-4f1f-46cd-8bed-c04e7a591cbf_image16/) These picture books are exquisite, eloquent, heartfelt, and transcend age. Reading them is like watching a powerful short film. **Activity**: Host a [genius hour](http://www.geniushour.com/)! Prompt your students: “If you had the **chance** to solve any **problem**, what would your **idea** be?” **Follow up**: “What do you need to make that idea a reality?” Have students create a visual representation of their idea by making a picture collage from old magazines, write about it, or use iPads to interview each other. What does it take to make their dream a reality? [Watch this Ted Ed video. ](http://ed.ted.com/lessons/richard-st-john-8-traits-of-successful-people) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Professional Development: Impact Therapy: The Courage To Counsel *by Ed Jacobs* ![Impact Therapy Courage to counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/9a59c843-be67-4c77-b254-ae4342c4eea5_image18-e1519292627395-225x300.jpg) This book empowers counselors to have fun in sessions, engage in powerful solution-focused techniques, and break the rules, like interrupting the client. **Activity**: Pick up some cheap props, like a chair or butcher paper, to try out these active, yet brief ideas. To see the strategies come to life check out the [Impact Therapy YouTube Channel](https://www.youtube.com/user/ImpactTherapy/videos). \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] #### What books made it onto your school counseling book list? What activities do you pair with them? **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Your Office **Tags:** book recommendations, supplies --- ### [Me First! Teach Social Skills Through Games](https://confidentcounselors.com/teaching-social-skills-games/) **Published:** March 6, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Up **Content:** What kid doesn’t love a game? What kid loves a lecture? When planning my counseling lessons, I like to think about ways I can teach social skills that engage students and puts them in charge of their learning. Games are the perfect tool for just that. # **Trivia Games** [![career trivia game cover](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/career-trivia-game-300x300.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Career-Trivia-Game-1208161?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Social%20Skills%20Games%203.6.18)There’s a reason that your local pub has trivia night once a month – it’s fun. Whether you prefer a Jeopardy-style game or a more Q&A type, make a list of 30 or so questions that have to do with the topic you are learning. Trivia isn’t just for review, I like to do a [career trivia](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Career-Trivia-Game-1208161) where the kids are learning about careers as they are playing. They have to work with their team to find the right answer and even then they get some answers wrong. Another favorite is to draw grids of dots on the board. If a team answers the question correctly, they can connect two dots. If this closes off a box, they can earn a point. The same works for tic-tac-toe. Answer a question correctly, and take a turn. # **Cooperative Games** In this type of game, the skills are learned in the actual playing. So many social skills are embedded in games – turn taking, emotion management, good sportsmanship – just to name a few. For this, you can google icebreaker games but here are a few of my favorites: ### The Wind Blows Sit in a circle with one person in the middle and start with the counselor. Name one trait or fact about you – bonus if it’s not physical. Everyone who has the same trait or fact gets up and changes seats. So much fun and a good way to get to know each other. ### Tower of Truth Give students a set of materials that could feasibly make a tower (ex: newspaper, tape, and stapler). Challenge them to make the tallest tower they can that will stand on its own. This is so much fun and requires a lot of teamwork! ### Factory Line This is fun to teach the skills of negotiation. Challenge the class to create a product. I always had them make a letter of the word Cooperate – each class in a grade level made one letter and I made the rest so when we were done, we had the whole grade level. One group will have a job that must be done cooperatively. There is a foreman group that will make the decisions. The foreman group has to decide what the other groups’ jobs will be – cutting, drawing, decorating, etc. There is a lot of hardcore negotiating that goes on her. **Tip** – check your social studies curriculum, this goes nicely with the unit on job sharing. # **Center Games** If you teach counseling lessons on a regular basis and are thinking about how you can make lesson planning a little easier, let me suggest centers. One of my amazing colleagues made a [video](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/stop-planning-and-start-playing-learning-stations-for-school-counselors) about how she did this in her lessons. As one of her centers, she used simple board games to allow kids a chance to practice their social skills. She found that rotating around the room, she was able to scaffold their social interactions and support their learning even more. This is possible even if you don’t have your own classroom! # **Problem Solving Games** Working together to solve a problem teaches social skills such as explaining your thinking, listening, being a leader, and being a follower. Ideas include puzzles, word riddles, and building blocks. We recently discovered [Kanoodle](http://amzn.to/2Gsa5zl) and think it’s so fun! To play, you use picture directions to create different shapes using the interlocking pieces. A friend of mine uses building blocks in small containers. Each container has the same number of pieces in it and she gives students an idea or topic (ex: what machine could help you be more responsible?) and students can create whatever they want to describe their idea. # **Practice Games** [![roll away worries game cover](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/roll-away-worries-300x300.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Stress-Management-Roll-Away-the-Worries-1202902?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Social%20Skills%20Games%203.6.18)Practice games support learning by repetition. A favorite of mine is to take a drawing of the six sides of the dice and write calm down strategies next to each one. Students play in small groups and each person rolls the die one time. Whatever they roll, they practice that skill and cross off the number. The object of the game is to roll all 6 numbers. However, if you roll a number twice, you still have to practice the strategy. You can check out my [Roll Away the Worries](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Stress-Management-Roll-Away-the-Worries-1202902) game for a visual. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] My Kindergarten daughter reminds me all the time, “playing is how kids learn.” How do you teach social skills through play? ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Social-Skills-Pin.png) **Check out [these other activities](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/craftivities/) for low-prep counseling activities that use supplies you already have in your office.** **Categories:** Counseling **Tags:** games, social skills --- ### [75 Free School Counseling Resources](https://confidentcounselors.com/freeschoolcounselingresources/) **Published:** March 4, 2018 **Author:** Speckled Moose Counseling **Content:** A day in the life of a school counselor is never easy. We never know what’s going to come our way, and as confident counselors, we like to have resources at our fingertips. I stay efficient and organized with things like an easy reference phone list, a binder of community resources and referrals, and an online list of resources. To help you maximize your time, resources, and budget, compiled below is a list of 75 free school counseling resources to help you support students and families. ## **Attendance** - [Attendance Works](http://www.attendanceworks.org) provides toolkits, videos, and webinars to help you improve attendance. ## **Autism** - Sesame Street shares great [materials on autism](http://autism.sesamestreet.org). I love their character, Julia, and there are videos, tips to support families, and daily routine cards. - Help promote student understanding of autism with these [awareness worksheets](http://autismeducators.com/browse-worktasks/free/autism-awareness-free-worksheets-to-promote-understanding) from Autism Educators. - Grab some [emotions picture cards](http://www.educateautism.com/free-materials-and-downloads.html/item/basic-faces-emotions-pecs.html) to use with your students from Educate Autism. ## **Behavior Interventions and Crisis Intervention** - Check out CPI’s [Top 10 De-escalation Tips](http://jpschools.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Nonviolent-Crisis-Intervention-pdf.pdf). - PBIS World provides [tiered interventions](http://www.pbisworld.com) for a multitude of behaviors. ## **Bullying and online safety** - [Pacer’s National Bullying Prevention Center](http://www.pacer.org/bullying/classroom/all-in/) includes videos and lesson plans for multiple grade levels. - [Stopbullying.gov](https://www.stopbullying.gov/) provides statistics, tips for children/caregivers, and videos. - Teaching Tolerance has a large list of lessons on [digital interactions and communities](https://www.tolerance.org/classroom-resources/tolerance-lessons/participating-in-digital-communities). - Find more information about helping kids stay safe online at [NetSmartz](http://www.netsmartz.org/Educators). - The Ophelia Project provides great lessons on [relational aggression](http://www.opheliaproject.org/girls.html). - Receive [free video kits](https://www.tolerance.org/classroom-resources/film-kits), including the DVD, *Bullied,* at Teaching Tolerance. - Teaching Tolerance has a timely guide for administrators, counselors, and teachers titled [Responding to Bias and Hate free guide. ](https://www.tolerance.org/magazine/publications/responding-to-hate-and-bias-at-school) - Look no further than GLSEN for No-Name Calling week [lesson plans](https://www.glsen.org/no-name-calling-week/#lessons). - Terrific [K-12 digital citizenship curriculum](https://www.commonsense.org/education/scope-and-sequence) can be found at Common Sense Education. ## **Counselors of TpT** - Meet the Counselors of Tpt by viewing this [e-book](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meet-the-Counselors-of-TpT-Ebook-2017-2018-Back-to-School-3251473), and snag a freebie on every page. Resources for counselors, created by counselors. ## **Family-related issues** - Sesame Street i[ncarceration toolkit](https://www.sesamestreet.org/toolkits/incarceration) has videos, activities, and caregiver tips. - [Children in Change](http://familychildrenservice.nonprofitoffice.com/vertical/sites/%7B180D3755-B455-4299-8D88-544431B73DE8%7D/uploads/%7BE278FB8B-6117-4BFD-BAA5-97832071236F%7D.PDF) group curriculum is a great resource. - Sesame Street [videos and activities](http://sesamestreetformilitaryfamilies.org) for military families is another great resource. ## **Grief** - Sesame Street [grief toolkit](https://www.sesamestreet.org/toolkits/grief) includes video clips, caring cards, feelings journal, & a caregiver guide. - Check out the amazing [Hospice Grief Guide](http://hospicefoundation.org/getattachment/End-of-Life-Support-and-Resources/Grief-Support/Children-and-Grief/Grief-at-School-A-Guide-for-School-Personnel/Grief-at-School2.pdf.aspx). - The [Dougy Center](https://www.dougy.org/grief-resources/) provides grief activities, podcasts, and tips by developmental level. - Full Circle, a not-for-profit in Virginia, provides a comprehensive [Grief Resource Manual](http://www.fullcirclegc.org/manual)**.** ## **Growth Mindset** - Find [free courses and presentations](https://www.mindsetkit.org) for professional development at Mindset Kit. - The [Mojo Show video series](https://ideas.classdojo.com/b/growth-mindset) on Class Dojo is awesome – and each video is only 5 minutes. - Nothing beats a [Don’t Give Up video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pWp6kkz-pnQ) with Bruno Mars and Sesame Street … - Except for maybe [Will.i.am singing](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cyVzjoj96vs) with the puppets. - Or this [Power of Yet](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLeUvZvuvAs) video (I realize I might have a Sesame Street problem. They’re just so good!) ## **Kindness** - Stock up on [K-12 lessons](https://www.randomactsofkindness.org/for-educators) at Random Acts of Kindness. - Check out this [Mindfulness-based Kindness curriculum](https://centerhealthyminds.org/join-the-movement/sign-up-to-receive-the-kindness-curriculum) targeting preschool students. - Sesame Street brought more kindness to [Season 47](http://www.sesameworkshop.org/season47/about-the-show/episode-descriptions/). I can’t help but love this [Elmo’s World](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNNcpAcF0GM). - Life Vest [Kindness Boomerang “One Day”](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwAYpLVyeFU) is a video that students love. - Ripple Kindness Project, out of Australia, shares great [kindness printables](http://ripplekindness.org/resources/free-printouts/). ## **LGBTQ** - [The Trevor Project](https://www.thetrevorproject.org/education/lifeguard-workshop/#sm.01td31rn1418ezo10ww1kmrb5tuud) provides free online course modules for educators and lesson plans to support LGBTQ youth. - Safe Schools Coalition shares [free lessons](http://safeschoolscoalition.org/blackboard-teachers.html) as well. - It’s important for transgender students to [know their rights](https://transequality.org/sites/default/files/docs/kyr/KYR-school-June17.pdf), but it’s important that we know them, too. - Here’s a [guide for supporting transgender students in schools](https://www.genderspectrum.org/staging/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Schools-in-Transition-2015.pdf). - This [model district policy](https://transequality.org/issues/resources/model-district-policy-on-transgender-and-gender-nonconforming-students) on transgender and gender nonconforming students is an incredible resource. ## **Mindfulness** - [The Calm app](https://www.calm.com) provides lots of options for mindfulness and meditation. - [Mind Yeti ](https://www.mindyeti.com)app brings you more mindfulness options. - Hit the pause button with the [Stop, Breathe, Think app](https://www.stopbreathethink.com) with a guided meditation that promotes compassion. - [Go Noodle](https://www.gonoodle.com) shares fun movement breaks and mindfulness exercises. - More mindfulness and relaxation videos can be found over at [Cosmic Kids Yoga youtube channel](https://www.youtube.com/user/CosmicKidsYoga). - Check out the [videos](https://www.mindfulschools.org/category/video/) on mindfulness at Mindful Schools. ## **Self-care** - It seems like we all need a bright moment in our day. Receive a daily positive message and encouragement with a [Shine text](https://www.shinetext.com). - The [self-care starter kit](https://socialwork.buffalo.edu/resources/self-care-starter-kit.html) will get you thinking … and healing. ## **Self-Injury** - Cornell Self-Injury and Recovery Research and Resources is a goldmine of [information for families and professionals](http://selfinjury.bctr.cornell.edu/resources.html), including informational printables. - [Info guides](http://sioutreach.org) for families, school professionals, and mental health professionals can be found at SiOS. ## **Social Emotional Learning** - The [SEL lessons](https://www.tolerance.org/classroom-resources/lessons?f%5B0%5D=facet_lesson_subject%3A64) at Teaching Tolerance can make weekly planning easier. - Sesame Street [Breathe, Think, Do app](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/app-reviews/breathe-think-do-with-sesame) for devices provides an awesome way for kids to work through 5 scenarios, deep breathe, and problem solve. - There’s a lot to learn from the Howard B. Wigglebottom [books, lessons, and activities](https://wedolisten.org/media/). - Help students develop emotional regulation with the [Settle Your Glitter](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/app-reviews/settle-your-glitter) app. - Keep building emotional awareness with the [Touch and Learn Emotions app](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/app-reviews/touch-and-learn-emotions). - [Character Playbook](http://www.characterplaybook.com) has cool visual stories on healthy relationships, SEL, and positive character development for secondary students. - Build relationships with the [Positivity Project](https://posproject.org). This school-wide program emphasizes #otherpeoplematter by focusing on 24 character strengths stemming from positive psychology. - Find more K-12 [character education lessons](http://character.org/lessons/lesson-plans/#hs) from character.org. - Check out the empowerment and confidence-building resources at the [Inner Rainbow Project](https://www.innerrainbowproject.com/resources/). - This [free K-12 curriculum](https://www.jesselewischooselove.org) from the Jesse Lewis Choose Love Movement ™ helps students become “connected, resilient, and empowered.” Who doesn’t love that? - Peer Mediators provides a [free curriculum ](http://www.peermediators.org/resources/manuals)that includes program implementation guide, trainer’s manual, student workbook. - [Empathy videos](https://ideas.classdojo.com/b/empathy) at Class Dojo are a hit with students. ## **Suicide Prevention** - [Act on FACTS Suicide Prevention Training](http://sptsuniversity.org) is a helpful 2-hour online training. - The [model school district policy on suicide prevention](https://afsp.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Model-Policy_FINAL.pdf) is also an incredible resource. ## **Substance Abuse** - NYS OASAS (Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services put together a video to address stigma titled [Reversing the Stigma](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gnp1sjUdCkM). - The National Center on Addiction and Substance abuse provides [videos, slideshows, and statistical information. ](https://www.centeronaddiction.org/newsroom/multimedia-library) - Grab [downloadable ebooks and guides to support parents](https://drugfree.org/resources/) from Partnership for Drug-Free Kids. ## **Trauma, Abuse, & Safety Prevention** - I might print out this [Child Trauma Toolkit](http://www.nctsnet.org/sites/default/files/assets/pdfs/Child_Trauma_Toolkit_Final.pdf) for all my educator colleagues because it discusses the psychological and behavioral impact of trauma, and provides suggestions for educators on how to help. - Find hotline/chat support, parent/student safety & prevention information, including social media safety, over at [RAINN](https://www.rainn.org) (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network). - The [Child Abuse Library Online](https://calio.org) (CALiO™) is an incredible resource that is freely accessible to anyone. - Looking for something to supplement a presentation? Check out the p[resentation graphics](https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/acestudy/ACE_graphics.html) on ACES. - National Children’s Advocacy Center [Virtual Training Center](http://www.nationalcac.org/online-training-catalog/) provides online training on a variety of topics related to abuse and maltreatment of youth. - KidSmartz brings more options for [safety and prevention lessons.](http://www.kidsmartz.org/TeachingTools/Kit) - Sesame Street shares videos, activities, and coping skills ideas for [traumatic experiences](https://sesamestreetincommunities.org/topics/traumatic-experiences/). - The National Human Trafficking Hotline provides training videos and a [resource guide for schools. ](https://humantraffickinghotline.org/resources/human-trafficking-americas-schools) - [Complex Trauma: Facts for Educators](http://www.nctsn.org/sites/default/files/assets/pdfs/complext_trauma_facts_educators_final.pdf) should be in everyone’s resource library. It offers concrete suggestions as to how students can be supported. - This [crisis resource guide](http://www.childrenshospital.org/centers-and-services/programs/a-_-e/boston-childrens-hospital-neighborhood-partnerships-program/resources) provides information on supporting youth in a variety of crisis situations. Do you have a great free resource for counselors that I missed? Don’t keep it to yourself – comment below! **Definitely pin this one!** ![75 Free School Counseling Resources](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/75-free-resources-pinterest.jpg) **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Counseling, Popular Posts **Tags:** free resources --- ### [Therapeutic Art: Counseling through Creating](https://confidentcounselors.com/art-therapy-counseling-through-creating/) **Published:** March 1, 2018 **Author:** Nicole Batiste **Content:** If you’re like me, you have a diverse caseload of kids that learn the social-emotional skills we want to teach them in different ways. We counselors can’t seem to get enough of finding new and creative ways to engage our kids in therapy. After countless hours planning and prepping, I’ve found a couple simple truths for my work: 1. Preparation is MORE than half the battle. 2. Teaching in therapy has to be exciting. 3. Great things happen in groups. 4. Art supplies are your friend. I’m sure I’m not saying anything new, but often I think it can be a task within a task to make great therapy happen. In lots of trial and error, I’ve discovered a secret weapon, therapeutic art activities. Unfortunately, I was always intimidated by the thought of facilitating these activities because my artistic ability was non-existent. Research suggests there is a direct correlation between the creative arts and health outcomes when used in a therapeutic setting. Experience suggests AMAZING healing can happen with children when you combine a caring helping professional and some art supplies. If your school is anything like the norm, there is a huge focus on group counseling because of its outcomes for children. Crossing art and group counseling can be a jackpot for school counselors. Therapeutic art activities in group counseling can be useful working with children struggling with: - Trauma - Anxiety - Depression - Suicidal Ideations - Impulse control/ ADHD - Social skills deficits - Self esteem - AND MORE So what’s next? How do we tackle art therapy sans the artists? Here’s the key. It’s all about creation, an end product that requires some reflection and conversation to get there. Below are some key steps to take to have a great counseling group using art. ## Counsel two birds with one stone Select children with similar issues and create a group. This builds empathy, a circle of support, and strengths for the members of the group. This also helps you plan activities more efficiently. ## Prepare This is the part that’s going to take some creativity and planning. There are many resources available to help you with this. [Hubforhelpers](http://hubforhelpers.com), [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=art%20therapy%20activities&rs=typed&term_meta[]=art%7Ctyped&term_meta[]=therapy%7Ctyped&term_meta[]=activities%7Ctyped), and [Teachers Pay Teachers](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/) can be amazing resources to help you get started with your art activities. Be sure your activities require coloring, cutting, gluing, or painting. This excites students and prompts them to open up! ## Break the Ice It’s important we start our therapy groups with a fun way to get to know group members. We never want to intimidate members with asking for too much from them too soon. I like to start with simple [icebreakers](https://insight.typepad.co.uk/40_icebreakers_for_small_groups.pdf). Kids are always ready to go after setting the stage with one of these activities and they require little prep from the counselor. ## First, Go Low Unfortunately, there is a stigma attached to counseling and it doesn’t take children long to figure that out. One of the goals of counseling should be to engage children in sessions so that they actually enjoy the therapeutic process. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/55c03a8c-3d0e-4509-84c7-5966b9cbb5de_image2.png) A part of this is eliminating the risk of that very first session. Your first group should involve more art than counseling. Give kids a chance to get comfortable getting to know each other and beginning to use pictures and colors in therapy. Try either a [Get to Know Me Banner](http://www.hubforhelpers.com/product/get-to-know-me-banner) or the [Power of Color Activity](https://www.hubforhelpers.com/product/the-power-of-color) ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/72827132-0fdb-4179-a6e0-39f66942e02c_image1.jpg) ## Be a Member and a Facilitator Whatever activity you’ve planned for your kids, join them! I like doing this because it shows your group members that the drawing does not have to be perfect. It’s also notable that members feel more comfortable when everyone is seen as equals in the group. Be a facilitator as well, once kids pick up art supplies, have your discussions ready! Discussion questions should always be relevant to the activity. It’s also helpful after some time to let others come up with discussion questions after previewing the activity. ## Differentiate That may sound a little teacher-ish, but a part of providing equity to our kids is giving all children the opportunity to create something great in art therapy. It’s helpful to bring along stickers, cutouts, a print out of some symbols, and for the group to brainstorm what they can draw. This allows your kiddos that are not so comfortable drawing an opportunity to create. ## Share, Praise, and Post By the time you’ve completed an activity, you have a couple of great options. Wrap up questions allow members to reflect on one or two things they learned or thought were important. Allow members to share their creations and receive praise and positive feedback from other members. If it’s an activity the group created together, POST IT! Kids feel proud when they see something they created on display for others to see. ## Takeaways Combine group counseling with drawing, painting or creating. Don’t over think it! #### Requires planning It is moving from discussing emotions to creating something that represents emotions. #### So Beneficial All research suggests it’s effective for the treatment of a range of presenting problems. #### Use in Groups or Individual Counseling Groups are always great because kiddos can practice social skills and experience group success and approval from members but art activities can be used in your one on one sessions as well. #### Engages Students A well thought out therapeutic art activity will excite children about working through some tough topics, it will also foster a student’s opportunity to achieve success. This is extremely helpful for our kiddos that receive little academic success. #### It’s a Coping Skill In and of itself, creation is a coping skill. Children that struggle with anxiety, trauma or depression will feel more relaxed after your session. #### What therapeutic art activities do you use in counseling? How has it helped your students? Check out the [Confident Counselors Series](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/craftivities/) of counseling activities using art and office supplies you already have in your office! **Categories:** Counseling, Popular Posts **Tags:** art therapy, counseling activities, crafts --- ### [How do you manage relational aggression?](https://confidentcounselors.com/manage-relational-aggression/) **Published:** March 8, 2018 **Author:** School Counselor Stephanie, The Counseling Teacher Brandy and Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor and 1 more **Content:** Relational aggression can quickly take up a lot of a school counselor’s time and leave young girls frustrated and hurt. We’ve all had crying girls in our office trying to decipher the nuance of the slight that occurred. The silver lining is that it does provide us with regular opportunities to work on healthy relationships and communication skills. Regular practice has left some Confident Counselors with tips for how they manage the girl drama. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Conflict Resolution Skills ![school counselor stephanie logo](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/SchoolCounselorStephanie.png)Girl Groups! Of course, there are many ways to deal with relational aggression (RA), but running [girl empowerment counseling groups](https://youthlight.com/product.php?id=3281) is my favorite! Since so many, but not all, incidents of RA come from girls, a 6-8 session group that teaches students the basics of conflict resolution, leadership skills, how to handle rumors, and managing friendships is a surefire way to prevent future incidents of RA. Another prevention technique is to address the 4 steps of conflict resolution: ignore, walk away, “I” message, tell an adult. At my school, in each guidance lesson, we do a role play to demo these steps. Then we give a brief commentary on how the 4 CR steps can help you avoid relational aggression. A final important part of dealing with RA in schools is to have a protocol in place for students to report RA to campus admin so the perpetrators can be disciplined by admin…and then counseled by you! – [School Counselor Stephanie](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/)[![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/90e0b772-aa20-4e4a-ac5e-fbfc570f2de6_image4-234x300.jpg)](https://youthlight.com/product.php?id=3281) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Self-Reflection ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/round-logo-solid-black-150x150.jpg)In addition to classroom lessons on conflict resolution, we usually end up needing to run small groups for girls on relational aggression. Our 6th-grade girls tend to have the most need for the groups while it gets progressively better each year. I like to use a [friendship scale](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Friendship-Activities-1772908?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Relational%20Aggression) to have students assess their own friendships skills. It’s important for them to realize that we are all a work in progress and we can continue to work on and improve our relationship skills throughout our lives. The friendship continuum has the “healthy friend” on one side of the scale with the “frenemy” on the other end. Sometimes unhealthy behaviors are disguised and not easily recognized. Using very specific examples of healthy and unhealthy behaviors, students get an idea of where they fall on the continuum. The goal is to allow students to self-reflect without pointing fingers at them. – [The Counseling Teacher Brandy](http://thecounselingteacher.blogspot.com/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Friend-or-Frenemy.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Friendship-Activities-1772908?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Relational%20Aggression) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Tiered Support ![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg)We handle relational aggression in a variety of ways. As a whole school intervention, we teach guidance lessons on friendship, bullying, kindness, and problem-solving skills. We role play situations and challenge students to solve them without hurting anyone’s feelings or making the issue worse. With students who need a little more help, we run [small groups](http://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/2017/03/girls-group-interactive-book.html) for about eight weeks to help solidify their understanding of the concepts. For students who are frequently involved in instances of relational aggression despite the whole group and small group lessons, we work with them one-on-one. We try to help get to the root of the issue. Then we role play and practice controlling themselves in a more direct setting. – [Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Friend-or-Frenemy-1.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Friendship-Book-Friend-or-Frenemy-Healthy-Friendships-Girls-Group-3069620?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Relational%20Aggression) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Looking Deeper ![Mental Fills on TPT](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/mental-fills.jpg)As everyone knows, working with girl drama is emotionally taxing. It is can be difficult to referee, quickly resolve, and becomes disruptive to our schedule. My least favorite part is when it opens old teenage wounds, making it even more challenging to be objective. A popular strategy focusing on the different roles each person plays in relational aggression, (i.e., aggressor, the victim, and the bystander) is a helpful educational tool. But what this concept fails to address, which has positive impacts if recognized early on, is the actual underlying trigger to toxic behaviors. Strong feelings of jealousy, hurt, and fear of abandonment commonly ignite perceived rejection, which if disregarded long enough inflame into drama behaviors. Providing a supportive environment where these vulnerable feelings may be identified, expressed, and validated plays more of an influence at regulating emotions and unhealthy behaviors than lecturing on interpersonal dynamics and social problem solutions alone. The bottom line is both rejection and perceived rejection hurts. The most impactful tool for aiding healing and combating drama is simply being present, empathizing, and validating one’s experience. – [Robyn: Mental Fills](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mental-Fills/Category/Girl-Drama-315830) [![girls group activities poster](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Stirring-the-Drama-Pot.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bully-and-Relational-DRAMA-Activties-for-Girls-Groups-1692152?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Relational%20Aggression) ### How do you help girls move on to healthier communication and manage unnecessary drama? ![Girl Drama Conversation Pin](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/1-2.png) **Categories:** Counseling, Counselor Chats **Tags:** bullying, friendship, Mental Fills, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, relational aggression, School Counselor Stephanie, The Counseling Teacher Brandy --- ### [Tips for Guidance Lessons for Special Needs Students](https://confidentcounselors.com/guidance-lessons-special-needs-students/) **Published:** March 9, 2018 **Author:** Little Miss Counselor, Carol Miller Counseling Essentials and Counselor Up **Content:** Just like classroom teachers, it is important that we are considering and differentiating our teaching and support for students with special needs. As a school counselor, it can be challenging to plan for the variety of needs you might have in a class you don’t see frequently. Let’s see how some counselors structure guidance lessons for special needs students. Share your tips in the comments. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] # Routines [![Little Miss Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/13814598_984575921664069_217302344_n-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor)Having a consistent routine is a strategy I use when I teach self-contained classes. This helps students who have difficulty breaking from the normal routine know what to expect. My routine consists of starting out with a greeting. Many of my special education classes are working with children ages 3-6 years old with a range of disabilities, but many of them are non-verbal. I personally like to give each child a high five. Then, we dance to a song and listen to a story on the SMARTboard. After the story, we transition to a table for an activity. I like to engage my students through crafts where they can practice fine motor skills. Our school occupational therapist loves it too! My favorite activities include using giant tweezers, clay mats, simple puzzles, and sensory play. Here’s my favorite [sensory activity with sand](https://www.learning4kids.net/2012/01/01/sensory-play-with-sand/). – [Little Miss Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] # Repetition [![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)](http://www.counselorup.com)Don’t forget that repetition is good! A lot of counselors try to teach different lessons every time. However, for students with special needs, repetition can be helpful in mastering a concept. I usually work with the teacher to decide what to repeat in a lesson (concepts) and what to refresh (a song or book). When in a pinch, many of my special education classes are thrilled to do the same lesson twice. Rebecca at [Counselor Up](https://www.counselorup.com/) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] # Plan & Move [![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg)](http://bit.ly/290jQIg)We do not have any self-contained special education classrooms at my school. All students are in co-taught classrooms where the special education teacher differentiates the learning for those students who need it. With that said, my lessons for students with special needs often occur in small groups. Typically I am teaching social skills and working to meet IEP goals, however, I do many counseling lessons in our time together. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Self-Control-Lesson-300x300.jpg) Having a **well-planned lesson that allows students movement** is key. Students that sit still and work quietly often are not as engaged as those who move around, talk to partners, go to the board, or demonstrate learning with experiential learning. If I am working within the classroom, I incorporate movement as well and will break students into pre-assigned groups. Allowing students to group themselves adds extra stress to students, so knowing who to partner students with ahead of time, alleviates that anxiety. It also makes sure that every student is accounted for and has someone to work with. My favorite lesson is this one on [self-control](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Control-Character-Trait-Lesson-3457175?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Sped%20Guidance%20Lessons%203.9.2018). – [Carol Miller – The Middle School Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![coffee convo: sped classes](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/5-1.png) **Check out more [Confident Counselors Conversations!](https://confidentcounselors.com/?s=conversations)** **Categories:** Class Lessons, Counselor Chats **Tags:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials, CC tips, classroom lessons, Counselor Up, Little Miss Counselor, special education --- ### [5 School Counseling Activities Using Dominoes](https://confidentcounselors.com/dominoes-in-school-counseling/) **Published:** March 12, 2018 **Author:** Little Miss Counselor **Content:** Who loves dominoes? No, I don’t mean the pizza but the traditional game with black dots on white rectangular game pieces. For the price of a box of pizza, you can use dominoes in school counseling in these 5 creative ways. # Icebreakers Flip dominoes upside down and have students choose one. Then they count the total number of dots to determine what question they will answer. It’s fun, easy, and incorporates math. It’s a 3-way win! # Cooperative Domino Line-Up ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/58d24e6e-aa46-4734-842c-fbe0ec493a89_pasted20image200-225x300.png) I’ve used this with kids of all ages to learn how to work together, manage frustration, and take turns. With younger kids, I like to do this activity in smaller groups either during a lesson or group counseling. With older children, it’s more challenging to make the dominoes line up as a whole group. The purpose is to make a line of standing dominoes. Each student receives 3 dominoes and lines them up one at a time. Sounds simple, but dominos knock down easily. It’s important to process this activity afterward and ask those essential questions such as: ***How did you encourage your teammates when the dominoes fell down?*** ***What did you do to manage your frustration and still show cooperation?*** ***If this was a test on perseverance and friendship, how did you do?*** Use dominoes as a counseling metaphor. Have the student line up a few dominoes or watch one of those [cool YouTube clips](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lo6x4eulY9g) that shows thousands of dominoes falling down by a simple nudge. Explain that when people make the wrong choice, such as lying, it leads to more lies. Metaphors that children can experience themselves are far more powerful than simply explaining the ripple effect of an action. # Resilience![](undefined) ![dominoes knocked down](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/dominoes-pic-2-225x300.png)Dominoes also a great way to teach the metaphor of resilience. I love to tell my kiddos that when you get knocked down, get back up! Spread out the dominoes leaving the blank side up. Ask students to guess what number is on the other side. After a few trials explain that we can look at people and make judgments but we really don’t know just by looking. # Kindness Teach kindness and the effect that one person can have in creating a “domino effect” of compassionate actions or words by writing kind messages on the plain backside of the domino. Use thin erasable markers so you can do it time and time again. # Social Skills For this one, I created my own game that you can print and laminate. I replaced the dots with pictures that demonstrate 7 different ways to be friendly. It’s called [Dominoes: Game and Mini Lesson on How to Be Friendly](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Dominoes-Game-and-Mini-Lesson-on-How-to-be-Friendly-3613743?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20Dominoes). Students get to engage in gameplay while practicing the actions shown on the game pieces. [![social skills dominoes](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/5db83d7d-de5c-4c7f-bcff-cd8609d41177_pasted20image200.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Dominoes-Game-and-Mini-Lesson-on-How-to-be-Friendly-3613743?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=5%20Ways%20Dominoes) **How do you use dominoes in school counseling?** **Try these ideas to see your students “fall over” with excitement!** ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Pin-5-Ways-Dominoes-2.png) [Other ways to use materials](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/craftivities/) you already have in your office. **Categories:** Counsel It Yourself (CIY), Counseling **Tags:** counseling activities, games --- ### [How do you use non-counseling games in counseling?](https://confidentcounselors.com/non-counseling-games/) **Published:** March 16, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Chelsey, EduKate & Inspire and Counselor Up **Content:** How often do you grab the Ungame off the shelf? What about Uno or Jenga? We know who wins that contest. Non-counseling games can be such great tools in the office. They engage students immediately, game play is familiar, and you can cover tons of different topics with the same game. I’m sold. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Incorporate Games ![CounselorChelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/CounselorChesleyRound-150x150.png)I absolutely love to use non-counseling games in my work with students! They fit perfectly with small group, individual, and even classroom lessons. I use many games for my early elementary students to help teach turn-taking, waiting, encouraging others and dealing with frustration. This can be so helpful because it is a way of practicing what we have been working on while making it fun for the student. It is also great because I can use it as an informal assessment of the student’s progress, and to see which areas we still need to work on! **– [CounselorChelsey](http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/CounselorChelsey)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Social Skills Practice ![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg) Basically, every game teaches social skills! I love using cooperative games (where there is no single winner) to scaffold students’ turn-taking, cooperation, leadership and more. In Hoot Owl Hoot, players work together to use strategy to get all of the owlets in the nest before the sun rises. You can use fewer owls for younger kids and more owls for older kids. Some real strategy is needed in order to actually get all the owls to the nest. Skills learned include turn taking, voicing an opinion, handling disagreements, leadership, decision making with a group, and strategy. Using commonly held skill language will help your teachers, parents, and administrators understand that “just playing games” can have a positive impact on students. Check out [my blog post ](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/cooperative-games-for-counselors)for more games to play! **– Rebecca at [Counselor Up](http://www.counselorup.com)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Small Groups ![EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/watercolor-logo-150x150.png)I love using non-counseling games with my small groups! Games are an engaging way to help students work on social skills, cooperation, and problem-solving. My favorite non-counseling games are Jenga, Don’t Break the Ice, Race to the Treasure, Hoot Owl Hoot, Spot It, and Suspend. During the first session of nearly all of my small groups, we play Jenga as an icebreaker. I created a resource called [Build Your Own Counseling Game](http://bit.ly/SCgame) that allows you to turn Jenga (or any other game you can add color) into a therapeutic game. I colored my Jenga blocks with permanent markers, which allows me to match up the colors to themed question cards. Depending on the type of small group, I choose from themes such as All About Me, Changing Families, Self-Esteem, Friendship Problems, or New Students. Students really enjoy playing the themed Jenga game and usually ask to play it again when they visit my office! **– Kate from [EduKate and Inspire](http://bit.ly/EduKateBlog)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] #### Non-counseling games mentioned in this post (affiliate links): #### **What are your favorite games to use in counseling? Share in the comments below.** ![counseling games conversation](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/26-1.jpg) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Group Counseling **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Chelsey, Counselor Up, EduKate & Inspire, games --- ### [5 Ways to Reframe Negative Thoughts](https://confidentcounselors.com/reframe-negative-thoughts/) **Published:** March 19, 2018 **Author:** The Counseling Teacher Brandy **Content:** Empower students to escape negative thinking traps by guiding them to reframe negative thoughts. Once students identify these cognitive distortions, real change can begin. These thoughts hold them back and keep them from their full potential. In cognitive behavioral therapy, there are dozens of thinking errors that cause the mind to believe things that are just not true. Let’s look at five of the most common distortions and how to reframe them. # 5 Negative Thought Patterns and How to Change Them ## Stewing Dwelling on thoughts is a common distortion. When you repeat negative thoughts or a bad experience over and over in your mind, you begin to lose sight of the positive things around you. **Reframe**: Recognize when an intrusive thought is taking over. Become intentional about stopping the thought. Replace the thought with happy thoughts. Come up with a list of things that make you happy. Start a journal of blessings and refer to it often. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Slide01.jpg) ## Magnifying When you draw conclusions that are not justified, based on limited information, you are overgeneralizing. Like the old saying goes, you are “making a mountain out of a molehill.” Overreacting to a minor issue is common. Example: I failed a quiz, so I will always fail. **Reframe**: To reframe this negative thought pattern, focus on the big picture in life. Goal setting is one way to do this. Move on and realize that you have the power to change and do better. Be able to make mistakes and forgive yourself. ## All or Nothing This distortion means that you see things in black and white with no gray areas. You believe that everything is exactly right or dead wrong. You think of things as a complete success or a total failure. This type of thinking sets you up for failure because it is impossible to achieve. **Reframe**: Give yourself some slack. You are only human. Nobody is perfect. Learn to be okay with navigating the gray areas of life. Remember to be flexible. Try a [growth mindset activity](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Growth-Mindset-Flipbook-3674911) to expand your mind. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Slide017.jpg) ## Fortune Telling When you assume that you know the outcome before it happens or when you think you know what somebody else is thinking, you are attempting to predict the future and read minds. The problem with this type of thinking is that the assumptions are usually wrong. **Reframe**: Start assuming positive outcomes. If you imagine yourself being successful or imagine that others are thinking positively about you, you are more likely to have a good outcome. When you picture a negative outcome, it will often keep you from trying. Since you cannot possibly predict the future, try being positive and brave. ## Personalization When you think that everything that happens around you is related to you somehow, you are taking things too personally. This is the feeling that people around you are behaving the way they are because they are reacting to something that you did. This is unhealthy thinking because these thoughts cause you to blame yourself for things that have nothing to do with you. **Reframe**: Realize that just because something happened near you, doesn’t mean that it had anything to do with you. You are not the center of the universe. Not everything is related to you. Consider that you may have nothing to do with other people’s reactions. ### [Try this fun flipbook to practice these skills with students.](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cognitive-Behavior-Therapy-Llama-Change-Negative-Thoughts-3561721?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Negative%20Thinking%2032018) [![negative thinking flipbook](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Slide03-300x157.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cognitive-Behavior-Therapy-Llama-Change-Negative-Thoughts-3561721?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Negative%20Thinking%2032018) [![parts of llama negative thinking flipbook](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Slide02-1-300x157.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cognitive-Behavior-Therapy-Llama-Change-Negative-Thoughts-3561721?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Negative%20Thinking%2032018) ![Negative thinking flipbook](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/1-2-683x1024.png) **Categories:** Counseling, Popular Posts **Tags:** cbt, group counseling, individual counseling --- ### [5 School Counseling Activities Using Pillboxes](https://confidentcounselors.com/pillboxes-school-counseling-ideas/) **Published:** March 21, 2018 **Author:** The Responsive Counselor **Content:** Target’s Bullseye’s Playground (did you know that’s the real name for what we all call the “dollar spot”??) is great, but I’ve also been loving some finds at the dollar store. On one of my recent trips, my eye was drawn to the pillboxes. I had no plan in mind but just knew I could think of some great uses for one. As soon as I got to school the next day, my mind starting racing. A $1 “tool” that’s easy to find, has several uses, and is engaging to kiddos? Yes, please! And without further ado – 5 different ways to use a pillbox in school counseling: ## Kindness Missions Students love “secrets” and every school needs some extra kindness sprinkled around it. This works both as an intervention for students struggling to show prosocial behaviors (especially those that truly don’t know what to do) and for students that just need a little extra support. Depending on the developmental level of the kid, you can either co-create the missions or make them ahead of time to put them in. They can be as general as *“Help someone that looks like they need it,”* or as super specific as *“Compliment someone today who answers a question right in class today,”* or somewhere in between like *“Pick up and throw away some trash today that doesn’t belong to you.”* Each morning, your identified student (or students if you have more than one pillbox) stop by your office to receive their mission. **Bonus**: This totally works for a whole homeroom as well! ![pillboxes - kindness mission](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/ef37d7f3-f9ca-4176-a58f-25848df9fc6a_image3.jpg) ## Behavior Foci Sometimes we have kiddos that don’t need a daily behavior plan but need to put some extra focus into their choices throughout the day to keep them on track. Or maybe they had a daily behavior plan that they exited from and they need a booster. For students like that, work with them on creating some specific behaviors or traits they want to focus on. Write them out together and have them come see you each morning to see what the day’s focus is … and for a little pep talk. These can be things like: > “*Today I will listen more than I talk.*” or “*Honesty*” or “*Using my stress ball when I’m frustrated.*“ For this use of the pillbox as well as for the kindness missions use, the strips of paper also double as reminder bracelets for the kiddos to sport throughout the day. A special secret bracelet from the school counselor’s office is a win in just about any kid’s book! ![Pillboxes - Behavior targets](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/4ef1f982-9efa-4e96-9232-dd026ece2c6d_image1.jpg) ## Reminders for Skill Generalization and Carryover Have you ever done great work with a student in individual or group counseling and then they forget to use the skills you’ve taught them? Me too. It can be frustrating. The pillbox can be used as a fun sort of “homework” to encourage skill generalization and carryover. Write your student little reminders, one for each day between sessions, for them to open and read. For example: > *“Remember to use your snake breath today before guided reading group!”* > > *“I know you can control your voice today!”* > > *“Ask 1 classmate a question about their favorite TV show to practice starting a conversation with someone.”* ## Behavior Flip Box Token boards are awesome but sometimes you don’t have access to a laminator or you’ve run out of velcro. You can accomplish the same idea with a pillbox! Tape/glue your student’s favorite little images onto each flap and open them all up. For each time (or time block) that they exhibit the targeted behavior, the student gets to close a flap. When they’re all closed, boom, reward! The closing and the “click” gives students the tactile and visual response of the token board but with less prep. ![pillboxes - behavior plan alternative](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/30fcace4-cd7c-4a64-9afc-101c38d4b122_image2.jpg) ## Mystery Reinforcement Many of us do “Check In-Check Out” or some other sort of individual behavior plan with students. For lots of them, it’s key that they pick their motivator at the start of the day. For some others, a surprise is even more motivating. With your students or on your own, create slips of paper representing different rewards. If they earn their points/tickets/tokens/etc., they get to lift the flap and see what they’ve earned that day! ![Pillboxes - mystery reinforcement](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/9e2c9a11-1784-4005-8931-eecadc9af39e_image6.jpg) ## Revealing the Group Session’s Topic Every week that kiddos come in for small group counseling, their first question is “What are we going to do today?!” If you are running a group that is 7 sessions or fewer, put a piece of paper with the topic or activity written for each inside. At the start of each session, have a student flip open the box and read the paper. It could be as simple as “ClassDojo video” or “The Bad Seed” or “CandyLand” or it could be an I Can statement tied to the skill you’re teaching and practicing like “I can persevere when my work is challenging” or “I can use my social filter.” ## Emotion Coded Bead Storage Many of us keep beads in our offices to use for making keychains or bracelets. What if we coded some of them by emotion and asked students to share out about examples of times they had each emotion as they created their bracelet? Or maybe you only include “positive” or “comfortable” emotions and the keychain is full of warm memories. You could also make each type of bead represent a deep breathing technique (snake breath, dragon breath, horse lips, etc.) and their bracelet or keychain represents their favorites that they can do in order when they need to regulate. ![pillboxes - emotions](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/42564b5a-09c5-4348-83ca-1f545677d73c_image4.jpg) ## Helpful Thoughts If CBT is your jam, then you might spend a fair amount of time working with students on their thoughts. This is tough work on their little brains though, and they often need some extra reinforcement. ![helpful thoughts](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/37a3f59f-5d92-4fce-87c1-98405763b10a_image5.jpg) When I have a student I’m doing some cognitive work with, we pick out some [helpful thoughts](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Helpful-and-Unhelpful-Thought-Cards-for-CBT-Activities-2803291?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Pillboxes%2032018) that they want to focus their brains on and put them into the box. Each day, they stop by my office and open up the day’s slot, read the thought, and carry it in their pocket for the day. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Helpful-Unhelpful-Thoughts-300x300.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Helpful-and-Unhelpful-Thought-Cards-for-CBT-Activities-2803291?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Pillboxes%2032018) ## Joke of the Day We’ve all got some pretty great training and degrees under our belts, but laughter is sometimes still the best medicine. Maybe you have a little corkboard outside your office and there’s a student whose job it is to open up a box opening and hang the joke of the day on it. Or maybe you like to have a “special” joke available each day for after really heavy sessions with students when some levity is needed before they head back to class. Or maybe the jokes are for teachers. I’m betting you have at least 1 teacher at your office each day that’s stressed out and feeling a bit negative. Invite them to flip a lid and take out a joke (or meme). ![Pillboxes - jokes](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/286755d4-d576-4ed5-85ab-a66f8f45554e_image7.jpg) **Pin this post later** and check out our other [creative ideas for school counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/craftivities/)! ![pillboxes in school counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/2-3.png) **Categories:** Counsel It Yourself (CIY), Quick Activities **Tags:** counseling activities --- ### [Considering Taking a School Counseling Intern?](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-intern/) **Published:** March 23, 2018 **Author:** The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store, Carol Miller Counseling Essentials and The School Counselor Is In **Content:** Have you taken a school counseling intern before? An extra person to take some students for counseling sounds like a dream. We all know it requires preparation and reflection to make this relationship successful for you and your school counseling intern. So how do some confident counselors set this relationship up for success? \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Basic Requirements ![The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store.jpg)The best advice I can give is to prepare yourself for the time commitment. Interns are still learning and some require more support than others. If you do not believe you will have the time to properly train an intern, do not take one. The first thing I consider is if I have physical space for the intern to work from. I believe interns should have access to the basics, a phone, computer, desk, and a space to meet with students. If an intern does not have access to these “basic needs”, I find it ends up being more work for me, as I need to facilitate this access over the year, when my time is limited. Next, I make sure to meet with the prospective intern’s supervising professor to go over the program’s expectations. I then meet with the intern to outline the programs and my expectations, and try to get a feel if this partnership will be a good fit or not. Having an intern can be a great help if these suggestions are considered before saying “yes.” [– The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Comprehensive Counseling Programs ![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg)Taking on a school counseling intern is a huge responsibility. This is the culminating coursework to obtaining that coveted degree, so it is important to make sure you can do this with confidence. Interns need to experience a functional and developed comprehensive counseling program. If you do not have a program and are still trying to figure your role within your school building, having an intern is not for you. Interns need to be able to experience looking at data to understand how to create groups, identify student and building needs to develop classroom lessons, and have access to students requiring individual counseling sessions. Interns need to learn how to create goals, promote their program, develop relationships with faculty, understand the importance of their role as a team member, and create positive relationships with students. I always give my interns a planner to help keep them organized. Your role as a supervisor is to model these experiences and help your intern hone in on these skills. After all, you are helping them to create their first [school counselor resume](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Counselor-Resume-Template-Flag-Design-3081858) in preparation for their first job. While it takes work to have an intern, the payoff is work it. – [Carol Miller – The Middle School Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Provide Beginning Resources ![The School Counselor Is In](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/theschoolcounselorisin3.jpg)Taking on a school counseling intern can be a wonderful and rewarding experience. Communication is paramount to having a successful experience. Providing clear, detailed expectations helps eliminate miscommunication and problems. Taking the effort to help your intern feel welcome and part of your school culture goes a long way. One way of doing this is gaining input from your intern on what goals and experiences they would like to accomplish during their time at your school. School interns typically don’t have a lot of resources starting out, so I like to give them this [new counselor starter pack](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/New-School-Counselor-and-School-Counseling-Intern-Starter-Pack-3655821) that they can use in any school setting. Having a school counseling intern does require effort on your part, but the end result can be rewarding in sending your intern into the field with a solid foundation for their future career. [– Jodi Mills – The School Counselor Is In](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-School-Counselor-Is-In) **What are your tips for making a practitioner-intern relationship successful? Did you have a positive experience as an intern? As a practitioner?** ![coffee conversation: school counseling intern](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/2-1.png) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Your Program **Tags:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials, CC tips, internship, Sunny Sunshine Store, The School Counselor Is In --- ### [Organization Tips for a Testing Coordinator](https://confidentcounselors.com/organization-testing-coordinator/) **Published:** March 30, 2018 **Author:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials **Content:** It’s important to be organized as a testing coordinator. When I was a high school counselor, I was in charge of AP testing, PSATs and PLAN tests and I also was a testing coordinator for ACTs. Now, I coordinate our State ELA and Math testing. I found the best way was to keep all files labeled on my computer so that I could make sure I could find them easily from year to year. This includes class lists, accommodations, resources needed in the testing room, signs, posters, etc. Before the testing, I package all testing materials in clear boxes for each teacher using my [testing organization pack](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Testing-Organization-and-Administration-Pack-1653402?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Test%20Admin%20Tips). ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Testing-organization-1024x764.png) Each box is labeled with the proctor’s name, grade, and subject. For our state testing, I color code grade levels for easy sorting. Inside each box, I pack pencils, tissues, a door sign, class list, proctor responsibilities checklist, and a what to do when you return your box checklist. In addition, I keep a page of notes from last year of things that went well, and things I need to fix for next year. The thing to remember with being a testing coordinator is that no matter how much you plan and prep, there is always something unexpected that will pop up and each year will get easier. [– Carol Miller – The Middle School Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor) **Check out our other posts on [Test Anxiety.](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/03/06/supporting-students-with-test-anxiety/)** ![conversations: testing coordinator](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/7.png) **Categories:** Organization **Tags:** CC tips, organization, testing --- ### [Preparing to Work with Military Families](https://confidentcounselors.com/prepare-military-families/) **Published:** March 26, 2018 **Author:** School Counseling Confessions **Content:** When I first heard that my husband’s job transfer would move me from my little town in Massachusetts to living 20 miles outside a major army base, I thought nothing of it. When I took a part-time school counseling job at a small magnet school, again, I thought nothing of how many military families I would be working with. I was in for a total surprise! I have had the privilege of meeting families who have lived all over the world. Their stories led to situations and questions that I was not prepared to deal with. For example, a third grader was upset because he just received the news that his father was getting deployed to South Korea in March. Another student is now living for the first time in the USA because their parents have been stationed all over the world. I needed to learn more, so I attended free webinars from [www.militarychild.org](http://www.militarychild.org) which gave a ton of information for professionals about transitions, military student needs, and offered parents support as well. I learned about the average amount of moves a military child will have in the 12 years of schooling and the rights that military children have through the [MIC3 (](http://www.militarychild.org/blog/3-reasons-the-mic3-is-crucial-for-military-families)[Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission)](http://www.militarychild.org/blog/3-reasons-the-mic3-is-crucial-for-military-families). So what do you do when you want to learn how to apply these best practice? You go to the best. I made an appointment to spend the day with the school counselor located right on the Fort Jackson Army Base. Her name is Taqueena Quintana and she works with military students all day, every day. Just going on base and seeing the community was amazing. There was a waterpark, bowling alley, Starbucks and much more. My visit took me specifically to one of the elementary schools. From the second I walked in, the school felt warm and inviting. Taqueena took me through the challenges and insights when working with military families. She spoke about three levels that school counselors need to be aware of when working with military students: \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/13d8fc9e-3b17-4537-87fb-582dc09a5f97_Taqeena20head20shot.JPG-100x100.png)Taqueena S. Quintana, MSEd, LPC, NCC, DCC, School Counselor with the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) Ms. Quintana is a professional school counselor and licensed professional counselor with 10+ years in education. Her extensive background includes serving diverse students groups such as students with disabilities, military-connected students, and underrepresented minority student populations. To contact Mrs. Quintana, please feel free to email her at tquintana1201@gmail.com. ## Micro Level “The military is a culture within a culture. Keep an open mind when working with military-connected students. In addition to cultural factors that include race, ethnicity, religious/spiritual orientation and other areas, the military is comprised of various branches and ranks. Included in this are active duty, reserve, and national guard components. Be sure to consider these factors when supporting military-connected students.” ## Meso Level “Educate your school community on supported military-connected students. As a school counselor, you are in a unique position to educate administrators, teachers, staff and even parents on the specific needs of military-connected students. This may include an in-service for teachers in supporting military-connected students within their classrooms, a presentation to school counselors in your district that highlight the ways in which counselors support military-connected students and their families through various transitional periods (e.g. relocation, deployment, reintegration) or a parent workshop that addresses social/emotional needs of military-connected students.” ## Macro Level “As change-agents, school counselors are leaders in the area of advocacy. In advocating for systemic change in addressing the needs of military-connected students, you have the opportunity to educate legislators, school board members, superintendents/chancellors and administrators about the importance of supporting this unique student population. Participating in local, state and national efforts that support military-connected students increases the effectiveness of the work that you do on a larger scale.” \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] April is Month of the Military Child (get your [free toolkit here](http://www.militarychild.org/momc-tool-kit)) and it is important to recognize those students who are military and let them know that you support their families. Through my research and meeting families, I now know that it is not just the active duty father or mother in the military but the active duty family. A big thank you to Taqueena Quintana for sharing her time and expertise with me. **What is your experience working with military families?** [9 Books to Help Military Children](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/9-books-help-military-children/) ![Military families reuniting](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Prepare-Military-Families.png) **Categories:** Parents **Tags:** military --- ### [Build Positive Attitudes During Testing Season](https://confidentcounselors.com/positive-attitudes-during-testing/) **Published:** April 6, 2018 **Author:** Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor and The Counseling Teacher Brandy **Content:** Testing season can be a time of stress in schools for students and teachers. It can be hard to maintain an optimistic outlook. But we all know that positive attitudes have been shown to improve performance. How’s a school counselor to help? We can build positive attitudes during testing through some simple school-wide initiatives. With a little planning, we can improve student confidence and positively impact test scores. Check out what The Counseling Teacher Brandy and Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor do at their schools. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Boost Staff Morale [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/round-logo-solid-black-150x150.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy-Thompson)Positivity starts with the teachers and trickles down to the students. We use humor and treats in the teachers’ lounge to keep the morale up during the stressful testing season. From donuts to a coffee bar, little things go a long way. I print out motivational and humorous signs to place in the teacher workroom, lounge, and restrooms. We call it “[Blinging the Lounge.](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Faculty-Morale-Boost-in-the-Teachers-Lounge-1711429)” **[– The Counseling Teacher Brandy](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy)** [![bling the teacher lounge](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Bling-the-Teachers-Lounge-300x300.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Faculty-Morale-Boost-in-the-Teachers-Lounge-1711429?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Positive%20Testing%20Attitudes) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Boost Student Morale ![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg)We do all we can to build our students up and make them feel like they can do anything. On test days, we have dads and volunteers from the college come and line our parent drop off area, offering high fives and words of encouragement as kids enter the building. Parent write notes of encouragement that we give kids before the test so they have a positive mindset. We do [guidance lessons](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mission-Test-Taking-Success-test-tips-test-anxiety-2400655?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Positive%20Testing%20Attitudes) to teach strategies for how to remain calm and stay positive during test times. We also have a “rock the test” parade where the other kids walk the school while the younger kids clap and cheer them on with noisemakers and supportive posters. **– [Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor)** ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/IMG_2224-1024x768.jpg) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] **More Posts for Helping During Testing Season:** - [Supporting Students with Test Anxiety](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/03/06/supporting-students-with-test-anxiety/) - [12 Books to Help Students Overcome Test Anxiety](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/03/06/twelve-books-to-help-kids-overcome-test-anxiety/) ![positive attitudes during testing](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/8-1.png) **Categories:** Academics & Career, Collaboration, Counseling, Counselor Chats **Tags:** CC tips, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, positive thinking, test anxiety, The Counseling Teacher Brandy --- ### [Supporting Military Students During Deployment](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-military-students-during-deployment/) **Published:** April 2, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Keri **Content:** If you’re a counselor in an area with a dense military population, you’re acutely aware of the ongoing military engagements around the world and the effects these long periods of parental absence have on students. Sometimes, families move away from military installations to be closer to supportive extended family during deployments. In this case, some counselors may find themselves with military students on their caseloads for the first time ever. Whether you’re a regular at working with military students or new to the culture, we’ve got ideas for supporting military students during deployment so you can approach this sensitive time with confidence! ![Do you have military students with a deployed parent? Set up systems within your school to ensure that you are supporting military students during deployment by being mindful of changes, creating supportive relationships, and making appropriate referrals.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/4-300x167.png) # Supporting Military Students During Deployment ## Understand the Cycle While deployments can range anywhere from 6 to upwards of 18 months, the process of deployment begins long before the day the service member leaves. Prior to the deployment, service members may spend extended time away training for the deployment. This is commonly referred to as the pre-deployment phase. Then, of course, is the actual deployment, which is followed by the post-deployment, or reintegration phase. Each phase can bring a wave of new emotions and difficult transitions for students. Keep lines of communication open with parents to stay informed about upcoming events so that you can check in with students. And remember that you may see changes even after the deployed parent returns as the family begins the reintegration process. ## Educate Staff ### Reduce Demands As the student experiences each phase of the deployment, they can and will demonstrate a host of signs or behaviors. Help your staff understand what to look for and be sensitive to the student’s experiences. Encourage teachers to be cognizant of the demands placed on the student and reduce the workload if necessary. Some students may feel increased pressure to fill a role at home and may be unable to perform at the same level at which they were previously performing. ### Be Mindful of Concerns about Safety With talk of deployments or exposure to news media, some students may show increased signs of concerns about safety. Create a common language to state the policies or procedures in place in the school to address specific safety concerns. For example, “If there is a tornado warning, we will do XYZ to keep ourselves safe.” ### Give Choices Some military students may experience a heightened sense of loss of control before or during the deployment. When appropriate, encourage staff to give students choices to allow students to increase their control over appropriate classroom decisions. ### Look for Emotional Reactions Students may demonstrate a whole host of emotions such as anger, frustration, or constant worry during the deployment. Educate your staff on signs of these and encourage them to make referrals to the school counselor when the student is struggling to manage the emotions in the classroom setting. Help staff to understand that behavioral outbursts, social withdrawal, or disinterest may be signs that the student is struggling. ## Specify Locations to Unwind Set up specific areas where students can go to unwind. It may be a classroom calm corner or a specific room in your building where students can practice mindfulness. [A district in Florida](https://www.pnj.com/story/news/military/2017/09/19/five-escambia-county-schools-lounges-military-kids-quarterdecks-skype-parents/678929001/) even set up a room where students could go to Skype with deployed parents. Whatever your area is, make sure students know where it is and encourage staff to let students use the area when they need a moment to manage their feelings. ![Do you have military students with a deployed parent? Set up systems within your school to ensure that you are supporting military students during deployment by being mindful of changes, creating supportive relationships, and making appropriate referrals.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Untitled-design-6-300x300.png) ## Maintain Predictable Routines Home life may feel chaotic in the initial weeks and months of deployment. Students will need the predictable routines afforded by the classroom. Students who did not previously need them may benefit from visual schedules. If there are schedule or routine changes, let the student know ahead of time and privately, and be sensitive to his or her needs to ask questions about the changes. Be sensitive to outbursts relating to changes in routine, and allow the student to privately process with the counselor. ## Build Community If you have several students experiencing a deployment at the same time, consider forming a [counseling group](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Deployment-Group-Counseling-Program-Deployment-Activities-for-Military-Kids-2151222?utm_source=CC%20%7C%20Supporting%20Military%20Students&utm_campaign=Deployment%20Group). Give students a space to discuss their shared experiences and create a supportive community. You can find books to read during your group [on this post](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/9-books-help-military-children/). Some students may also enjoy putting together care packages for the deployed family member. ![Do you have military students with a deployed parent? Set up systems within your school to ensure that you are supporting military students during deployment by being mindful of changes, creating supportive relationships, and making appropriate referrals.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Hearts-Apart-Deployment-Group-300x169.png) If you have just one student going through a parental deployment, create [another type of group](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri/Category/Group-Counseling-Curriculum-226501?utm_source=CC%20%7C%20Supporting%20Military%20Students&utm_campaign=All%20Groups) to build connections or community. Some military students may even welcome the opportunity for a group that isn’t focused on the actual deployment. It could be a lunch group, game group, book club, or [something else](https://www.counselorkeri.com/2017/12/11/clubs-for-school-counselors-to-lead/). Simply find a way for the student to have meaningful connections and supports within the school. ## Provide an Outlet Whether you’re meeting with the student individually or just checking in from time to time, give the student some sort of outlet for expression. A journal, an art pad, or [play dough](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/12/5-ways-to-use-play-doh-in-school-counseling/) to channel energy into can help the student to express some of the feelings that may be hard to talk about. Some students may also enjoy working on a long-term project with the counselor to take the focus away from the deployment. Work on a larger Lego project that can be gradually built over several weeks of meeting or work with the student to learn a new skill like finger knitting. Finally, some students may be so tired of talking about the deployment at home that they just want to be a kid at school. Spend some time shooting basketball, playing board games, or some other fun activity to give them a break from thinking about the deployment! ![Do you have military students with a deployed parent? Set up systems within your school to ensure that you are supporting military students during deployment by being mindful of changes, creating supportive relationships, and making appropriate referrals.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/5-ways-to-repurpose-your-8-300x167.png) ## Make Outside Referrals If a student’s needs during the deployment require more extensive services, encourage families to seek outside therapy. Link families up with [Military Family & Life Counselors](http://www.militaryonesource.mil/military-and-family-life-counseling) for free counseling services or programs such as [FOCUS Project](https://www.focusproject.org) for family resilience counseling before, during, and after the deployment. Get in touch with the military unit or School Liaison Officer. Communication with these entities creates an invaluable resource for getting families the services they need. How are you supporting military students during deployment at your school? Let us know in the comments! For more information on supporting military students and resources available for families and providers, check out these sites: - [National Military Families Association](http://www.militaryfamily.org) - [Military Child Education Coalition](http://www.militarychild.org) - [Military One Source](http://www.militaryonesource.mil) ![Do you have military students with a deployed parent? Set up systems within your school to ensure that you are supporting military students during deployment by being mindful of changes, creating supportive relationships, and making appropriate referrals.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/5-ways-to-repurpose-your-7-200x300.png) **Categories:** Counseling **Tags:** military --- ### [How to Start Group Counseling Sessions](https://confidentcounselors.com/start-group-counseling-sessions/) **Published:** April 4, 2018 **Author:** Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop **Content:** How you start group counseling sessions sets the tone for the next 20 to 40 minutes. You can spend that time getting everyone settled and waiting to start or you can use those 5 minutes with purpose. I have a couple different warm-up activities that I use. I vary these depending on the focus, the dynamics, and the state of the group. ## Requirements No matter which activity I choose to start group counseling sessions, I work to make sure it meets these requirements: #### Targeted The warm-up activity should be aligned with your objective for the session. If your group has been going for a few weeks and the students are comfortable, doing an icebreaker isn’t really the best use of time. What activity will set students up for success that day and will connect to the session? **Example**: You are working on turn-taking. When students arrive, they jot down three ways to choose who goes first in games. #### Personalized Start group counseling sessions with activities that match a student’s individual needs and their skills. I often integrate a quick skill demonstration as a warm-up. Students show off what they have learned or been practicing that week. **Example**: If they are working on assertive communication, have them write or say an I-Message. #### Hook Often in classrooms, teachers have a hook in their lesson. Something that engages students and “hooks” them into the coming content. I often embed these into the intro of a counseling session, but these are great for a warm-up instead. Hooks can be analogies for a concept, stories that relate, media examples, or props. **Example**: You are working on bullying. You can start the lesson with the [bruised apple](http://operationrespect.org/2016/07/26/effective-classroom-lessons-about-bullying/) example or challenge students to clean-up glitter on the table as an analogy for bullying. #### Routine/Expected Start group counseling sessions in a way that is routine. Having a beginning routine minimizes downtime. You can vary the warm-up, but students should know that as soon as they come in there is an activity waiting for them. **Example**: I often write the warm-up (and the rest of the session schedule) on the whiteboard. Students walk in, read the board, and start on the warm-up. This lets me vary the warm-up and transition students seamlessly. # Ways to Start Counseling Sessions ## Feelings Check-Ins ![Feelings check-in slips for school counseling.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/image-300x300.jpg) Most of our counseling groups involve students increasing their emotional awareness, identifying their feelings, and learning to accept all emotions are okay. In practice, students would select a [feelings check-in slip](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Feelings-Check-In-Cards-and-Posters-Feelings-Exit-Slips-2040322?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Counseling%20Warm-Ups), circle how they were feeling. You can date the back and use it to chart their emotions over time. Not hard data, but useful when exploring how emotions are linked to behavior or showing how feelings change over time. Check out how Gretchen from Speckled Moose Counseling using a [Feelings Check-in Bulletin Board.](http://speckledmoosecounseling.blogspot.com/2016/04/small-group-structure-for-elementary.html) **Keep your purpose clear**. Feelings check-ins can spiral into off-topic conversations that are not focused. If your purpose is to get students to open up, then, by all means, follow the conversation. But most likely, you wanted to increase their emotional awareness and understanding we all have different emotions. ## Ice Breakers For quieter groups or newer groups, I use icebreakers. Make a [printable list](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Ice-Breakers-and-Greetings-Small-Group-Counseling-Warmup-2348436?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Counseling%20Warm-Ups) you can have on hand. These help students get comfortable and connect with each other using low-stakes activities. This is also great when you are waiting for some students to arrive. It fills the transition time, but also helps students loosen up. ## Discreet Skill When you are running groups that are more skill based, such as social skills groups, use your first five minutes to have students demonstrate a learned skill. Choose a small skill that can be quickly demonstrated without lots of correction and is aligned with your future sessions. As mentioned before, you can have them generate ways to choose who goes first in a game. In the intro to your session, you can connect this to way to play fair with others. ## Mindful Minute ![mindful minute cards](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/IMG_2265-300x300.jpg) Some groups’ engines run a bit fast. It can be helpful to start each session with a simple mindful minute. Once students are familiar with mindfulness, the minute will easily focus them and help them regulate their energy as you move into the session. On my blog, I have a mindful minute freebie in my [subscriber resource library](https://socialemotionalworkshop.com/the-toolbox/). Also, check out [GoZen](https://www.gozen.com/) or [Left Brain Buddha](http://leftbrainbuddha.com/10-ways-teach-mindfulness-to-kids/) for more scripts. Make sure to familiarize students with mindfulness and it’s purpose before using this group opener. ## Challenges Try a quick challenge problem, minute-to-win-it games, or cooperative activity. Groups focused on conflict resolution or positive thinking can be given short notes with a fictional student asking advice. They can write down advice or possible solutions. Your students may just be at the point where they are working on expressing empathy to others. Check out this list of [quick cooperative games](http://www.ventureteambuilding.co.uk/team-building-activities-for-kids/) for kids. Minute-to-Win-It challenges are super engaging openers that can help bring students out of their shell. Now if you do a quick search there are lots of fun ones, but remember they need to be aligned with your objective and the needs of your students. ## Everybody Writes Try opening sessions with a short scenario and a discussion question. Instead of having students respond to the question immediately, everybody writes down what they think. Then you have the discussion about it. I find that students open up more, think more deeply, and are less shy to share. These are especially helpful for problems and conflicts that are familiar to them and maybe a tad controversial. Things like when a friend says you can’t be friends with someone else or when you see someone cheat. ## Entry Tickets Last, but not least, I use the first five minutes for entry tickets. Entry tickets are unsurprisingly the opposite of exit tickets. They are asking the students to demonstrate a skill they haven’t learned yet. This gives me a baseline for what they know before we start. It’s like a pretest or a warm-up problem in math. I keep these very low-stakes and students know that I’m not looking for mastery. #### How do you start counseling sessions? Check out my other post about planning [purposeful first counseling sessions](https://socialemotionalworkshop.com/2017/08/first-counseling-session-activities/). ![counseling warm-ups pin](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Copy-of-Copy-of-Books-we-love-Pin.png) **Categories:** Group Counseling **Tags:** counseling activities --- ### [Favorite School Counseling Anxiety Resource](https://confidentcounselors.com/favorite-anxiety-resource/) **Published:** April 13, 2018 **Author:** Speckled Moose Counseling, Counselor Keri and The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store **Content:** What is your favorite school counseling anxiety resource? Testing season aside, students are experiencing record rates of anxiety. School counselors are leaders in the building to help students and staff understand and effectively manage anxiety. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Staff Book Study ![Speckled Moose Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/speckledmoose.jpg)Last year, my building focused on learning more about anxiety and how to better support students emotionally. We used [Anxiety and Depression in the Classroom: A Teacher’s Guide to Fostering Self-Regulation in the Classroom](https://amzn.to/2Jx4n1H) for a book study, and it is incredible. Written by a clinical psychologist, it explains clearly anxiety disorders, and provides straightforward tools and activities for educators. It sparked amazing discussions, gave everyone another perspective on supporting children, and provided concrete suggestions that staff implemented immediately. A truly wonderful resource to build confidence in supporting the emotional wellbeing of students. – **Gretchen at [Speckled Moose Counseling](https://speckledmoosecounseling.com)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Engaging Videos ![Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Counselor-Keri-150x150.png)[GoZen](https://www.gozen.com) is an incredible program to help students build skills to manage anxiety! The program has animated videos that teach students how to change the way they think about problems, challenge their negative thinking patterns, and avoid cognitive distortions (or Thought Holes, as the program calls them). The videos are really engaging and practical with short exercises that can be practiced daily to reinforce learning. There are programs for both schools and parents, so it’s also a great resource to recommend to parents who are looking for ways to help their children manage anxiety at home. – **[Keri from Counselor Keri](http://www.counselorkeri.com)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ## Informative Website ![The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store.jpg)[Anxiety BC](https://www.anxietybc.com) is a wonderful resource to help students develop coping skills to manage their anxiety. This website has a ton of information on anxiety disorders (handouts and videos), suggested treatment strategies, and worksheets. It’s simple to navigate and I like that I have resources readily available to send home with students to give directions on how to practice what we worked on in session at home, and to keep parents updated on the strategies their child has learned. – **[The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Sunny-Sunshine-Student-Support-Store)** **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Counselor Chats **Tags:** anxiety, book recommendations, CC tips, Counselor Keri, Speckled Moose Counseling, Sunny Sunshine Store --- ### [Using Props in School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/props-school-counseling/) **Published:** April 16, 2018 **Author:** The School Counselor Is In **Content:** At the end of every school year, I ask my sixth grade students to reflect back on all the classroom lessons they can remember from Kindergarten on up. Without fail, the lessons they remember the most are ones that I have used some type of hook, game or prop to go with it. Using props in school counseling can increase student engagement and help make your lessons more memorable. A prop is an object that is introduced in a lesson that illustrates an important point or concept. School counselors teach a lot of classroom lessons and facilitate many individual and group counseling sessions per week. The pressure to keep students attention is a daily struggle and can feel overwhelming, especially this time of year! Incorporating props into lesson plans can be a valuable resource in helping to add enthusiasm and interest. When it comes time to add props to your school counseling program, here are four things to consider: # Purpose Students don’t all learn in the same manner. It is important to create an environment that addresses various learning styles. Multi-sensory lessons are essential in meeting the needs of all students. Introducing props that incorporate visual, auditory or kinesthetic aspects serves as a way to make personal connections with students and their particular style of learning. # Simple Coming up with props to use for counseling lessons doesn’t have to be an elaborate or time-consuming process. Looking around your house for items to match a lesson is a great start. For my first lesson of the year, I wanted to read the book, [How Full is Your Bucket](https://amzn.to/2JzSeJh), By Tom Rath. I found a cute sand bucket and shovel set in my summer bag that I thought would pair nicely with the book. I added a label, and made Bucket Filler or Bucket Dipper example cards to make a game for my classroom lesson. It didn’t take long to prepare, and my students responded positively to this lesson. [Click here for this free activity](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bucket-Filler-or-Bucket-Dipper-Activity-3735936?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Props%20042018). ![bucket filling lesson](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/3-1.png) # Cost Props don’t have to break the bank! In fact, they can be pretty inexpensive. If you can’t find what you’re looking for around your house, anytime you are out shopping you can be on the lookout for fun prop items. Some tried and true places to look are: Target Dollar Spot: This section is a school counselor’s dream! It is restocked often and many items are geared towards educators. Dollar Tree: Great selection of games, bags, and other visual aids. Local Thrift Store: Some of my favorite, unique, quirky props have come from thrift stores. Oriental Trading Company: Offers a wide variety of inflatables, fun holiday items, and creative games. Another option to think about when trying to cut down costs is sharing props and lesson items with other school counselors in your district. ![dollar store props for school counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/4.png) # Space School counselor offices aren’t known for being the most spacious. Due to this, it is important to be selective in what props you purchase. If not, it’s easy to have these items take over your office and take up valuable space. One of my favorite types of props is inflatables. They can enlarge for the counseling lesson but then decrease in size for storage. Inflatables are great for counseling games or can be used solely as a visual aid. For example, I used an inflatable tire as a visual aid on a lesson about attitude. The lesson was based on the quote: “A bad attitude is like a flat tire, you can’t go anywhere until you change it.” In the lesson, I discussed five ways to “pump up” a flat attitude. As each point was discussed, I placed the statement on the tire using Velcro. This prop worked as a great visual reminder of the five points I wanted my students to take away from my lesson. ![blow up tire attitude school counseling lesson](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/1.png) With office space considerations, I love props that serve more than one purpose. This [Get to Know You Icebreaker activity](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Ice-Breaker-Get-to-Know-You-Activity-for-Group-Counseling-3601753?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Props%20042018) is one that I’ve used in small group sessions, classroom lessons as brain breaks, and at the beginning of the year faculty meeting for staff. I keep this as a fun counseling decoration in my office and I am able to reuse the jar over and over again for other games and activities. ![popsicle stick ice breaker questions](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/2.png) Adding props to your school counseling program gives you a chance to have fun and be creative! Props help you make personal connections to your students by relating to them in their unique learning style. Props make it easy to make an ordinary lesson extraordinary! **Pin this for later and check out [other creative school counseling ideas!](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/craftivities/)** ![](undefined)![using props in school counseling activities](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/1-2-683x1024.png) **Categories:** Class Lessons, Counseling **Tags:** counseling activities --- ### [Planning a Successful End of the Year](https://confidentcounselors.com/successful-end-of-the-year/) **Published:** April 20, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Up, School Counselor Stephanie and Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor and 1 more **Content:** The end of the school year is approaching. Give your future self a gift by doing some prep work as the year comes to a close. These Confident Counselors are sure to tie up loose ends and so some smart prep to walk in ready the first day. What do you as you end the school year? ## Get Set for Next Year \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″ margin=”50″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/counselor-up.jpg)I like to help out my future self by tackling my [end of the year to do list](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/counselors-end-of-the-year-to-do-list). You think you’ll remember but you don’t. Coming back to an office ready for me to start my work is such a godsend. I can’t emphasize enough how much it helps! **– Rebecca at [Counselor Up](http://www.counselorup.com)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″ margin=”50″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![school counselor stephanie logo](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/SchoolCounselorStephanie.png)I use some of the downtime at the end of the year (mainly after students leave for summer break) to start implementing all the tasks on my ***“To-Dos for Next Year”*** list. Throughout the school year, I keep a running list of anything that pops up that I have an idea on how to do better the next time around. In late May and June, I start reviewing this list and prepping materials to put my ideas into action for the following year. For more tips and tricks for making your end of the year successful, see my post on this topic, [10 Year End Counseling Tips](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/2016/06/16/top-10-tips-for-wrapping-up-your-counseling-year-building-your-program/). **– [School Counselor Stephanie](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counselor-Stephanie)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″ margin=”50″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg)I tie up all loose ends before I leave for summer. I tackle everything on my to-do list so that when I come back, my mind is fresh and ready for the new school year. It is so easy to put it off because you are burnt out, but the next year runs much more smoothly if everything from the previous year is complete. I purge all materials that I will not need for the upcoming school year and set my office (and myself) up for success in the next year. I make a list of all the things I would like to accomplish quarter 1 of the next year and accomplish all that I can before I take a self-care summer break. I think it is of utmost importance to take a break and take care of myself for a bit so that I can be my best self when school starts again. **– [Mrs. Bell the Crafty Counselor ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″ margin=”50″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![School Counseling Files](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/School-Counseling-Files-Round-150x150.png)I track how I’ve spent my time all year via Google Drive, and late spring is when I gather all that data together and write my [Annual Report](https://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com/end-of-year-report.html) (an idea I saw on Marissa Rex’s website several years ago). My Google Drive pie charts also provide me with a visual on the proportion of time I’ve spent on, say, direct interventions vs. sitting in meetings, helping me advocate for my position and prioritize next year’s activities. The data helps administrators and staff really understand how much this job entails. **– [Laurie Mendoza, School Counseling Files](https://www.schoolcounselingfiles.com/)** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″ margin=”50″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] **Kate from EduKate & Inspire** has a great post on a [needs assessment](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/05/09/creating-a-school-counseling-needs-assessment-using-google-forms/) she does at the end of the year using Google Forms. **Make sure to signup for our email list for the latest school counseling posts and tips!** ![coffee convo: end of the year question](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/6-683x1024.png) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Counselor Role, Your Program **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Up, end of the year, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, School Counseling Files, School Counselor Stephanie --- ### [Keeping Kids Safe: Child Sexual Abuse Prevention in Schools](https://confidentcounselors.com/child-sexual-abuse-prevention-in-schools/) **Published:** April 23, 2018 **Author:** Speckled Moose Counseling **Content:** National Child Abuse Prevention Month is upon us and there are many things that you can do as a confident counselor to foster child sexual abuse prevention in schools. The idea of working with children who have been abused can be a scary thing for many educators. The reality of this, as a colleague often points out, is that if you work with children, you’re working with children who have been abused. Although statistics are hard to nail down due to lack of reporting, an [estimated 1 in 10 children experiences sexual abuse (direct contact) prior to the age of 18](https://www.d2l.org/the-issue/prevalence/). We also know there are many unfavorable [links between child maltreatment and academic achievement](http://www.nationalcac.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/child-maltreatment-academic-achievement.pdf). When those numbers are applied to real classrooms and students with whom we work, it can become overwhelming and emotionally exhausting. However, with the sheer number of children affected by indirect or direct sexual abuse, it’s imperative that schools address this public health issue. As schools strive towards being **trauma-informed**, here are some concrete suggestions to consider implementing for child sexual abuse prevention. # Signs and Symptoms Cynthia Monahan, in her book *[Children and Trauma: A Guide for Parents and Professionals](https://amzn.to/2JVvaox),* identifies signs and symptoms of child sexual abuse. It’s important to keep in mind that some children may not present with any signs or symptoms at all. Another critical point regarding signs and symptoms is that *even though a child’s behavior may be atypical within a school setting, it may not be an atypical response to trauma*. Children may also [demonstrate sexual behaviors](http://www.nationalcac.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/children-with-sexual-behavior-problems.pdf), and it’s critical to [understand what behaviors are and are not considered typical sexual development](http://www.tcavjohn.com/products.php). # Direct Instruction to Students Students need to be taught about abuse prevention. Topics on child sexual abuse prevention include personal body safety, safe adults, tricky people, consent, healthy boundaries, assertiveness skills, refusal skills, and secrets and surprises, to name a few. Some states have regulations or mandates on teaching about sexual abuse, with specific curricula, while others may not. ## Personal Touching Rule Students need to know that there are rules about touch and their bodies, as well as what to do if something were to happen to them. Children are often taught that no one should touch the private parts of their body, specifically the areas covered by bathing suits. If this occurs, say no, go, and tell is the instruction that children receive. Students should also know that they should not look at or touch anyone else’s private parts either, or look at pictures of other people’s bodies. Encourage children to reach out to a safe adult if someone touches them in *any way* that makes them feel weird, confused, or uncomfortable, even if it is not sexual contact. There is often a [grooming process](http://victimsofcrime.org/media/reporting-on-child-sexual-abuse/grooming-dynamic-of-csa) in child sexual abuse situations, and even if touch isn’t overtly sexual, children need to be empowered to trust their instincts and speak up when they are uncomfortable. (The same can be said for adults.) ## Consent and healthy boundaries Conversations about consent will vary based on student age and developmental level, but this is something that can be done with even young children. It’s about explaining to children that they have the right to say no, and modeling that when “no” is said, that the other person stops. In elementary schools, day-to-day peer conflict can provide the opportunity to demonstrate this idea. For example, Luke keeps poking Suzie on the rug. When Suzie reports this to the teacher, the teacher’s response can include something along the lines of: > “Luke, Suzie is telling you that she doesn’t like the way you’re touching her body. She gets to decide what she’s ok with. You need to stop. Suzie, thank you for telling me that you were uncomfortable.” Another example might include students hugging each other. Sometimes it’s very clear when kids are comfortable with this, but model consent with statements like, > “Suzie, are you ok with Luke hugging you right now? If not, you can tell him to stop.” The same can be said for adult-to-child interactions in asking children if and how they would like to receive touch or physical affection. For example, if Luke gave his teacher a gift, she might respond with a statement like > “Luke, thank you for thinking of me. Is it ok if I give you a hug, a high five, or something else…?” ## Secrets and surprises Distinguishing between secrets and surprises is another lesson for students to learn. Secrets are things we are asked to keep private, but they make us feel weird and yucky inside. On the other hand, surprises are things that we keep private, but they are fun and exciting. This is a powerful lesson and can be reinforced throughout the school year by all school staff. Working on a special Mother’s Day project? Emphasize to students that this is something to keep private since it’s a fun *surprise*. A peer tells them about bullying behavior they are experiencing on the bus? Point out to kids that’s a *secret* they must tell to keep someone safe. ## Safe adults and tricky people Direct instruction with children should include thinking about safe adults in their lives. [90% of child sexual abuse victims know their perpetrator](https://www.d2l.org/the-issue/statistics/). Encourage children to think of school staff, extended family members, and/or other community members who may be safe adults. Ask them who they could talk to if they don’t feel comfortable sharing with a parent or guardian. Who do they trust? Who feels safe to them? Who could help them if someone was being hurt? On a related note, tricky people might be someone that kids know a lot, a little, or not at all. They might say or do things that make kids feel weird or uncomfortable, or ask children to do things to “help” them when inappropriate to do so (think lost puppy at the park). Children can be taught to evaluate what someone is saying, doing, and asking, and how that makes them feel. Anyone who asks a child to break safety rules or do something unsafe can be considered a tricky person, regardless of how well the child knows him/her. ## ![Child Sexual Abuse Prevention in Schools](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Because-It-shouldnt-hurt-CC-blog-image.jpg) ## Encourage conversation about safety For many reasons, children may fear that they will get in trouble for disclosing. Sometimes perpetrators implicitly or explicitly threaten children. It’s important that children understand that they can talk to safe adults without the fear of the adult being mad at them. Let your students know that your counseling space is a place where they can share anything they want. Encourage your colleagues and classroom teachers to explicitly tell children that they will never be mad if they have a safety issue they would like to share with them. Provide them with additional opportunities to share information with you without having to verbally share, perhaps by a “note to the counselor” or “something I want you to know” jar. ## Learning about feelings As always, counselors and educators can help children express and manage their feelings. There are a variety of curricula and counseling techniques available to promote feelings identification, expression, and management for children of all ages. The idea of sharing about feelings may be new to many students, and schools offer many opportunities to enhance children’s social and emotional wellbeing. By helping children learn the language of emotions and the skills to manage them, you are giving them an empowering gift and lifelong skill. # Educate parents and families Educate parents and staff about child sexual abuse prevention and the ways they can help to keep kids safe. Share your knowledge with other stakeholders to bridge the gap between school instruction and home. It may be as simple as sending home a sheet that reviews the sexual abuse prevention topics covered in class, as explained above, or perhaps present to parents during an evening workshop. Families can be encouraged to teach their children the anatomically correct names for body parts, and reinforce topics taught in school. They may need help on [how to talk with their kids](https://www.rainn.org/articles/talking-your-kids-about-sexual-assault). It’s beneficial for children to have ongoing conversations with family members about safety in a calm manner. Children will benefit from consistent messages, and understanding that there are adults available to support them. # Engage with community providers Reach out to community agencies about their outreach and education programs for child sexual abuse prevention. Many [child advocacy centers](http://www.nationalcac.org/find-a-cac/) offer prevention education programs for children or adults. Take them up on this, especially if colleagues are uncomfortable speaking with children and families about child sexual abuse or other abuse-related topics. There may be programming options for students, presentations for parents and families, or professional development for staff. This can be a great opportunity to raise community awareness while empowering students, families, and school staff with facts. Not to mention, these programs are often cost-effective, if not free! Additionally, be familiar with your community resources and referral options. Make the connections for students and families to work with individuals who are experts in the field of child sexual abuse for ongoing counseling and family support. Developing relationships with these service providers will go a long way to getting families connected with services. Children need advocates, and it’s our role as counselors to help ensure that their voices are heard and their needs are being met. # Professional development Counselors are always learning, and there are many terrific professional development opportunities on child sexual abuse prevention. Check out [free resources available](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/04/freeschoolcounselingresources/) to you, and although school counselors do not provide therapy services, you may find this [course on trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy](https://tfcbt2.musc.edu) helpful. # Disclosures Despite our best efforts at prevention, there will come a time when you hear a disclosure of sexual abuse. When this happens, it’s imperative to understand your policies, procedures, and state laws. Make the report that you need to per your state laws to the appropriate authorities. Unfortunately, sometimes counselors need to educate those within the school system who may not be following best practices. Years ago, a trainer suggested that the first interview should be the last interview. Well-meaning adults often inadvertently interfere with interviews and/or investigations. Although difficult to sit with a child’s disclosure, try to maintain the perspective that a student trusted you with this information, and that you can be a light in their dark experience. As always, obtain appropriate supervision to process your own response. # Prevention Efforts Year Round Although April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, child sexual abuse prevention conversations and strategies are most effective when implemented and encouraged year round. Counselors play a powerful role in prevention and education, and no responsibility is as great as the safety of our students. ![Child Sexual Abuse Prevention in Schools](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Pinterest-Child-Sexual-Abuse-Prevention.jpg) **Categories:** Crisis Response, Your Program **Tags:** child sexual abuse prevention, mandated reporting, trauma --- ### [5 School Counseling Activities Using Pipe Cleaners](https://confidentcounselors.com/pipe-cleaner-crafts/) **Published:** April 30, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Keri **Content:** Pipe cleaners are one of my go-to craft supplies for the counseling office. They’re so versatile, easy to store, and students love to create things with them or just keep their hands busy. While they are great for demonstrating flexibility, they have so many more uses from keeping students’ fingers busy to tracking progress toward goals. Keep reading to find pipe cleaner crafts that your students will love! ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Copy-of-Hearts-Apart-Deployment-Group.png) # Pipe Cleaner Crafts for School Counseling ## Pipe Cleaner Fidgets To make a pencil fidget, simply wrap a pipe cleaner around the pencil for sensory engagement. This is so simple, but students love the added texture! If you want to add a bead, add a piece of tape to both ends of the pipe cleaner so the bead doesn’t fall off. Students can push the bead up and down the pipe cleaner spiral to use as a fidget. For another simple fidget tool, string some beads onto a pipe cleaner and tape the ends to a short craft stick. Be sure to leave some space on the pipe cleaner so that the students can push the beads up and down. They can also just roll the beads under their fingers. These are small enough that they can be easily store in desks or pockets. ![Help your students self monitor their progress towards goals, track feelings, manage worries and more with these pipe cleaner crafts that are perfect for school counseling!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Copy-of-Hearts-Apart-Deployment-Group-3-300x169.png) ## Goal Tracking Bracelets Give your student a pipe cleaner to use as a bracelet. Each time she meets a goal, let her choose a bead to add to the bracelet. The bracelet and beads will serve as a visual reminder of what she’s working toward and the progress she has already made! ![Help your students self monitor their progress towards goals, track feelings, manage worries and more with these pipe cleaner crafts that are perfect for school counseling!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Untitled-design-7-200x300.png) ## Self-Monitoring Gauges Create a [pipe cleaner gauge](https://www.counselorkeri.com/2018/03/05/pipe-cleaners-for-school-counseling/) to monitor progress toward goals, identify steps in a process, or show feelings. Make your gauge on paper, and punch holes at the top and bottom of the scale. Put a bead on the pipe cleaner, and insert both ends of the pipe cleaner into the holes of the paper and tape them down on the back. Students can slide the bead to show their [progress toward the goal](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/goal-setting-classroom-guidance-lesson-for-early-elementary-primary) they’re working on. Or, students can visually represent what step they are on in a given process, like [resolving a conflict](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/conflict-resolution-classroom-guidance-lesson-for-early-elementary-primary). They can also use a gauge to show others [how they are feeling](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Feelings-Gage-Easily-Identify-Feelings-with-an-Emotion-Scale-3676327?utm_source=CC%20%7C%20Pipe%20Cleaners&utm_campaign=Feelings%20Slider). ![Help your students self monitor their progress towards goals, track feelings, manage worries and more with these pipe cleaner crafts that are perfect for school counseling!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Copy-of-Hearts-Apart-Deployment-Group-2-300x169.png) ## Worry Dolls This idea came from [Laura at Play Dr. Hutch](http://blog.playdrhutch.com/2012/10/01/make-your-own-worry-dolls/). On her post, she shows how to make worry dolls using pipe cleaners. She cuts her pipe cleaners in half and makes one worry doll with one pipe cleaner. These are great to make with students in individual counseling or [small group counseling](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/worry-warriors-group-counseling-program-for-worry-and-anxiety-management). Students can keep the worry dolls with them at school and at home and tell them all of their worries. ![Help your students self monitor their progress towards goals, track feelings, manage worries and more with these pipe cleaner crafts that are perfect for school counseling!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Copy-of-Hearts-Apart-Deployment-Group-4-300x169.png) Do you have other pipe cleaner crafts you like to make with your counseling students? Let us know in the comments. And if you’re a crafty counselor too, you’ll love these other [Confident Counselor craft ideas](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/craftivities/)! ![Help your students self monitor their progress towards goals, track feelings, manage worries and more with these pipe cleaner crafts that are perfect for school counseling!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Using-Pipe-Cleaners-in-School-Counseling-2.png) SaveSave **Categories:** Counsel It Yourself (CIY), Quick Activities **Tags:** counseling activities, crafts --- ### [13 Reasons Why: Update for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/13-reasons-why-season-2/) **Published:** May 16, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Up **Content:** **13 Reasons Why** is a book, and more popularly, a Netflix show about the suicide of a high school student, Hannah, and the tapes she left behind for her fellow students about the time leading up to her death. The first season was released in Spring 2017 and you can read more about my thoughts on [Season 1.](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/13-reasons-why-school-counselors-should-be-talking-about-this-show) Season 2 of the show is set to air Friday, May 18th, 2018. This season, Netflix has added a warning before each episode about the sensitive material and PSAs from cast members about mental health resources. The second season is expected to add more to the Hannah narrative and to follow the aftermath of Jessica’s rape. In possible good news for school counselors, Mr. Porter, the counselor who knew about Hannah’s suicidal ideation but did nothing “will be coming to terms with the way that he let Hannah down and will be determined not to let any kids down in the future. His story is one of the most compelling to me. We’ll see a man who is determined to reach every kid who needs to be reached and help every kid who needs to be helped, whatever it takes” ([The Hollywood Reporter](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/13-reasons-why-season-2-wont-depict-suicide-will-explore-sexual-assault-trial-1105172)). ## Tips for 13 Reasons Why, Season 2 Make sure that all staff in your building know the **referral process** for students that may disclose to them. If your school does not have policies and procedures for **preventing suicide**, talk with your school level leaders to put one in place. Check out our [Suicide Prevention Best Practices](https://confidentcounselors.com/?s=suicide) for more ideas. Communicate with parents about the release of season 2 and encourage them to **preview the show** before allowing their children to watch it. **Share the resource** [13reasonswhy.info](https://13reasonswhy.info/) with parents and other adults who support students. Check out the [13 Reasons Why **discussion guide.**](http://13reasonswhy.info/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/13-Reasons-Why-Season-1-Discussion-Guide.compressed.pdf) [Some suicide prevention apps](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/suicide-prevention-apps/) can be a useful tool for parents who need more information about suicide prevention. Review the [13 Reasons Why **ASCA** page.](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/school-counselors/professional-development/learn-more/13-reasons-why-resources) **Advocate for the role** of school counselors in your building. Don’t let Mr. Porter be the model for school counseling that comes to students’, parents’, teachers’, and administrators’ minds. Have your students been talking about Season 2? Whether we’re ready or not, it’s coming. #### **How are you planning to respond proactively to support your students?** ![13 Reasons Why. Season 2 Tips for School Counselors and School Staff](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/13-Reasons-Why-pin.png) **Categories:** Crisis Response, Your Program **Tags:** media, suicide prevention --- ### [7 Creative Discussion Starters for School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/creative-school-counseling-discussion-starters/) **Published:** May 21, 2018 **Author:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials **Content:** Struggling with ways to get students engaged and participating in group counseling? Discussion starters are a great way to hook students in, reinforce group norms, and introduce new topics. They are also flexible so you can use them at any grade level. Working in a middle school, I find that kids become much more focused and attentive when they have something in their hands when we are in a counseling group. Practically speaking, having an item also helps our rule: *One Person Speaks At A Time.* My students know that only the person holding the item can talk. In addition, it helps me to know if everyone has shared their thoughts or ideas. I can look around the table and see who has a question and who does not. These 7 creative discussion starters are my favorite ways to get students talking and meaningfully participating in group counseling. ## Task Cards I use a lot of question task cards. I’ll either have the students pick one as they are passed around the table or I will let the last person to share pick who goes next. My favorite task cards are my [Group Conversation Cards](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Group-Conversation-Starters-3311970?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Discussion%20Starters) because they have questions for five different group topics: study skills, self-esteem, bullying, behavior, and leadership. ![discussion starters for students with executive function difficulties.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/5-300x300.jpg) ## Ping Pong Balls But, I like to mix things up, so I won’t use task cards each time. I have a basket of [ping pong balls](https://amzn.to/2k2FBec) *(affiliate link)* with questions written on them. These make great get-to-know-you icebreakers, but you can also add any question to them if you are working on a specific theme. For example, if I was talking about empathy, I would write questions like “What is empathy?” or “How can you show you are empathetic to someone having a bad day?”. ![Ping pong balls are great discussion starters for school counselors.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/1-2-300x300.jpg) ## Wooden Spoons One of my favorite lessons, [Enemy Pie](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Enemy-Pie-30-Minutes-or-less-Lesson-Plan-1202935?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Discussion%20Starters), I use spoons with questions on them to discuss the book after it is read. Kids LOVE the spoons. I keep them in a mug and just pass the mug around the group and each student will pull one and answer it. ![Wooden spoon school counseling discussion starters.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/8-300x300.jpg) ## Wooden Dice I found wooden dice in a craft store and of course, I had to buy them. They probably sat in my drawer for a year, but then I decided to attach scrapbook paper with mod podge, write questions on them, and then coat with another layer of mod podge. I love to use these in my social skills groups and also with individual students. With a group, I would have the students roll 2 dice. One has directions, and the other has questions. Directions include ask the person on your left, ask the person across the table from you, ask the person on your right, roll again, roll twice, or answer the question yourself. Once again, you can have targeted questions about specific topics or general get to know you questions. This can be fun to talk about college and career options. ![cubes with question prompts for school counseling discussion starters](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/3-300x300.jpg) ## Popsicle Sticks Popsicle sticks work well too. I like the tongue depressor size, plus if I ask nicely my school nurse will generally give me a stack! I throw a coat of acrylic paint on them, write the question with a Sharpie marker, and add a thin layer of mod podge. I use different colors for different topics and the color helps me to pick the questions I want. ![popsicle sticks with question prompts for school counseling discussion starters](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/4-300x300.jpg) ## Fortune Tellers Fortune Tellers are another fun way to discuss topics. I used these just before state testing to talk about [Growth Mindset](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Group-Conversation-Starters-3311970?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Discussion%20Starters). ![fortune tellers make great school counseling discussion starters.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/7-300x300.jpg) ## Beach Balls Last but not least, I like to use beach balls. I can usually find them pretty cheap at Target in the Dollar Spot. Just blow it up, write your questions in permanent marker, and toss! I usually have students answer the question that is under their right thumb. The best part about beach balls is they deflate and they don’t take up a lot of storage room. ![Beach ball for discussion starter](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/2-2-300x300.jpg) #### **I hope this has given you some ideas. If you have other creative ideas, I would love to hear them!** **Categories:** Group Counseling **Tags:** discussion starters --- ### [Trauma-Sensitive Approach to Mother's Day Activities](https://confidentcounselors.com/trauma-sensitive-mothers-day-activities/) **Published:** May 2, 2018 **Author:** Little Miss Counselor **Content:** Mother’s Day is a special holiday where many of us show gratitude for the love, support, and care that’s been received throughout our lives. It makes me think of flowers, breakfast-in-bed, hugs, and sunshine. However, for some students, it’s a painful reminder of loss or even traumatic memories. It is important that we are using and advocating for trauma-sensitive mother’s day activities. Let’s face it, not everyone has the world’s best mom, so as trauma-sensitive educators, it’s important to pick activities that will not bring more pain to our students. While it’s nice to host Mother’s Day Tea, write poems, and decorate cards, school personnel need to remember that the word mom doesn’t mean the same thing to everyone. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/44be585e-ab33-4da1-9544-2f2c9e4e7ec9_pasted20image200.png) I can’t help but think of my students with high adverse childhood experiences scores (ACEs) such as the ones in foster care, students away from their moms due to death, substance abuse, incarceration, or other traumatic events. These students have been through enough, so how can we help them? Part of being trauma-informed means approaching our well-intended celebrations and activities with sensitivity. It should also push us to consider what we want students to learn from the experience. ## Trauma-Sensitive Mother’s Day Activities #### Celebrations Ask teachers when their Mother’s Day celebrations are. Offer a safe place for students to go if they need to opt out of an activity. Propose an alternate activity or writing prompt for students who may need it. Ask a staff member to partner up with a student during Mother’s Day celebrations. Consider changing the name from “*Muffins with Mom*” to something that all students can appreciate. My school recently changed our breakfast with moms event to “Family Appreciation Breakfast”. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/724d65b7-13d8-411e-887f-c2baab287be5_pasted20image200.png) #### Books Display a variety of titles on your book display list that includes diverse family situations. [Click here](https://www.amazon.com/shop/influencer-bc012b62) or on the pictures to see any of the books. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/38b0fd64-eba3-4ca2-a67e-c3b422091e66_pasted20image200-300x300.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/trauma-sensitive-mothers-day-activities/38b0fd64-eba3-4ca2-a67e-c3b422091e66_pasted20image200/) Llama Llama Mad at Mama [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/c0489fd2-f7c0-4214-8677-df958c176ee4_pasted20image200-300x260.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/trauma-sensitive-mothers-day-activities/c0489fd2-f7c0-4214-8677-df958c176ee4_pasted20image200/) Tell Me Again [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/c0eaaef1-d007-4ac1-969a-d4eea80c5607_pasted20image200-300x300.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/trauma-sensitive-mothers-day-activities/c0eaaef1-d007-4ac1-969a-d4eea80c5607_pasted20image200/) Living with Mom and Living with Dad [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/94c965de-6ead-42e1-955b-c6e0becc3dcc_pasted20image200-300x300.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/trauma-sensitive-mothers-day-activities/94c965de-6ead-42e1-955b-c6e0becc3dcc_pasted20image200/) Just Grandma, Grandpa, and Me [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/9e05b5e7-3c0d-407e-b127-731ed3660969_pasted20image200-300x300.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/trauma-sensitive-mothers-day-activities/9e05b5e7-3c0d-407e-b127-731ed3660969_pasted20image200/) Me with You [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/f525ea2c-4713-4896-9c80-fdc52a10aacc_pasted20image200-300x300.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/trauma-sensitive-mothers-day-activities/f525ea2c-4713-4896-9c80-fdc52a10aacc_pasted20image200/) Are You My Mother? [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/2fffa2e4-fb85-42c8-abca-c39a2d401e8f_pasted20image200-300x300.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/trauma-sensitive-mothers-day-activities/2fffa2e4-fb85-42c8-abca-c39a2d401e8f_pasted20image200/) The I Love you Book [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/d77d41b1-d353-4db7-b326-23da4aaf28d1_pasted20image200-234x300.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/trauma-sensitive-mothers-day-activities/d77d41b1-d353-4db7-b326-23da4aaf28d1_pasted20image200/) How to Raise a Mom [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/6106c5d8-271a-4ae4-8a41-7a64d0b32850_pasted20image200-300x300.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/trauma-sensitive-mothers-day-activities/6106c5d8-271a-4ae4-8a41-7a64d0b32850_pasted20image200/) The Invisible String *(affiliate links)* #### Give Choice Don’t force a child to make something for a stepparent or another person. Instead, allow him/her to decide who to make something for. ![mother's day card and tulips](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/73949556-83f0-4376-bbb3-b4b51387ceff_pasted20image200.png) Use writing prompts that allow the student to write out who they’re writing about rather than ones that only say mom on it. Here’s a fun [fill-in-the-blank activity](https://modernparentsmessykids.com/printable-fill-blank-card/) that allows students to choose in who they’re writing about. #### [![trauma sensitive mothers day book ](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/d4bb65bf-cd32-4103-8f2e-95263b4dfb78_pasted20image200.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Garden-of-Moms-A-Story-of-Healing-for-Early-Readers-3774958?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Trauma%20Sensitive%20Mothers%20Day) #### Counseling Activities Looking for a group activity or a story to read while students get a reprieve from Mother’s Day festivities? Here’s one I wrote called, [The Garden of Moms: A Story of Healing for Early Readers](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Garden-of-Moms-A-Story-of-Healing-for-Early-Readers-3774958?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Trauma%20Sensitive%20Mothers%20Day). It discusses different kinds of mothers and family situations using a garden metaphor. [![the garden of moms: trauma sensitive mother's day activities](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/18aca4da-75bd-4115-8aec-d21351e70068_pasted20image200.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Garden-of-Moms-A-Story-of-Healing-for-Early-Readers-3774958?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Trauma%20Sensitive%20Mothers%20Day) It’s perfect for children who have a mom who is near or far, one who has died, is deployed, or in prison. The book also describes moms who are loving, moms that are tough to be close to, grandma/stepmom/foster parents, and adoptive parents. The story teaches kids that they are valuable and their worth has nothing to do with whether mom is near, far, or not present at all. I hope you enjoy these easy to implement ideas that are trauma-sensitive. Together we can bring healing to our students who have endured adverse childhood experiences by demonstrating that we are compassionate school professionals. While it may not be sunshine and roses for everybody, my wish is that we can bring growth and healing to those who need it the most. [su_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider_color=”#af1c1c” link_color=”#000000″ margin=”50″] [su_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider_color=”#af1c1c” link_color=”#000000″][/su_divider] **What activities do you do with students during holidays like Mother’s Day and Father’s Day?** ![trauma informed mothers day activities](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/2-3-683x1024.png) **Categories:** Parents, Your Program **Tags:** events, mother's day, trauma --- ### [How Do You Collaborate with Specialists?](https://confidentcounselors.com/collaborating-with-specialists/) **Published:** June 4, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Chelsey and Carol Miller Counseling Essentials **Content:** Collaborating with specialists, such as speech and language pathologists, can help maximize student progress. When everyone working with a student is on the same page, you can reinforce and practice skills in different settings and with different people. Some schools have regular meetings, and some make it a point to stop by someone’s office. The key to collaborating with specialists in your building is communicating consistently. ## Regular Check-Ins [![Counselor Chelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/5.png "Counselor Chelsey")](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-chelsey/) Collaborating with other specialists in your building is so important. One of my favorite ways to do this is to check in with them at least once a week. I usually like to talk briefly about the students on both of our caseloads. This way, I can get updates on their progress with the specialist, and the specialist can get updates on their progress with me. Like the teachers, when the specialists know which specific skills you are working on with students, they can help you reinforce them. A weekly check-in also allows us to collaborate and brainstorm challenges with particular students. I have found this collaboration to be invaluable, especially when working with particularly challenging students. ## Teamwork & Consistency [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/16.png "16")](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/carol-miller-counseling-essentials/) I am lucky to work with a fantastic group of specialists. While many of them are only in our building once or twice a week for a small portion of the day, we do check in with one another, and email is a great way to share info and ideas. Our SLP has great ideas for helping me work with a student in our building who has selective mutism. If she knows that I lack them, she’ll share articles, links, and resources that will help. Our mental health team meets weekly for about two hours. It’s a great check-in to see where referrals are, who can do a classroom observation, meet with a student, and generate ideas when working with students with intensive needs. The best tip I can give anyone about working with specialists is to communicate regularly, whether you see the specialist or not. Set up an automated email that goes out once a week, once a month, or once a quarter as a check-in. It doesn’t have to say much, but a “how’s it going with our student?” can go a long way. **Categories:** Collaboration, Counselor Chats **Tags:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials, CC tips, Counselor Chelsey --- ### [How Centers Can Transform Your Classroom Guidance Lessons](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-centers/) **Published:** May 23, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Keri **Content:** I don’t know about you, but my counseling grad program didn’t spend a lot of time focusing on whole classroom instruction. I was ready for individual counseling. I was sooo ready for group counseling. But I was *totally not ready* to be standing in front of a group of 30 (a whole other issue…) students for a classroom guidance lesson! After some observation and reflection, I decided to add [school counseling centers](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/school-counseling-centers-over-50-activities-for-centers-in-school-counseling) to my classroom guidance lineup. It worked well for me, and it can work well for you to transform your classroom guidance lessons and provide meaningful learning opportunities for your students! # School Counseling Centers ## What Are They? If you’re unfamiliar with centers, students are basically moving through learning stations with different activities during your counseling class period. For example, if you’re covering [stress management](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/stress-management-coping-skills-classroom-guidance-lesson-for-school-counseling), your students may visit centers about organizing and planning, reaching out to supports, exercising, etc. Each center is separated in the room so that students can focus on their particular station and also move logically through a sequence to the next center when it’s time to rotate. ![Give your large whole group classroom guidance lessons a small group counseling feel by using school counseling centers in your lessons! Use a quick mini lesson before breaking into small groups for center exploration.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/2-5-300x167.png) ## Do What Works When I first dove into classroom guidance, I needed something to create a comfort zone for this group-counseling-loving counselor. I paid attention to how teachers were managing their classrooms and what was working for them. Almost every teacher in my school was using centers very effectively. No need to reinvent the wheel, right? The students were already familiar with the set up, so it was easy to modify my content to fit the center format that was already in place in the classroom. Find a teacher in your setting who has great classroom management and an effective center set up, and model yours after that! ## Setting Up Your School Counseling Centers Your centers may look different depending on your class period or the frequency with which you see your students. For a 45 minute class period, try the following format: begin the lesson by doing a 5-10 minute mini lesson with a read-aloud or simple demonstration to introduce a topic or concept. Then students break out into smaller groups to explore activities related to your topic at centers. Students spend 5-10 minutes at each center depending on the number of activities. Finally, the lesson wraps up with a 5-10 minute debrief. Here’s an example schedule for [friendship centers](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/friendship-centers-friendship-activities-for-school-counseling): - Warm up (read *How to be a Friend*): 5 min - Review center details: 5 min - Center 1 – Qualities I want in a friend: 5 min - Center 2 – Qualities I bring to a friendship: 5 min - Center 3 – What I like to do with friends: 5 min - Center 4 – What friendship means to me: 5 min - Center 5 – Friendship dilemmas: 5 min - Debrief/wrap-up: 5-10 min ![Give your large whole group classroom guidance lessons a small group counseling feel by using school counseling centers in your lessons! Use a quick mini lesson before breaking into small groups for center exploration.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/1-3.png) ## Cut the Chaos Because students are largely on their own while using centers, there are plenty of opportunities for chaos. But with some preparation and pre-teaching, you can control the chaos and maximize engagement! Like I mentioned before, use a center format that your students are already familiar with. Then, spend time explicitly teaching the process anyway. Show your students exactly what they’ll be doing at each center and remind them what is expected during activities and during transitions. Use a clear signal to let students know when it’s time to move to a new center, and provide all of the necessary materials for each center so that students don’t have to move with supplies. ![Give your large whole group classroom guidance lessons a small group counseling feel by using school counseling centers in your lessons! Use a quick mini lesson before breaking into small groups for center exploration.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/4-300x167.png) ## Why it Works Centers can be an effective classroom management tool because every student is participating and moving. There are fewer opportunity for any one or small group of students to sink into the back and not participate. And students are engaged and learning because activities at centers are short, time-limited, hands-on, and highly focused. As your students rotate, you can spend time with smaller groups of students to reinforce concepts and build relationships. Your large group classroom guidance will be instantly transformed into a small group atmosphere! Are you already using [centers in your school counseling](https://mailchi.mp/44c0dd44dc4b/101-ideas-for-school-counseling-centers) program? What works for you? Let us know in the comments! And if you’re not using them yet, [check out this post](https://www.counselorkeri.com/2018/05/02/school-counseling-centers/) for more information about setting up successful school counseling centers! ![Give your large whole group classroom guidance lessons a small group counseling feel by using school counseling centers in your lessons! Use a quick mini lesson before breaking into small groups for center exploration.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/1-4-200x300.png) ![Give your large whole group classroom guidance lessons a small group counseling feel by using school counseling centers in your lessons! Use a quick mini lesson before breaking into small groups for center exploration.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/2-6-200x300.png) ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ACS_0352-300x300.jpg) ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ACS_0349-300x300.jpg) **Categories:** Class Lessons, Group Counseling **Tags:** centers, classroom lessons --- ### [Successful Transition from Elementary to Middle School](https://confidentcounselors.com/middle-school-transition/) **Published:** June 1, 2018 **Author:** The DIY Counselor **Content:** Moving from elementary school to middle school has its challenges. It can be scary and super exciting at the same time! The School Counselor’s role is vital in providing a positive middle school transition for students and parents. Partner with admin, fellow counseling staff, elementary level staff, and students to develop a comprehensive transition plan with many points of contact. Some schools use a peer mentoring program to facilitate the transition. Other schools focus primarily on the sixth-grade transition. Your transition focus should be based on the needs of your school. Communicate a schedule of transition activities through social media, school calendar, and district website to inform parents. Publicize transition events in community newspapers and through parent/teacher groups. Host parent meetings, open houses, and transition workshops. A supportive middle school transition is possible with collaboration and communication and will address common concerns of procedures, academics, and social interactions. ![Middle school transition ideas and activities](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/2-3.jpg) ## **Middle School Transition: Procedures** > *How do I find my classes? When is lunch? How do I manage my locker?* These are the types of worries middle schoolers have before they ever step into the building. How are these concerns addressed? From *When can I go to the restroom?* to W*hat do I need for P. E. class?*, students need to know specifics. Because every school operates differently, a new student handout with FAQs about specific middle school concerns would be beneficial in addressing these areas. Plan an orientation/transition day (or half day) that allows students to be in the school. Students are able to tour the school, visit the gym and cafeteria, practice using a combination lock, and learn how to navigate drop off and pick up. ## **![Middle school transition ideas and activities](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/3-1.jpg)Middle School Transition: Academics** Academic concerns trigger stress for many students. > *How much homework will I have?* Multiple teachers, subjects, and schedules are a lot to navigate. > *How am I going to manage six classes?* Have a new student open house for prospective students. Present curriculum and course information to parents. Have academic demonstrations for each content area for parents and students to observe during the open house. Provide parents with information about tutoring, organizational skills, and study skills training available through the school and the counseling program. Make sure parents and students know who to contact about any academic concerns. ## **Middle School Transition: Social Interactions** Students moving into middle school are concerned about social issues. Bullying is a huge concern. Friendships change. Students are at various levels of development, which affects their ability to solve problems and handle conflict. Social concerns cause students stress and anxiety, affecting academic development too. Inform students and parents of your referral process for counseling services. Give specific information about your bullying prevention and intervention program. Promote extracurricular activity opportunities to help students find a place to belong. Offer small groups or workshops to address conflict, friendships, and decision making. Introduce your counseling services to parents through a Coffee With the Counselor event. The middle school transition can be a positive experience that builds community among the new students. Promote a collaborative effort that builds positive relationships with parents, teachers, and students. Some free resources to help schools and parents are available from [Great Schools](https://www.greatschools.org/pdfs/trans_midschool_kids.pdf), [NEA,](http://www.nea.org/tools/16657.htm) [United Way](https://www.unitedwayglv.org/UnitedWay/media/CommunitySchoolsToolkit/Best%20Practices/Strategies-for-Successful-Elementary-to-Middle-School-Transitions.pdf?ext=.pdf), and [Parent Toolkit.](http://www.parenttoolkit.com/grade-levels/middle-school) \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″ margin=”50″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ![Middle school transition ideas and activities](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/2-5.jpg) **Categories:** Class Lessons, Your Program **Tags:** Middle School, transition --- ### [School Counselor Summer To-Do List](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselor-summer-to-do-list/) **Published:** June 15, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Keri, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor and The Responsive Counselor and 2 more **Content:** What’s on your school counselor summer to-do list? I always have to take a step back when my list gets to be a mile long and really focus my attention on my top two or three. Then again, these ideas from five Confident Counselors have me adding some on to that list. 😉 #### **Organizing School Counseling Centers** My summer to-do list involves lots of **fun**, a bit of **learning**, and some **organizing**. I am looking forward to spending quality time with my family and trying a few new things myself in an effort to engage in more **intentional, quality self care**. I am also planning on reading some **professional development and personal growth books** with other school counselors. Lastly, I’ll be spending some time organizing, laminating, and storing the many, many things I printed for **school [counseling centers](https://www.counselorkeri.com/2018/05/02/school-counseling-centers/)** over the last few months! >> Keri from [Counselor Keri](https://counselorkeri.com) #### **Taking Advantage of the Time** Summer for me is all about balance! I love to take advantage of the time off and the nice weather, while also **taking advantage of the time** I have to plan and prepare for the back to school season! I will be taking a few vacations and hopefully spending a lot of outside **time with my daughter and husband**! I also plan on reading a **few books** that have been on my list for a long time, and making sure I have **everything ready** to make this back to school season the best one yet! Summer for me is such a great time to learn about new topics and ideas and spend time doing the things that I don’t have as much time for during the school year! >> Chelsey from [CounselorChelsey](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselorchelsey) #### Small Groups & Program Management Agreement My summer time is a blend of playing with my own two kids and time preparing for the new school year. This summer I’m focusing on **prepping for small groups** that I anticipate running. Those are often the last thing I have time to plan for once the school year has started and it feels awesome to have them prepped ahead of time. My school is formally rolling out **MTSS for behavior** so I anticipate getting to run even more this coming year. I will also be working this summer on our **program management agreement** to help me start the year strong (I wrote a little bit more about why I think these are so important [**here**](http://www.theresponsivecounselor.com/2016/08/the-power-of-annual-agreement.html)). I have the opportunity of being the first school counselor in a brand new building and I’m excited to build an amazing program! >> Sara from [The Responsive Counselo](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Theresponsivecounselor)r [![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/TheCounselingTeacher.png "TheCounselingTeacher")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TCT%20Icon) Brandy #### **Family Self Care to Recharge** I like to focus on **self-care** for the entire family during the summer. It’s a time to catch up on any **wellness check-ups**, dental cleanings, and any other things that may have been neglected during the school year. I plan out **healthy meals** that I don’t have as much time to create during the school year. We take a **family trip** every year for a week of relaxation. The best part is choosing where to go and taking a family vote. Summer needs to be a time to **recharge and take care of yourself** so that you don’t burn out during the school year. >> [The Counseling Teacher Brandy](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TCT%20Icon) #### June is Self Care, July is Prep Time My summer to do list includes lots of **self care** and **family time**. I prefer to spend the entire month of June focusing solely on my family, friends and getting done all of the personal things I have been putting off during the school year. Once I am relaxed and recharged, I take **July to start planning for the upcoming school year**. I like to plan out at least the first quarter of the year and get myself prepared to go back to work. While I like to plan for school in July, I also like to get **back to my school routine** so that it isn’t a shock to my senses when I have to go back. I make sure I wake up early, get to the gym, and healthy meal preps. >> [Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor) Summer is the perfect time to prep for the Fall, take care of your physical and mental health, and slow down a bit. We hope you have a restful and productive summer and that school counselor to-do list is short. **What’s on your to do list? Travel plans, prep work, professional development?** **[10 MORE tips to prepare for the school year this summer. ](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/07/17/10-school-counselor-summer-prep/)** ![school counselor summer to do list](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/4.png "4") School Counselor Summer To Do Lists **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Counselor Role, Your Program **Tags:** back to school, CC tips, Counselor Chelsey, Counselor Keri, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, The Counseling Teacher Brandy, The Responsive Counselor --- ### [Tips for Presenting Guidance Data to Staff](https://confidentcounselors.com/presenting-guidance-data/) **Published:** June 22, 2018 **Author:** EduKate & Inspire **Content:** Presenting guidance data is a great way to help your school understand what your program does, the impact you have had, and where you intend to grow. It can be a bit overwhelming, so Kate from [EduKate & Inspire](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire) breaks down how she shares data with teachers using Google forms. ## Sharing Data with Google Forms I share my counseling data with staff members and stakeholders at the end of each school year. I use a Google Form to track my individual counseling data throughout the school year. Through the forms, I track the number of students referred by classroom, grade level, and gender. I also track the referral source (i.e., teacher, parent, self-referred) and the reason for the referral (i.e., anger, sadness, family concern, peer issue). At the end of the school year, I create graphs of all of my individual counseling data and add these graphs to a Google Doc. I also share data about the number of small groups conducted during the year, as well as the number of classroom lessons that were presented. A key piece of information that I also share is the percentage of students who received individual counseling services and small group services. For example, this school year, 34% of our student body received individual counseling services and 22% of students received small group counseling services. I find that sharing my counseling data in a Google Doc gives staff members and stakeholders a good visual representation and summary of our counseling services. To see a walkthrough of the data I share with my staff, visit my Instagram Highlights at [@EduKateInspire](https://www.instagram.com/edukateinspire/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/IMG_3193-1024x1006.jpg)](https://www.instagram.com/edukateinspire/) **Check out Kate’s other post on [using Google Forms to conduct a school counseling needs assessment](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/05/09/creating-a-school-counseling-needs-assessment-using-google-forms/).** ![Presenting guidance data to teachers and administration is a great way for school counselors to share the effectiveness of their counseling programs.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/2-1.png) **Categories:** Collaboration, Data **Tags:** advocacy, CC tips, data --- ### [How to Help New Students Make a Smooth Transition](https://confidentcounselors.com/help-new-students/) **Published:** July 11, 2018 **Author:** The DIY Counselor **Content:** Have you ever been the new kid? I had to change schools in fifth grade due to school zoning changes, leaving all my friends and the only school I had ever attended. As a result, I can recall the uncertainty I had about starting over with strangers in an unfamiliar place. As school counselors, we can work to help new students make a smooth transition by providing multiple levels of support. ### NEW STUDENTS CHANGING SCHOOLS Student mobility is a topic of research because of its possible effect on student achievement and future success. Accountability for schools in meeting the needs of homeless youth was addressed in a 2016 brief for [Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)](https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/education-department-releases-guidance-homeless-children-and-youth). Students in foster care and economically disadvantaged students are affected by multiple school changes. In addition, another group with high student mobility are military families. Students need support regardless of the reason they are changing schools. Having a comprehensive approach for outreach to new students has far-reaching benefits for the students and their families, the school, and the community. ### PLAN FOR NEW STUDENTS It truly does take a village when developing a plan for new students. It is important to have different stakeholders involved, beginning with admin. Once they are on board, you can develop your support system for the students and their families. Here are some things to do: **Choose a group of student leaders** to be your new student team. You may already have student ambassadors or student government reps in place. Decide how to **assign student leaders** to new students. Grade level, student schedule, and student interests are things to consider. **Determine what the new student helper will do**. Possible things would be to help the new student follow their schedule on their first day, introduce them to others, help them find their locker, find a seat at lunch, and follow up with them during the next few weeks. ### PREPARE FOR NEW STUDENTS After your plan is in place, your student team and school personnel need to be trained. Students may need to role-play what they will say and how they will help students. Some new students will be a challenge to talk to. Student leaders will need to be prepared for this. School personnel, including office staff and teachers, will need to know their role. Here are some ideas: **Train student leaders** during the first weeks of school. Develop a **new parent FAQ** handout. Plan a **Coffee with the Counselor** parent meeting. **Meet with teachers** to review new student procedures ### KNOW YOUR NEW STUDENTS It helps to know your new students. Here are some things to do to be informed: **Work with your registrar** to get information from your student management system. Subgroups, academics, discipline, and attendance should be noted. **Review registration paperwork.** **Read IEP or 504** info ASAP. ### NEW STUDENT CONTACT New students will respond differently to changing schools. Some will come in the first day and find their place. Others may struggle to fit in or not perform well academically. Small groups are a great way to meet these various needs. Here are some ideas for points of contact: **Plan lunch meet-ups** with new students and student leaders. Send out personalized invites to the new students, plan an ice breaker or team building activity and have an open-ended Q & A. **Organize new student small groups** that meet for a few weeks to address specific topics, like organization, study skills, family changes, and friendship skills. Do **individual check-ins** with students who may need more support. ### PARENTS OF NEW STUDENTS The parents of new students are deeply concerned for their kids. The change in schools affects them too. Try to develop a relationship with parents of new students to work toward success. Some things to do: Provide parents with your **school contact info** and follow up with a phone call or email within the first few days. Distribute the **new parent FAQ** handout. Publicize your **Coffee with the Counselor** parent meeting with morning/night time options. **Write a note** welcoming the family to your school and send in the mail. ### CLASSROOM STRATEGIES FOR NEW STUDENTS The classroom teacher plays a vital role in welcoming new students. As counselors, we intuitively think about how to help students adjust, while classroom teachers may need some reminders. Here are some classroom strategies that will promote a positive transition for new students. Have **helpers** assigned to new students. Give **classroom documents** to new students (have a new student info pack): parent letter, discipline plan, grading procedures, classroom rules, etc. **Group all students intentionally**. **Read IEP or 504** info ASAP. Do **check-ins** with new students. **Contact parent** via phone or email the first few days after the student arrives. Providing multiple levels of support and having a variety of contact points for new students and their families is necessary for a successful change in schools. **What kinds of things do you do to help new students?** #### Check out this post from EduKate & Inspire with [5 Tips to Welcome New Students](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/18/welcome-new-students/)! ![Help new students make a smooth transition.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/1-2.png) **Categories:** Uncategorized, Your Program **Tags:** new students --- ### [Must-Have Resources for New School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/must-have-resources-for-new-school-counselors/) **Published:** July 9, 2018 **Author:** The Responsive Counselor, EduKate & Inspire and School Counselor Stephanie **Content:** The excitement of getting your first school counseling job is immense. You jump for joy and begin to think, “now I need to go buy all of the things!” Then you remember that you do not have the budget to buy all of the things because you just finished grad school. Your next question? > “As a new counselor with a limited budget, what are the must-have resources for new school counselors?” We asked a few Confident Counselors to share some of their must-have games, TpT resources, and office tools. Keep reading to find out some of our favorite counseling resources for school counselors on a budget. ### **Sara, The Responsive Counselor:** When I got my first school counseling job, the office was fairly full, but most of the things were older than me. They were no longer a match to who I was going to be working with: 2nd-4th grade mostly minority students. Six years later, I have selected and collected tons of resources to stock my office. Most have been hits, some have been flops. The list below is what I wish had when I started the job and my program. **Game:** As far as official counseling games go, most do not seem to live up to their hype. They can be pretty pricey too! [Journey to Friendsville](https://amzn.to/2tJN2eJ) is one that I have found well worth the money. It can be played in less than 30 minutes, is engaging to both genders, and balances skill with chance. It does not feel outdated and most of the prompts felt like a fit to my kiddos. I wrote a longer [review](http://www.theresponsivecounselor.com/2016/12/journey-to-friendsville-review.html) of it on my blog a couple of years ago where I deemed it an official win! **Sensory Item:** I knew my [mermaid sequin pillow](https://amzn.to/2tKMtkT) would be well used, but I did not know quite how well used and well-loved it would be. If I am conducting an individual session, chances are myself or the student is using it – boys included. I think by making sure I chose gender neutral colors (mine is black/gold), it is viewed as accessible to all. There are other mermaid sequin items that are smaller, but I love the pillow because it something for students to hold. **TpT Resource:** As you start planning your program for the year, you will want to use stakeholder input and data to guide which direction you go. This [planning bundle](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/School-Counseling-Needs-Assessments-and-Curriculum-Maps-EDITABLE-3858279) is planning perfection! It includes needs assessments (hard copy and digital) for faculty, parents, and students – plus editable curriculum maps to fit any caseload. There are also tons of sample themes and lesson topic ideas included so you are not reinventing the wheel. This resource gives you helpful and simple documents and ideas for starting the year off right. [![School Counselor Planning Bundle](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/ACS_0262-300x225.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/School-Counseling-Needs-Assessments-and-Curriculum-Maps-EDITABLE-3858279) **Other Office Tool:** I have had this [hand paper shredder](https://amzn.to/2KrwPlr) for five years now and it is the BEST for “destroying” cognitive distortions, bad guys from nightmares, grudges, etc. Shredding the paper by hand is much more satisfying than an electronic shredder (and I also do not worry about safety). I share a bit more about the things in my office on my blog where I did a [full office tour](http://www.theresponsivecounselor.com/2018/06/school-counseling-office-tour-round-one.html) – perusing that post might give you some inspiration as well! **Organizational Supply:** In my life, filing cabinets are where papers go to die and never be seen again. I have two sets of these [drawer organizer carts](https://www.amazon.com/Seville-Classics-10-Drawer-Pearlescent-Multi-Color/dp/B00OM52MX2/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1530149282&sr=8-5&keywords=rolling+drawer+organizer+cart) and I absolutely love them. This is where I keep: lesson plans for the current cycle, MTSS/RTII meeting paperwork, teacher surveys, frequently used individual worksheets, cards, stickers, etc. Everything is easily accessible. I also love taking the drawers with lesson materials in them all the way out and carrying them with me to classrooms to keep everything all together! -Sara, [The Responsive Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Responsive-Counselor) ## **Kate, EduKate and Inspire:** As a first year counselor in a K-4 school, I remember being overwhelmed by the wealth of counseling resources available. I was hired as the replacement for a veteran counselor who did not leave very many updated resources behind. Now that I am a few years into the career, there are several resources that are my “go to” items that would be very helpful to a new counselor. Check out the list below to read about a few of my must-have resources for new school counselors! **TpT Resource:** As a new counselor, it can be a challenge to come up with a system of documenting your case notes. I created this [Documentation Pack](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/School-Counselor-Documentation-Pack-2638663?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=CC%20New%20Counselor%20Resource%20Post) my first year as a counselor and it is a resource I continue to use daily. The pack contains everything you need to document your sessions and help you get organized for the school year. My favorite pages in the pack are shown below! [![School Counselor Documentation Resources](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/intake-pages-300x300.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/School-Counselor-Documentation-Pack-2638663?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=CC%20New%20Counselor%20Resource%20Post) **Game:** Have you heard of cooperative board games? They are the perfect tool for encouraging teamwork and communication skills. Unlike a traditional game, all of the players work together to try to win–either they all win or they all lose! My favorite cooperative board game is called [Race to the Treasure](https://amzn.to/2lFq8kV). In the game, players work together to try to build a path to the treasure before an ogre beats them there! Students love this game because they end up with a different path every time they play, which adds excitement to the game. **Sensory Item:** I have a basket of fidgets that students can choose from when they come into my office. One of the most used fidget tools in the basket is [Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty](https://amzn.to/2tw38JC). Students love squishing and stretching the putty while we chat. Thinking Putty comes in a huge variety of color options–my students’ favorites include hypercolor (changes colors as it heats up) and illusion (really neat metallic colors). **Other Office Tool:** As a new counselor, it took some time to build up a solid collection of art supplies. One of my first art supply purchases were these [Multicultural Crayons](https://amzn.to/2Ir7BSg). Students love being able to choose from the different shades to find a skin tone and hair color. I also show students how to blend the colors to create the perfect shade just for them. I prefer the large crayons over the regular size because they seem to handle the extra pressure students use when coloring portraits. Crayola makes the same type of multicultural supplies in markers, colored pencils, and even paint! **Organizational Item**: As I began to gather art supplies for my office, I quickly realized that I needed a spot to store them that would give students easy access. I use a [Supply Caddy](https://amzn.to/2KnN4zU) to store pencils, multicultural crayons, scissors, colored pencils, glue sticks, and markers. I keep the caddy on a low shelf, which makes it easy to grab during individual sessions when a student wants to utilize art. In the caddy, I make sure to keep 6-8 pairs of scissors and glues sticks so that it is ready to go for small group time, too. If you find yourself with a small budget and a large shopping list, try to look for other options to supplement your budget. You can consider writing a Donor’s Choose grant or look into local grants in your area. During my first year as a counselor, I wrote a grant through our local education foundation, which helped me to purchase many of my must-have resources for my office. To check out more of my favorite resources, visit [this post](http://www.bit.ly/EduKateOffice) to take a tour of my office. You can also visit my [Amazon Shop](http://amazon.com/shop/edukateandinspire) to see more of my favorite counseling resources. -Kate, [EduKate and Inspire](http://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/) ## **Stephanie, School Counselor Stephanie:** When I started as a school counselor back in 2008, it had been 9 years since I had gotten my masters in counseling. After I finished my graduate degree, I decided I needed to go off and have a grand adventure. I left the country for several years to join the Peace Corps in Mozambique and then teach ESL in Bolivia. Needless to say, I put my counseling degree on a shelf for almost a decade after getting my masters. As a result, I had no idea what I would need most as a school counselor because it had been so long since I had studied school counseling and done my internship! The first few years of my school counselor job, I attended all the professional development I possibly could find and read everything school counselor-ish on the internet. During this research, I realized what resources I needed most to effectively function as an school counselor. I began to grow my toolkit. Oh, how I wish I had known I needed those tools upon signing my school counseling contract in 2008. Having that resource knowledge up front would have made everything so much easier in my first year! Listed below are my must-have resources for all three levels: elementary, middle. and high school. **Game:** The game that I use most with my students is [The Talking, Feeling, and Doing Game](https://www.amazon.com/Talking-Feeling-Doing-Game/dp/B000MBE3S2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1530145931&sr=8-1&keywords=feeling+thinking+doing+game&dpID=61bLso0l6sL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch). This game is so powerful at getting kids to open up when they have difficult things to talk about. Plus, it is super fun and they love it! I play this game with individuals who need some time before they are ready to work on their problems. I also use it in group sessions when we need a fun activity to go a little deeper. Let me add that JENGA is a very close second to the above game, in terms of usefulness and fun. JENGA is great for modeling/redirecting social skills in a game-playing situation. In addition, it can be easily transformed into almost any skill work game as I have done in my [Stress Demolition game from the Take it Easy group curriculum guide](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Take-It-Easy-Stress-Management-Small-Group-Counseling-Guide-3822183). **Book:** My bible in school counseling is Gerald Sklare’s [Brief Counseling that Works](https://www.amazon.com/Brief-Counseling-That-Works-Solution-Focused/dp/1483332330). It is an absolute must-have for every school counselor! Sklare does an amazing job of turning the solution focused brief counseling model into practical tips and strategies. If you do not already have this book from grad school, do yourself a kindness and order it today! If you have enough money to get another must-have book, pick up a copy of the [American School Counselor Association’s National Model](https://www.amazon.com/ASCA-National-Model-Framework-Counseling/dp/1929289324/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1530146718&sr=1-2&keywords=asca+national+model+implementation+guide&dpID=41FRfdazqgL&preST=_SY291_BO1,204,203,200_QL40_&dpSrc=srch)– it will guide you each step of the way in your appropriate role as an school counselor and in how to set up a comprehensive school counseling program. **Office Tool:** Mandalas and [Crayola Markers](https://shop.crayola.com/color-and-draw/markers/broad-line-markers-classic-colors-10-ct.-5877228017.html) are a must-have for all the times you will have upset (or just waiting) students in your office that need to take some time to relax as you handle their crisis situation, wait for a parent to arrive, or even just make their schedule. Luckily, you can find free mandalas all over the internet such as at [this site.](http://www.supercoloring.com/coloring-pages/arts-culture/mandala) **Organizational Item**: Get yourself an organizational cubby with lots of slots for all the forms you will have to manage as a school counselor. [Here is my favorite one from Classroom Keepers](https://www.amazon.com/Classroom-Keepers-30-Slot-Mailbox-001318/dp/B00377TSB0/ref=pd_sbs_201_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00377TSB0&pd_rd_r=AZ037YKXQZ27492RQVPX&pd_rd_w=w2NcN&pd_rd_wg=2ngLK&psc=1&refRID=AZ037YKXQZ27492RQVPX). It is a little pricey for a cardboard cubby, but I have had mine for 5 years and it still works great! **TpT Resource:** Last, but not least, is a resource from my [School Counselor Stephanie Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counselor-Stephanie) that I use every year and just can not live without! It is a grief counseling guide called [Cope Into Hope](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cope-Into-Hope-Grief-Individual-Counseling-Guide-3513868). Unfortunately in our work as school counselors, we deal yearly with students losing their loved ones. This book will help you guide the student through their grief in the gentlest and most soothing way possible. Sadly, I have to use it every year. [![Grief Counseling Guide](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Cope-cover-revised-300x300.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cope-Into-Hope-Grief-Individual-Counseling-Guide-3513868) I hope this brief list of resources helps you greatly in your first year as a school counselor. Additionally, you can check out a post I wrote for rookie counselors to help them get through their first year: [“New Kids on the Block: Tips for the Rookie School Counselor”](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/2015/08/30/new-kids-on-the-block-tips-for-the-rookie-counselor-or-eslefl-teacher-2/). -Stephanie, [School Counselor Stephanie](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/) ## Final Advice for New School Counselors Our final advice for new school counselors is to be resourceful! Look for creative ways to turn everyday supplies into therapeutic tools. Counseling games can be very expensive, so it is great to have a few games that are versatile. In fact, as the three of us were writing this post, we realized that we all wanted to recommend JENGA! JENGA is an incredibly versatile game. You can play it as intended, use it to talk about building up/tearing down trust, and use the blocks to represent something that needs to be knocked down. It is also great practice for self-control, patience, and turn taking. By being resourceful, you can also easily turn ANY GAME, like JENGA, Candy Land, and Don’t Break the Ice, into a counseling game. Check out [Build Your Own Counseling Game](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Build-Your-Own-Counseling-Game-2693968?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=CC%20New%20Counselor%20Must%20Haves) and [Any Game Counseling Prompts](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Any-Game-Counseling-Prompts-for-18-Different-Topics-3250339) to find prompts to turn any game into a therapeutic resource. [![Build your own counseling game](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Picture1-300x97.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Build-Your-Own-Counseling-Game-2693968?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=CC%20New%20Counselor%20Must%20Haves)Build Your Own Counseling Game[![Any game counseling prompts](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Picture1-230x300.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Any-Game-Counseling-Prompts-for-18-Different-Topics-3250339)Any Game Counseling Prompts ## Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Shop Every counselor, every office, and every set of students is different. As you prepare for your shopping spree, mini or huge, here are some things to keep in mind: - Do you know yet what is already in your office? What did the previous counselor leave behind? - What do you know about the demographics of your school? As you are looking at books and posters, ask yourself if they represent your students. - Consider spending your own money on things that you know will be must-haves. Did you use a game during internship that was a big hit? Have you read through a book at the library that you imagine using over and over throughout the year? It is better to spend your money on a sure thing than something you do not know much about, but sounds cool. - What do you imagine using within your first three months? Do you have any other recommended must-have resources for new school counselors? We would love to hear your recommendations in the comments! For more new counselor must-haves, check out our [Ultimate School Counselor Supply List](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/08/16/school-counselor-office-essentials/) and [15 Must Have Books for Elementary School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/07/24/15-must-have-books-elementary-school-counselors/). ![Read about our must-have resources for new school counselors on a budget! Find recommendations for games, TpT resources, office tools, and more!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Must-Have-Resources-200x300.png) **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Counselor Role, Your Program **Tags:** book recommendations, CC tips, EduKate & Inspire, new counselor, School Counselor Stephanie, supplies, The Responsive Counselor --- ### [7 Tips for New School Counselors: Lessons We Learned During Our First Year](https://confidentcounselors.com/tips-for-first-year-counselor/) **Published:** July 18, 2018 **Author:** Speckled Moose Counseling and Counselor Keri **Content:** Are you looking forward to being a first year counselor? Or maybe you’re reflecting on what your beautiful, chaotic first year was like? The first year as a school counselor is full of exciting new experiences and plenty of opportunities for gaining wisdom. Confident Counselors [Gretchen](http://Speckledmoosecounseling.com) and [Keri](http://www.counselorkeri.com) reflect on what they learned during their first year as school-based counselors. ![Are you a first year counselor looking for tips to set you up for success? Read about the lessons Confident Counselors learned in their first year!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/FB-Tips-for-New-Counselors-.jpg) # Lessons We Learned as First Year Counselors ### 1. Focus Your Efforts on What Matters It’s so easy to get caught up in having a Pinterest-perfect office with perfectly organized shelves and colorful decor. All those Joanna Gaines-approved office photos can stir up major pressure that drives you to spin your wheels and spend your money to make a gorgeous space. But we’ll let you in on a secret: **kids don’t care about your decor**. They care about having someone they can trust. If cute decor is your thing, go for it! But if it’s not, don’t sweat it. Just focus your efforts on being the person your students need. ### 2. Slow Down and Assess Needs When I (Keri) was hired for my first school-based position, I had so many big ideas! I had written an anger group curriculum that I couldn’t wait to implement, and I had ideas for classroom games and school-wide initiatives that I had picked up from peers in my graduate program. The problem? My school didn’t need that stuff. Turns out I didn’t have a group of kids who struggled with anger (that year…) and there were already some pretty great school-wide initiatives in place. What I had instead was a caseload of students who had experienced a great deal of trauma and had needs that weren’t in the “big plan” I had in my mind. It’s easy to go into a new position with amazing ideas and a big desire to make positive changes. But before you start making those changes, take time to **assess the needs of the students you have**, not the students you’ve imagined. ### 3. Relationships Are Everything When we think about it, one of the most remarkable things about the school counselor’s role is the requirement to work with everyone. We’re intertwined with all…students, parents, school staff, community providers, etc. We all know that relationships are at the crux of everything we do, so it’s vital that during the first year we focus on developing connections with all stakeholders. During my (Gretchen’s) first year, my building experienced a tragic loss. Upon reflection, what stood out to me was that even when more experienced counselors were present, people came to me for clarity of the response plan and additional support. Why? Because relationships are everything, and they knew me. ![Are you a first year counselor looking for tips to set you up for success? Read about the lessons Confident Counselors learned in their first year!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Relationships.png) On a related note, it’s also important to remember that healthy relationships have boundaries. As a new school counselor, keep in mind that it’s critical to set limits, know when to speak up, and know when to say no, even when it’s hard to do. This applies to all the relationships that you maintain in your role as a new school counselor. We know, it’s really easy to type that one sentence, but putting those boundaries into practice can be challenging in complex situations. It’s all the more reason why #5 is so crucial. ### 4. Ask Questions Whether you’re new to the counseling profession or a counselor new to the school environment like we were, don’t be afraid to ask questions. It can feel really isolating to be in a meeting where everyone is using terms that you aren’t clear about all the while you’re jotting down notes to Google later. Every school has different terminology for activities and initiatives, so if you aren’t sure what someone is talking about, ask them! And don’t be afraid to ask your administrators about their expectations early on so that you’re on the same page. Asking questions will show your coworkers that you are a collaborative teammate who is open to learning new things! ### 5. Seek Out a Mentor For many of us, a counseling position can feel like an island if you’re the only counselor in the building and don’t have daily or even weekly interactions with other counselors in the district. Don’t be afraid to give an experienced counselor a call to ask if you can meet to talk about some ideas or questions that you have. In my (Keri’s) first school position, I reached out to a veteran counselor at a neighboring school to find out more about how things worked in that particular district, ask her opinion on accommodations, and just to chat about my experiences. Having someone I could reach out to inside my field was so helpful during that first year to help me feel connected as I navigated a new space. ![Are you a first year counselor looking for tips to set you up for success? Read about the lessons Confident Counselors learned in their first year!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Most-of-us-don’t-know-everything.-We-need-someone-to-which-we-can-say-“I’m-not-sure-about-this-approach-can-you-help”-2.png) ### 6. Remember: You Can’t Please Everyone We’ve observed, both in the clinical setting and school setting, that you can’t please everyone. You can have the best group counseling activities, evidenced-based programs for classroom lessons, outstanding response times to emails, and someone, somewhere is going to have a complaint. So often, counselors embrace their role and identity as helpers. Interacting with someone who is unhappy with you may be particularly distressing. As counselors, we have choices to make. Are you reflective and mindful of attempts and actions towards people-pleasing? Do you find and use the constructive criticism to help your comprehensive counseling plan grow and evolve? And in some cases, do you need to tap into your inner Taylor Swift and just shake it off? ### 7. Don’t Let Your Worst Moment Define Your Day Which brings us to this: don’t let the worst moment define your entire day. My (Gretchen’s) principal during my first year shared these wise words with me. As a counselor, you hear and respond to the worst of the worst. Sometimes the worst moments are like tsunamis that knock you down. Being able to stand up, stand back, and reflect on everything else that happened that day (or week, or month) will do wonders for your ability to keep showing up. There are other challenges that you experience that aren’t necessarily horrific, but they’re still stressful and hard. Does the nasty morning phone call define your day or the thank you card from a student? As counselors, we hold everyone’s pain, and we need to put it down sometimes to embrace the joy. Make it a part of your regular practice to recognize the highlights of your day, no matter how small. When you find yourself struggling, circle back to your mentor for some additional support. \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″ margin=”50″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] Whether you’re a new school counselor or a counselor finding yourself in the school setting for the first time, there will be plenty of opportunities for learning this year! We hope the lessons we learned during our first year will help you along the way. Experienced counselors, what was your biggest lesson learned during your first year? And new counselors, tell us what wisdom you’ve been offered for making your first year a success! And be sure to check out the [other posts in our back to school series](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/back-to-school/) from other Confident Counselors like you! ![Are you a first year counselor looking for tips to set you up for success? Read about the lessons Confident Counselors learned in their first year!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/PinTipsforNewCounselors.jpg) **Categories:** Counselor Role **Tags:** back to school, Counselor Keri, new counselor, Speckled Moose Counseling --- ### [School Counselor Planners for Staying Organized](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselor-planners/) **Published:** July 16, 2018 **Author:** EduKate & Inspire, The Counseling Teacher Brandy and Counselor Up and 1 more **Content:** As a school counselor, being organized and efficient can make your days run smoothly and your program run stronger. School counselor planners designed specifically for you will make it easier to maintain a comprehensive school counseling program. We asked a few of our Confident Counselors to share their planning tips and planner recommendations. Check out these tips to stay organized each school year. ### Paws-itive School Counselor ![school counselor planners](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Counselor-Planners-Staying-Organized-7.png "Counselor Planners - Staying Organized-7") Over the years, I have had a variety of planners. When a friend founded the company [C Jayne Teach](https://cjayneteach.com/collections/teacher-anchor), I used a planner from her company, and last year, I used a [Plum Planner.](https://www.plumpaper.com/) This year, my goal was to save money and start heading towards more digital options to become environmentally friendly. I put together two notebooks – one is a **date planner** with monthly calendars and the other is a **program planner** that allows me to plan and track the responsive services and class lessons I provide. ![school counselor planners](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Planner-5.png "Planner-5") I used [Counselor Up!’s Solution Focused Counseling on a Clipboard](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/solution-focused-counseling-on-a-clipboard) and [EduKate & Inspire’s School Counselor Planner and Documentation Bundle](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/School-Counselor-Planner-and-Documentation-Bundle-2639074?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Counseling%20Planners%20Post) as the base of my notebooks. My **date planner** is a slimmer version of what I have used in the past and it is a good transition as I move online using Google, Outlook, and our countywide time tracking software. My **program notebook** helps me plan ahead and track data and includes a section for small groups, classroom lessons, and individual student sessions. The section for individual students includes a student schedule page, intake and session forms, and a place for meeting notes about that student. I also included a classroom lesson section, which includes a yearly curriculum map, the state standards, a monthly breakdown by grade, and a page to write down ideas I hear at professional development sessions. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Laura-Filtness-Logo.jpg "Laura Filtness Logo") School Counselor in Knoxville, TN and was the 2017 TSCA Elementary School Counselor of the Year. You can visit her blog, [Paws-itive School Counselor](https://pawsitiveschoolcounselor.wordpress.com/), follow her on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/pawsitiveschoolcounselor/), or visit her [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Paws-itive-School-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Author%20Box). # *Laura >> Pawsitive School Counselor* ### Counselor Up I use my calendar as a productivity tool. All of my appointments, classes, etc. go into my Google calendar. I use my paper planner to maximize my effectiveness. In my **Google calendar**, I make sure to put in everything I do during the day. Yes, everything. By documenting your time, you are creating accountability for yourself to use your time wisely. I know that if I have 30 minutes or an hour where I ‘know I was busy’ but can’t write what I was actually doing, I could use my time more wisely. In my **paper planner**, I jot my main calendar items down but I use most of my paper for to-do lists. I am a big fan of the “Top 5” technique. Each day before I leave work, I write down the **top five things** I need to do the next day. It can be big or small but these are the things I absolutely must get done. ![School Counselor Planners](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/IMG_1593.jpg "IMG_1593") I also like to have my program goals, group lists, school calendar, and other reminders available in my planner. I put those in the front so it’s easy to reference when needed. Finally, I add some notes pages in the back and I’m set! You can check out my planner, and download a \***free**\* color-coded school calendar [over on my blog. ](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/its-planner-time) ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Counselor-Up.png "Counselor Up") School counselor since 2003, now supporting 140+ elementary school counselors in a large southern school district. For school counseling ideas, visit her [TPT Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Up?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Counselor%20Up%20Author%20Box), follow her on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/counselorupblog/), and read her [blog](http://www.counselorup.com/). # *Rebecca >> Counselor Up* ### The Counseling Teacher Brandy There’s just something wonderful about a paper and pen planner. I enjoy carrying it around and decorating each page. After 5 years of editing and adding requests, I have finally created [school counselor planners](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Counselor-Planner-2018-2019-1841421) that include the elements I need for our **Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP)**. The digital calendar on my phone helps me to remember events with the alarm feature. I’m lost without those alarms! ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Counselor-Planners-Staying-Organized-6.png "Counselor Planners - Staying Organized-6") The yearly, monthly, and weekly planning pages are critical in seeing the big picture, as well as the small. It helps me with my long term and short term goals for the school year. At the beginning of the school year, the year-at-a-glance page gets put right to use. We plan out the usual yearly events in pencil. After that, everything else seems to fall into place. As school counselors, we often find ourselves in meetings that don’t pertain to us. Like the time I spent an hour learning new math concepts because there was not a break out session for counselors. This is when the planner comes in handy. With plenty of note pages and zen coloring elements, you will have plenty to keep you busy and on task during faculty meetings. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Counselor-Planners-Staying-Organized-10.png "Counselor Planners - Staying Organized-10") I have recently fallen in love with the idea of a dashboard for keeping me on track each day. I started having the first page of my planner thickly laminated and use the back side of it to keep a to do list. There’s something satisfying about erasing things from the list. I use “wet erase” markers because they don’t smudge when the planner is closed. Check out my blog post about setting up your planner with a few printing tips and a [free zen doodle notes pages.](https://thecounselingteacher.blogspot.com/2018/06/school-counselor-planner-tips-free.html) ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/TheCounselingTeacher.png "TheCounselingTeacher") Teacher turned school counselor working to help students be their best versions. For school counseling ideas, visit her [TPT Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Author%20Box), follow her on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thecounselingteacher/), and read her [blog](https://thecounselingteacher.blogspot.com/). # *Brandy >> The Counseling Teacher* ### EduKate & Inspire My planning style is a blend of digital and printed. For my day-to-day planning, I use my [School Counselor Planner](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/2017/06/organize-your-school-year-with-school.html) to keep track of individual sessions, small groups, classroom lessons, meetings, and more. I use a color coding system that helps me peek at my week and see my schedule at a glance. ![Counselor Planner](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/planner-2.png "planner-2") **Purple**: Meetings – **Blue**: Small Groups – **Green**: Classroom Lessons – **Pink**: Special Events – **Pencil**: Individual student sessions (I always write these in pencil because they are most frequently re-scheduled! When I bind my planner, I also include our building schedule, phone call logs, blank notes pages, yearly goals, to do list pages, and a year-at-a-glance page. I always take my planner to meetings with me, so is helpful to have all of my organization pages together in the same place. To see how I organize my planner, check out [this post](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/2017/06/organize-your-school-year-with-school.html) on my blog. When I am working on curriculum mapping and school-wide programming, I prefer to go digital because it is easier for me to see the big picture in a digital format. I can also save my templates from year to year and easily tweak them for the following year. I created a [Digital Counseling Binder](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Digital-Counseling-Binder-Google-Drive-3244782) using Google Slides to keep me organized throughout the school year. I keep my binder in my bookmark bar in Safari, so that it is easy to access throughout the school day. ![Digital School Counselor Planner](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/picture.png "picture") To get started using Google Docs for digital organization, check out [this post](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/2016/07/google-docs-for-school-counselors.html) on my blog with **FREE**, editable Google Docs. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Edukate-Inspire.png "Edukate & Inspire") Teacher turned school counselor working to help students be their best versions. For school counseling ideas, visit her [TPT Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Author%20Box), follow her on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/edukateinspire/), and read her [blog](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/). # *Kate >> EduKate & Inspire* Do you have any planning tips or planner recommendations? We would love to hear from you in the comments below! We hope you have an organized and efficient school year! ![School Counselor Planners created and tested by school counselors will take your comprehensive school counseling program to a new level.](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Counselor-Planners-Staying-Organized-14.png "Counselor Planners - Staying Organized-14") **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Organization **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Up, EduKate & Inspire, organization, Paws-itive School Counselor, planner, The Counseling Teacher Brandy --- ### [School Counselor Summer Reading](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselor-summer-reading/) **Published:** July 20, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Keri, Counselor Up and EduKate & Inspire **Content:** Summer is the perfect time to get in the reading you have been meaning to do all year. What’s on your school counselor summer reading list? Three Confident Counselors share what is on their lists. *Affiliate links are included in this post. That means if you purchase anything we have recommended in this post, we will receive a small commission. This helps us run the site and we only recommend resources and products we are using ourselves.* ### Summer Book Clubs This summer, I’m reading [Unselfie](https://amzn.to/2uSjoVd) by Michele Borba, [Braving the Wilderness](https://amzn.to/2O41bwA) by Brene Brown, and [Lost and Found](https://amzn.to/2Nx9EHL) by Ross Greene with other school counselors in a [summer book club](https://www.facebook.com/groups/407985036273495/). I tend to get wrapped up in the hustle and bustle during the year and let reading fall off my to-do list, so I’m looking forward to getting back into these books for personal and professional growth. Reading along with counselors across the globe also helps me to feel connected to the profession and reinvigorates me! ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/circlehead.png "circlehead") #### Keri I am an elementary school counselor, mental health counselor, and curriculum writer hoping to reach every single student and spark social emotional growth! Visit my blog, [Counselor Keri](https://www.counselorkeri.com/), visit my TPT store, [Counselor Keri](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=CK%20Author%20Box), and follow me on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/counselorkeri/). ### Ally is a Verb I’ve just finished [White Folks Who Teach in the Hood and All the Rest of Y’all Too](https://amzn.to/2O8BPOi) by Chris Emdin (and got to meet him in person!). It’s a great book for educators working with urban youth. Next up, I have [Dreamkeepers](https://amzn.to/2NsPI8P) by Gloria Ladson Billings, [\#HipHopEd](https://amzn.to/2LsTzFx) edited by Chris Emdin, and [Lost at School](https://amzn.to/2zXXzJA) by Ross Greene (from last summer’s book club, oops!). My goal is to add to my arsenal of tools as I work to increase my efficacy to live what I believe: [Ally is A Verb](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/ally-is-a-verb), amplify the voices of marginalized students. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Picture1-1.png "Picture1") #### Rebecca I have been a counselor since 2003, now I support 140+ elementary school counselors in a large southern school district. Counselor Up is my way to share some of the ideas, organizing tools, and planning with you! Visit my blog, [Counselor Up](http://www.counselorup.com), visit my TPT store, [Counselor Up](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Up?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Counselor%20Up%20Author%20Box), and follow me on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/counselorupblog/). ### Data Ready This summer, I am reading [Hatching Results for Elementary School Counseling](https://amzn.to/2uzOcuE) by Trish Hatch. I previously read Dr. Hatch’s [Use of Data in School Counseling](https://amzn.to/2O3Hipv) and am excited that her new book has an elementary focus. As an Ohio school counselor, I will be evaluated with the Ohio School Counselor Evaluation System for the first time this school year. This evaluation tool focuses on student growth measures, so embedding more ways to collect data in my program will be essential. ![edukate & inspire logo](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/watercolor-on-white.png "watercolor on white") #### Kate I’m an Elementary School Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor from Ohio. I love creating hands-on lessons that both educate and inspire children. Visit my blog, [EduKate & Inspire](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com), visit my TPT store, [EduKate & Inspire](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=EKI%20Author%20Box), and follow me on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/edukateinspire/). **What’s on your school counselor summer reading list?** ![school counselor summer reading list. What are you reading this summer as a school counselor? Books we don't have time to read during the school year are perfect for by the book. Check out Lost in School, Hatchings Results, Unselfie, Ally is a Verb, and Braving the Wilderness.](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Pin-Summer-Reading-Convo.jpg "Pin Summer Reading Convo") **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Counselor Role, Professional Development **Tags:** book recommendations, CC tips, Counselor Keri, Counselor Up, EduKate & Inspire --- ### [What Counselors Can Do Before Students Walk In The Door](https://confidentcounselors.com/before-school-starts/) **Published:** July 23, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Chelsey **Content:** It’s almost back to school season! While I find back to school to be an incredibly exciting time, full of new ideas and fresh starts, it can be chaotic. Especially when those doors open on the first day and the students are officially back. Personally, I’ve found that you never really know what is going to happen when the students walk in. Will I be supporting kindergartners who have a hard time separating from their parents for the first time? Will any students I know need to spend some time in my office processing what happened over the summer? Who knows. What I do know is that when I take a few days before school starts to get myself organized and prepared, I feel much more equipped to handle whatever is thrown at me. ### Plan Ahead One of the first things before school starts is to **plan as much as possible for the first two weeks**. Your to-do list may be different depending on your specific school. I make a list of students to check in with, create a plan for scheduling small groups and classroom guidance, and I plan all of those out as much as I can. Here are some things you can get set up before the first day of school: Decide how teachers will **sign up for classroom guidance**, and send out the e-mail/forms you are using for that! Make a **list of students you may need to check in** with during the first few days. It also helps if you make a note of which classroom they will be in. Prepare the **forms for needs assessments/minute meetings**. I have [these](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Back-to-School-Student-Needs-Survey-Free-2655659?utm_source=CCC%20B2S&utm_campaign=Minute%20Meetings%20Form) for free in my [Teachers Pay Teachers store!](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselorchelsey) Make a plan for the **classroom lessons** you will be doing in the first few weeks. Gather all of the materials you need and print out copies to avoid last minute stress! Think about whether or not you will be **running small groups** in the first few weeks. Prep as much as possible, including gathering materials you will need and making copies. You can check out my no-prep small group plans [here](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Social-Skills-Group-Bundle-Save-20-2292798?utm_source=CCC%20B2S&utm_campaign=Small%20Group%20Bundle)! My theory is that if I can start ahead, and get as much planned as possible, it is easier for me to stay ahead… or at least not fall so far behind! ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/IMG_4443.jpg)I keep copies of blank needs assessments in a folder, organized my grade level, for easy access! ### Connect With Teachers And Other Staff My second priority is always **connecting with teachers**, especially new teachers. Most schools have at least one or two required work days before the school starts when all of the staff are in the building. I have found that building relationships with teachers and other staff can be so helpful in our practice as counselors, social workers or psychologists. Check out some ideas of how to do that [here](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/04/connect-staff-school-counselors/). The first few days – when you can’t be interrupted by student crises – is a great time to touch base with them, explain your role and go over any changes you are making to your program. I try to make contact with every teacher in the building. In case this isn’t possible, I also make a list of who I need to prioritize, such as new teachers and teachers who will be having some of my “frequent flyer” students in a class. Doing this before the students’ first day can make it much easier to touch base with the teachers and work on building those connections! ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/IMG_4439.jpg)Making a list of teachers and students to check in with helps me feel prepared! ### Get Your Office Ready Once I have done the first two things, I **make sure my office is ready to receive staff and students**. Your office doesn’t need to look like it can be on the cover of a magazine, but having a tidy, welcoming space can be instrumental in making both students and staff feel more comfortable. I love to have some colorful posters, a calm down area, and an organization system for my games/art supplies. For more ideas, check out this [list of office must haves](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/07/school-counseling-office-must-haves/) from [The Counseling Teacher](http://thecounselingteacher.blogspot.com/). I have found that having a nice workspace leaves me feeling refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes at me! Doing this before the first day of school will help you get it done without distractions and help you feel ready for the year to begin! The few days before school starts can be a great time to work – as there are no (or at least fewer) crises or urgent interruptions. If you spend this time planning your first few weeks, connecting with staff, and making sure your workspace is fresh and inviting, you will feel refreshed and prepared to handle whatever those first days of school will bring! I’d love to hear what you will be doing before school starts! Is there anything you are working on now? Let me know in the comments! ![School counselors can prepare before school starts by planning ahead, connecting with staff and getting their offices ready!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Pinterest-Image.png) **Categories:** Counselor Role, Your Program **Tags:** back to school, new counselor --- ### [Ways to Introduce the School Counselor’s Role to Students and Staff](https://confidentcounselors.com/introduce-school-counselors-role/) **Published:** July 30, 2018 **Author:** School Counselor Stephanie and The Counseling Teacher Brandy **Content:** We asked Stephanie of [School Counselor Stephanie](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com) and Brandy of [The Counseling Teacher](http://www.thecounselingteacher.com) to share how they introduce the school counselor’s role each year. Stephanie discusses how she communicates with students at the beginning of the year. Brandy shares how she explains her program to faculty and staff during the back to school season. Share your approach in the comments below. ### Introduce the School Counselor’s Role to Students There is so much to do at the beginning of the school year! This is definitely the time of year to prioritize school counseling tasks since there are only so many hours in the day. One of your top priorities as a school counselor during Back to School season is to introduce yourself and introduce the school counselor’s role to students. There are three main ways to do this. #### Introduce Yourself First, give a brief introduction of yourself to students during the opening week of school, preferably on day one or two. This is important because some of them will need you before they know you! You can do this by taking just 5-10 minutes to talk to the entire grade level during lunchtime or even hit all the classes in a quick rotation first thing in the morning. At my school, my admin team talks to all grade levels the first week to set consistent behavior and academic expectations for the entire campus. My co-counselor and I join in this talk, giving us an easy way to speak to the entire student body. During your brief introduction, address three points: - Your name, physical office or classroom location, and grade level or alpha assignment - A sentence or two about how you support students - How students should get to you if they have an emergency (i.e., someone threatens them) versus a non-emergency (i.e., schedule change request). #### First Guidance Lesson Second, plan your first guidance lesson to teach students exactly what your role is in the school and how you can support them. This may come in the form of a Meet the Counselor interactive activity if you work with littles, or a Meet the Counselor PowerPoint in the computer lab with a Kahoot follow-up if you work with the older kids. I create a Meet the Counselor Booklet that I give to each student as a part of my Meet the Counselor September guidance lesson. We discuss each part of the booklet together in the lesson. [You can check out this Meet the Counselor guidance lesson with the accompanying booklet here](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meet-Your-Counselor-An-Introductory-Guidance-Lesson-3553793?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Meet%20the%20Counselor%20SCS). [![School Counselors introducing their role to students](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Meet-Your-Counselor-guidance-lesson-cover-300x300.jpg "Meet Your Counselor guidance lesson cover")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meet-Your-Counselor-An-Introductory-Guidance-Lesson-3553793?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Meet%20the%20Counselor%20SCS) I briefly explain the four aspects of school counseling (guidance curriculum, responsive services, individual planning, and system support) in terms or with activities that they can understand. Then, I explain how I support them in each aspect. During this lesson, I also give them a needs assessment to see what topics they want me to cover in their guidance lessons throughout the year. I explain to them that one of my roles is to help them discover ways to learn more about whatever they are most interested in. [Here is a link to my website resources page where you can download this student needs assessment](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/resources-links/). #### Be Visible Third, spend some time in the cafeteria during lunches in the first month of school. At my school, we run a “Counselor Corner” all year long where each counselor takes a day of the week to sit through all three lunch shifts. This gives students a great opportunity to informally come up and chat with us about whatever is on their mind. ![Introducing the role of the school counselor](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/counselor-corner-300x225.jpg "counselor corner") Doing these activities to introduce the school counselor’s role to students will pay off in spades when they have a problem and they know exactly how to get help from you! [![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/School-Counselor-Stephanie-Small.png "School Counselor Stephanie Small")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counselor-Stephanie?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SCS%20Author%20Box) I am a bilingual school counselor in a Central Texas public school system. When I’m not counseling, writing, or presenting, I enjoy ranch life with my husband and our menagerie of pets. Visit my [TPT Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counselor-Stephanie?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SCS%20Author%20Box), follow her on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/schoolcounselorstephanie/), and read her [blog](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/blog/). # *Stephanie >> School Counselor Stephanie* ### Introduce the School Counselor’s Role to Staff Teachers are so focused on getting their rooms ready for the school year that I find it difficult to keep their attention at the very beginning of the year. Therefore, we do a **quick intro** at the first faculty meeting and leave the formal introduction for later. We send them with a **FAQ sheet** and student referral forms. After teachers have had a few weeks to settle in, we will do a **detailed** [**powerpoint presentation**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meet-the-School-Counselor-Presentation-for-Back-to-School-Parent-Night-785053?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TCT%20Counselor%20Presentation) explaining our role to staff in more detail. ![school counselor's role](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Untitled-design-2-1024x576.png) #### What is the School Counselor’s Role? The answer to this question can vary quite a bit depending on your school, your district, or state. It’s important to be sure that administrators and teachers know your specific role as defined by the American School Counseling Association from the very beginning, so that you do not find yourself becoming the disciplinarian, substitute teacher, or hallway monitor. Because our role with students is to be their advocate and to develop an authentic, trusting relationship with them, we don’t want to jeopardize that by being seen as the disciplinarian. The teachers and admin are supposed to be the first line of defense in discipline. Counselors are more like the grandparents of the school. We are there to nurture, protect, help modify behavior, and give treats when needed. We try very hard at the beginning of the year to make it clear that students are never “in trouble” if they get called to the counselors’ office. We are there to solve problems and help students become the best version of themselves. We want all visitors to our office to feel unconditional acceptance. This becomes critical when students need an adult in the school that they know they can trust if they are self harming or having negative thought processes. #### Referrals We give out referral forms to all staff with a list of reasons that are appropriate for sending a student to the counseling office. Not that they always remember to use it, but we try. This form acts as a guide and a reminder of the reasons why a student may need to see us. It also has a reminder that we are not the first course of action for discipline. You can come up with any process for your school, but we prefer a form that teachers fill out ahead of time. If they forget and come charging into the office with a student, we will usually talk to the student if we are able and put the form in the teacher’s box later as a reminder. The form is then filed away in the student’s counseling file. We also remind teachers that in our state, we are allowed to see students only one time without parent permission, so it is critical that we follow procedure. In my last school, we sent home a parent permission form to every student at the beginning of the school year. At my current school, we only send the form home after an initial referral from a teacher, peer, or the student. Check with your state for specific laws. #### Research Based Program Getting support for your program can be just as easy as 1, 2… data. The numbers will tell the story. Turn your program goals and statistics into colorful graphs and tables to show your school leaders and staff why you do what you do. While I’m not opposed to covering a classroom when needed, we all know that it’s not the best use of our time. Once stakeholders realize that our methodology makes a real impact on student personal and academic growth, you will find that others begin to value your time more and more. **Let us know how you introduce your program to students and staff!** ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/TheCounselingTeacher.png "TheCounselingTeacher") Teacher turned school counselor working to help students be their best versions. For school counseling ideas, visit her [TPT Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Author%20Box), follow her on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thecounselingteacher/), and read her [blog](http://thecounselingteacher.blogspot.com/). # *Brandy >> The Counseling Teacher* ![Introducing your role as school counselor to students and staff](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Planner-7-200x300.png "Planner-7") **Categories:** Class Lessons, Teachers, Your Program **Tags:** back to school, meet the counselor, new counselor, School Counselor Stephanie, The Counseling Teacher Brandy --- ### [Create a Strong Counselor Parent Relationship This Year](https://confidentcounselors.com/counselor-parent-relationship/) **Published:** July 25, 2018 **Author:** Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor **Content:** Creating a counselor parent relationship at the beginning of the year is super important. Parents are experts on their children. They know their kids better than anyone else and can articulate their children’s needs while advocating for services. Open communication between a counselor and parents allows us to build an effective program that meets the needs of those students. When thinking about how you want to connect with parents consider these questions: \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″ margin=”50″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] What do you want the parent/counselor relationship to look like? How will that be achieved? How will you communicate vital information about your program that may help their child? How can you make parents feel like their opinions matter and are important? \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″ margin=”50″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] ### **Counselor Parent Relationship** Start by thinking about what exactly you want the counselor parent relationship to look like and how you will achieve that relationship. How often do you want to reach out to parents? What do you want that communication to look like? What forms of communication work best for you? Creating a communication plan that works best for you, your program and your schedule can maximize your ability to reach and inform parents. At a minimum, reach out to parents at the beginning, the middle and end of the school year. There are many ways to reach out to parents and promote your counseling program; below are some examples of how you can achieve your parent/counselor relationship goals. ### Beginning of the Year Connection It is important to introduce yourself and your services at the beginning of the year so parents know that they have you as a resource. Some common ways to connect with parents at the beginning of the year are: - Presence at **Parent Night** and/or Open House. You could have a booth, give a presentation or create a flyer that all teachers give to parents. Get creative! - Introduction Article in **School Newsletter** or on School Website. - Introduction on **School Social Media.** - **Meet the Counselor Days**. These are specific days and time set aside (much like office hours) that any parent can come in and meet with you or ask questions about your program. - Presentation at **SAC/PTO Meeting.** - **Coffee with the Counselor** during the first week of school. ### Cultivating the Connection Monthly or midyear reminders of your counseling program can help you communicate vital information about your program to parents. Giving information to parents helps them to understand that you are a phenomenal resource with a wealth of knowledge that can help their child. During the year, family dynamics may change, crisis situations can occur and traumatic situations may shake their lives. These reminders of your program can help encourage a newly struggling family to reach out. Some ways to keep the connection alive are: - **Counselor Parent Workshops** for Hot Topics Parents Should Know (such as [Dangerous Social Media Apps](http://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/2017/02/dangerous-dozen-12-apps-all-parents.html)). - **Monthly Social Media Shout Outs** about Counseling Program. - **Monthly School Newsletter Blurbs** or School Website Articles. - **Monthly Counselor Newsletter.** - Classroom Guidance **Lesson Handouts for Parents.** - **Phone Calls Home.** - **Monthly Counselor Connection Activities.** This could be a booth in conjunction with a parent invited event already occurring at school or a counselor specific event such as coffee with the counselor, counselor days, etc. ### **Parent Opinions** Parent opinions can help drive your program goals. If parents feel as if their opinions matter and are important to you, they will be more willing to communicate with you and be an active participant in your counseling program. Assessing parent and community needs can help you to incorporate necessary components that help your students in specific. Ways to assess the needs of parents and students can come in the form of: - **Needs Assessment** - **Google Doc Survey** - **SAC/PTO Meetings** **How do you connect with parents in your building? What suggestions do you have that may help others foster a mutually beneficial parent/counselor relationship?** Check out this post to be prepared for [uncomfortable conversations with parents](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/31/handling-uncomfortable-conversations/) this year. ![Counselor parent relationships](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Slide1-1.png) **Categories:** Parents, Your Program **Tags:** parents, relationship building --- ### [New School Counselor – Tips For Your First Month](https://confidentcounselors.com/new-school-counselor-first-month/) **Published:** August 12, 2018 **Author:** Little Miss Counselor, The Responsive Counselor and Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor **Content:** As a new school counselor you are likely feeling excited and overwhelmed. We’ve all been there. A few Confident Counselors have some tips about where you should focus your first month. These are definitely things we all wish we knew when we were a new school counselor. ## Slow & Steady It’s so exciting to start your first year as a new school counselor and actually get paid for doing what you love! Oftentimes new counselors have so many thoughts of things to change, groups to start, programs to implement, and fresh ideas to make the school a better place. Sometimes those changes aren’t easily welcomed by other staff members. Before changing anything, get comfortable in your role and get a feel for the **climate of the school**. Also, spend time doing what counselors do best, which is **relationship building** with staff, parents, and students. I have found that without building rapport, new ideas will be met with resistance. Lastly, take it slow. Counselor burnout is real, so make self-care a priority. [![Little Miss Counselor](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/13814598_984575921664069_217302344_n.jpg "13814598_984575921664069_217302344_n")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=LMC%20Author%20Box) ###### Erika > Little Miss Counselor School counselor with 12+ years of experience, I’ve worked with elementary and middle school students. Currently, I work with students ages 3 to 1st grade at an early childhood center. Visit my TPT store, [Little Miss Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=LMC%20Author%20Box). ## Relationships First Relationships first! This is our mantra as counselors and it’s exceptionally true when you are establishing yourself in your building and with all of your stakeholders. Einstein’s quote *“I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious”* is the mantra to live by as you are focusing on relationships while simultaneously trying to learn as much as you can. **Spend twice as much time listening as you do speaking**. Learn as many names as you can (use silly mnemonics in your head if it helps!). Eat lunch with students in the cafeteria and eat lunch with teachers in the lounge. Be as visible as you can be – in the hallways during arrival, in the car rider lane at dismissal, and in the office when parents are signing in to visit their kiddos at lunch. Host an “open office” with treats to encourage faculty to stop by your space and become comfortable there. **Learn the needs of your students and families**, first by observing and then later by conducting [needs assessments](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/School-Counseling-Needs-Assessments-EDITABLE-for-Faculty-Parents-and-Students-3858265). It’s also important to begin subtle establishing your most **important boundaries**. Be helpful and open and available but don’t volunteer for any tasks that you’re not comfortable being called on to do frequently throughout the year. At first, it seems counterintuitive to develop relationships and boundaries at the same time, but we all know that strong relationships involve appropriate boundaries! [![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/TRC-Logo-Button.png "TRC Logo Button")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Responsive-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TRC%20Author%20Box) ###### Sara > The Responsive Counselor 6+ years as an elementary school counselor. I’m a Midwesterner turned Southerner, a boy mom, and a plant lady that’s super passionate about evidence-based practices in my social-emotional-behavioral work with students. Visit my TPT store, [The Responsive Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Responsive-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TRC%20Author%20Box) or read more on [my blog](http://www.theresponsivecounselor.com/). ## Make Connections A first year counselor should spend the first month of school **making connections and introducing themselves** to students, staff and parents. They should take the time to build rapport and foster relationships that will help guide the development of their program. Spending the first month working with staff and **conducting needs surveys and assessments** can help new counselors to develop a program that meets the unique needs of all students. A new school counselor should spend time [introducing themselves to students](https://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/2017/07/whoooos-school-counselor-kinder-and.html) and **explaining their role**. It is important for students to learn who you are so that they are comfortable coming to you when they need help. [![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mrs-Bell-Transparent.png "Mrs Bell Transparent")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Mrs%20Bell%20Author%20Box) ###### Ashley > Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor Visit my TPT store, [Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Mrs%20Bell%20Author%20Box) or come read more over on [my blog](https://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/). ### **Check out our other** [**Back to School posts**](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/back-to-school/) **and pin this one for later!** ![Being a new school counselor is exciting and overwhelming. In the first month as a new school counselor focus on making connections with teachers, parents and students. Listen and understand your school culture. Complete a needs assessment to better understand how to serve your school. Most of all as a school counselor, find time for self care and moments of reflection.](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/2-3.png "2") **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Counselor Role, Your Program **Tags:** back to school, CC tips, Little Miss Counselor, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, new counselor, The Responsive Counselor --- ### [Be Where Your Feet Are! Book Review](https://confidentcounselors.com/be-where-your-feet-are-book-review/) **Published:** August 1, 2018 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** Julia Cook, former school counselor and children’s book author, has a new book out. This time she is giving us a useful resource to begin discussions about mindfulness in [Be Where Your Feet Are](https://amzn.to/2Auqc18). I am sure that the many school counselors across the country who have their own mini Julia Cook Book library will be adding this book to their collection. ### What’s Inside The story features a relatable young boy who struggles to keep his thoughts and actions in the moment. He often winds up not putting forth his best effort, forgetting things, and missing out on time with others. The phrase “***be where your feet are***” gives a concrete way for students to understand the concept of being present. The boy learns that if he keeps his thoughts where his feet are, he is more likely to be successful. ![Julia Cook Be Where Your Feet Are](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/4.png "4") ### Counseling Ideas As with most Julia Cook books, the child’s thoughts are put front and center. This gives a lot of opportunity to stop and discuss in small groups and individual counseling. The book provides different ways students can be where their feet are, such as breaking up tasks and mindful moments. The book also provides helpful ways educators and parents can incorporate mindfulness into their daily lives with children. This would be great to share with parents and teachers who are beginning to use mindful practices. ![be where your feet are book review](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/3.png "3") **A couple other ideas:** - Ask them to predict what will happen if the character is thinking about one thing while doing the other. - Get a template for feet or shoes. Have students write down strategies for *being where their feet are*. - Do a brain dump. Have them write down all the things they are taking up time and space in their brain. Then create a simple list and plan for when they will focus and complete each. - Incorporate mindfulness exercises at the beginning of sessions to help these concepts come off of the page and into practice. [Visit the site](http://bewhereyourfeetarestorybook.com/) and grab your own copy for your counseling library! Looking for more counseling resources on mindfulness. [Check out this post from Counselor Chelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/22/using-mindfulness-in-school-counseling/). *This book was sent by the publisher to be reviewed.* ![be where your feet are julia cook book review](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Pin-Be-Where-Your-Feet-Are.png "Pin Be Where Your Feet Are!") **Categories:** Counseling, Uncategorized, Your Office **Tags:** adhd, book recommendations --- ### [Helping Parents with Separation Anxiety](https://confidentcounselors.com/parents-separation-anxiety/) **Published:** August 6, 2018 **Author:** Little Miss Counselor **Categories:** Behavior, Parents **Tags:** anxiety, separation anxiety --- ### [Ways to Welcome New Students](https://confidentcounselors.com/ways-to-welcome-new-students/) **Published:** August 17, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Up, Speckled Moose Counseling and EduKate & Inspire **Content:** Every year there are a handful of students who are new to your school. Depending on your community, it might be more than a handful. What do you do to welcome new students? Gretchen, Rebecca, and Kate share ways to welcome new students you may not have tried yet. ## Lunch Chats I like to have an informal lunch meeting where I invite new students and one old student. I started this when I was also new at a school and it ended up adding so much to the group. By the time they meet with me, they’ve already toured the school and done other intro activities with their class, so in our lunch we just chat and answer questions. I also love the idea of sending welcome postcards to new students. I created [an editable postcard](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Welcome-to-Our-School-Postcard-3313216?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20Welcoming%20students&utm_campaign=editable%20postcard) if you’d like to try it! Send me a message and let me know how it worked. [![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Counselor-Up.png "Counselor Up")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Up?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Counselor%20Up%20Author%20Box) School counselor since 2003, now supporting 140+ elementary school counselors in a large southern school district. For school counseling ideas, visit her [TPT Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Up?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Counselor%20Up%20Author%20Box), follow her on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/counselorupblog/), and read her [blog](http://www.counselorup.com/). # *Rebecca >> Counselor Up* ## Tours, Groups, Banners We have a new student tour and orientation about 2 weeks before the school year starts. We present a short slideshow to parents, tour families around the school, and finish with a Popsicle treat. It is a great, non-threatening way to get to know new families. I also meet with all new students in a small group (by grade level) during the second week of school. This allows students a bit of time to settle in before we meet and it is also beneficial because it helps new students see that they are not alone. To welcome new students school-wide, I also create a banner display in our main hallway with each student’s name and photo. Read more about how I welcome new students in [this blog post](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/2016/08/how-to-welcome-new-students.html) and download the FREE new student banners in the post. ![New Student Banner](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/new-student-banner-display.png "new student banner display")[![EduKate & Inspire](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/New-Logo.png "New Logo")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=EduKate%20Box) Teacher turned school counselor working to help students be their best versions. For school counseling ideas, visit her [TPT Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Author%20Box), follow her on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/edukateinspire/), and read her [blog](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/). # *Kate >>* [*EduKate & Inspire*](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=EduKate%20Box) ## Make Personal Connections Connecting with new students and their families is one of my favorite things to do as an elementary school counselor. Similar to Kate, I join my principal in welcoming new students with their families during our new student orientation. It’s a brief, easygoing event the week before school starts. Families receive a tour of the building, and important information is covered. During this time, I introduce myself and my role. I also take photos of the new students for a new student bulletin board. One thing that I began last year is to distribute small cards to each student that has the teacher’s name, photo, and room number on it. My hope is that students will be able to recognize their teacher on the first day and be able to have at least one “familiar face.” I begin my new student lunch groups towards the end of the first week, and I run them for four weeks. At the conclusion of the group, I send a brief, personalized note home to each new family. [![Speckled Moose Counseling](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/SpeckledMoose.png "SpeckledMoose")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Speckled-Moose-Counseling?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SMC%20Author%20Button) I have been a school counselor since 2008, and prior to that I was a mental health counselor working with all ages at a nonprofit specializing in trauma. For school counseling ideas, visit her [TPT Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Speckled-Moose-Counseling?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SMC%20Author%20Button), follow her on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/speckled_moose_counseling/), and read her [blog](http://speckledmoosecounseling.com/). # *Gretchen >> Speckled Moose Counseling* Check out these posts for more suggestions to support new students. [These 5 Tips Make It So Easy to Welcome New Students](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/18/welcome-new-students/) [How to Help New Students Make a Smooth Transition](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/07/11/help-new-students/) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Your Program **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Up, EduKate & Inspire, new students, Speckled Moose Counseling --- ### [10 Tips for School Counseling Office Organization](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-office-organization/) **Published:** August 15, 2018 **Author:** Pawsitive School Counselor **Content:** Whether you have an office the size of a closet, a whole classroom or even a traveling cart, school counseling office organization can be daunting. Do you prioritize having a Pinterest perfect space or functionality? Can you have both? These 10 steps will help you get that school counseling space organized regardless of the size. The most important thing is having a space that lets you connect with and effectively support students. ### **Add Personal Touches** We can spend over 8 hours a day in our classrooms and offices, making it a home away from home. Adding personal touches adds comfort, makes the space inviting, and helps you make connections with staff and students. I love adding pictures of my dogs. Students want to know more about them and I get to ask about their pets. It’s a natural icebreaker. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/IMG_5151-e1534179178575-768x1024.jpg) ### **Choose Your Color Palette Wisely** Themes come and go as you and your school change with each new school year. So pick a foundation of colors that can work for any theme. Use these colors as the base of your bulletin boards, storage bins, rugs, etc. Then, add on top specifics based your theme or the school theme that year. ### **Don’t Go Broke** It’s easy to get carried away in the Target Dollar Spot, but it can add up quickly. Before you buy something new ask yourself: > “Do I need this or do I just want this?” > > “How will I use this?” > > “Does this add use to my space or does it just add clutter?” > > “Does this go with my theme and style?” ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Screen-Shot-2018-08-08-at-5.03.26-PM-300x300.png)Credit: https://www.instagram.com/kimlepre/ ### **Make Labels Your Friend** It may take time early on, but it will give you time back later when you need to quickly grab a book on behavior. I love using [The Responsive Counselor labels](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Counseling-Library-Labels-3318219?utm_source=CC%20SC%20organization&utm_campaign=SC%20Labels) because they fit into the square label pouch from the Target Dollar Spot. The clear pouches make it easy to change and relabel as your space continues to grow. I organize most of my books by topic and some by the author. [![school counseling office organization in 10 steps.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/IMG_4979-e1534125347337-768x1024.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-office-organization/img_4979/) [![office organization](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/IMG_5154-1024x768.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-office-organization/img_5154/) ### **Take Inventory** ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/IMG_151792874AF6-1-169x300.jpeg) I use [Book Buddy Pro](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/bookbuddy-pro-library-manager/id395149950?mt=8) and Goodreads to inventory my books. When I see a new book in a store, I can easily check and see if I own it and Book Buddy Pro allows me to track who I’ve loaned books out to. Don’t just inventory your books, take time to inventory all of your supplies. Taking the time to inventory your supplies will help you see what you are using most, uncover items you may have forgotten, help identify what you need, and organize your space for summer pack up. Apps like [Box Me Up](https://boxmeupapp.com/login) or [Sortly](https://www.sortly.com/) to create QR codes as you pack up your boxes at the end of the year. ### **Think About Your Line of Sight** When you open your refrigerator, where do you first look? Probably the middle shelf, right? Our eyes naturally go to eye level spaces, so take this into consideration when organizing your room. Store the supplies you use most frequently at eye level height. This goes for students as well. Don’t want students grabbing scissors or tearing up your favorite book? Place these items higher up. Out of sight, out of mind! ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/IMG_5153-1024x768.jpg) ### **Have Individual Props Ready to Go** Most days we hit the ground running and don’t stop until the coffee is cold. I try and take time in between students to review notes and set up, things don’t always go as planned. For example, I may have a referral to meet with a student about friendship skills, but through conversation, I realize anger is a central issue. I love using the visual of a “fuse” using yarn or string, but it can slow down the momentum of a session if I have to dig through my office trying to find it. Put your individual props in an easy to access location. Check out more [ways to use props in school counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/16/props-school-counseling/). [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/IMG_5023-1-e1534180777122-225x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-office-organization/img_5023-2/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/IMG_5025-2-e1534180892588-225x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-office-organization/img_5025-2/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/IMG_5024-1-e1534180851303-225x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-office-organization/img_5024-2/) ### **Plastic Tubs Instead of File Folders** For 10 years I tried unsuccessfully to keep file cabinets organized and neat. Finally, I traded in my folders for [document holders](https://www.target.com/p/super-stacker-document-box-room-essentials-153/-/A-14786976?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=PLA_Storage+Organization+Shopping_Brand&adgroup=SC_Storage+Organization&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=c&location=9030943&gclid=Cj0KCQjwm6HaBRCbARIsAFDNK-iZWovCzBuG47noQb696C-31VU4X-c4utjDrONfggzmNxh4iQZ-01QaArukEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds). I organize my document boxes by topic and include all my notes, files, and copies in each box without worrying if the papers will get shoved, lost and wrinkled. Check out this before and after! ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/IMG_5147.jpg) ### **Minimize to Maximize** Each year I do a huge purge of my office and classroom. As I do, I am finding items I had forgotten or not used and ask myself “***why?”***. Did I forget it and need to move it to a not so hidden location or did I not need it? A good rule of thumb, if you haven’t touched it in a year: get rid of it. ### **Go Slow and Steady** I read a gardening tip which suggested living in a house for one year before planting, so that you could know the light patterns of your house. I like to take the same approach to my office. You don’t need to have a space straight out from Pinterest your first year. Live in the space, get to know the flow and needs of the school, and then slowly decorate and make the space fit you instead of you trying to fit into the space. **What tips do you have for school counseling office organization? Share in the comments below!** **Check out our other School Counseling office posts [here](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/08/16/school-counselor-office-essentials/) and [here](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/07/school-counseling-office-must-haves/).** ![School counseling office inspiration is needs this time of year. Check out these 10 tips for school counseling office organization to help you prioritize what is important for your school counseling office.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/2-2.jpg) **Categories:** Organization, Your Office **Tags:** organization --- ### [How to Set School Counseling Program Goals](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-program-goals/) **Published:** August 16, 2018 **Author:** The DIY Counselor **Content:** I’m always excited, yet nervous, for a new school year to begin. Setting goals for your school counseling program demonstrates accountability and provides focus. Every year is different. Needs change. In the same way, your school counseling program goals should reflect these changing needs. But, how do you decide what your goals should be? Data drives your school counseling program and helps you to set goals with outcomes that can be measured. These three types of data can help you create your program goals: **needs assessment data, school profile data, and school climate data**. ### **Needs Assessment Data** First, it is necessary to know the needs of your students, parents, and teachers. Conduct a student needs assessment during the first few months of school that includes academic, social/emotional, and college and career readiness questions. In addition, give parents and teachers similar assessments customized for them. You can find the needs assessments I use for my program [here](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Middle-School-Counseling-Needs-Assessments-3964773?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=MS%20Needs%20Assessment). Once the assessments are done, analyze the results. This will give you an idea of what the top concerns are for each group of stakeholders. The results will help you set goals for your school counseling program. ### **School Profile Data** Secondly, you must know your school profile data: academic achievement, discipline, demographics, attendance, and subgroups. This data will give you specific groups to target for intervention. If you have difficulty generating these reports or accessing the data, talk to your admin or the designated data person at your school to get help. ### **School Climate Data** Lastly, assess your school climate from all stakeholder perspectives. The end of the school year is a good time to do this assessment, but it can also be done at the beginning of a new year. Use a questionnaire that addresses perceptions about the school environment, negative behaviors, where the action happens, how often it happens, and how students respond when it happens. The [National School Climate Center](https://www.schoolclimate.org/) is a great place to start. ### **Data Drives Goals** Now that you have all this data, what next? Your program goals are the basis of your counselor program management agreement. Refer to your state counseling model and standards to ensure compliance. ASCA has an excellent [template](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/ASCA%20National%20Model%20Templates/SMART-Goal.pdf) to use that gives you a SMART Goal Format. It is important to be realistic when writing your goals. Something that helps me is to collaborate with admin. If you have an advisory council, ask them for feedback about your program. Align your goals with your school improvement goals. Once you have your goals written, then you can plan activities, lessons, programs, and small groups that could address these goals. ### **The Proof is in the Results** Fast forward to the end of the school year. Gather the data you need related to each of your goals. Look at the results. Don’t be disappointed if you didn’t reach your goal with the exact percentage. This is not what defines your program. What does matter is, you had goals and worked to meet them. Your outcomes can be used to show how your program will continue to improve. Program goals can help you focus on what is really important for your school. Results show how students are different because of what you do. **What are some tips and tricks you use to set program goals?** > Great leaders don’t set out to be a leader, they set out to make a difference. It’s not about the role-always the goal… Check out these other posts on goal setting as a school counselor and grab The DIY Counselor’s [Middle School Needs Assessment](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Middle-School-Counseling-Needs-Assessments-3964773?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=MS%20Needs%20Assessment) to get started. [Setting Professional Goals](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/12/07/school-counseling-professional-goals/) [Confident Counselors Conversations: Do you set program goals for the year?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/01/set-program-goals/) ![Setting school counseling program goals involves collecting data from needs assessments, school climate data, and school profile data. These data points help you set goals for your school counseling program that are responsive to students needs.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/2-4.jpg) **Categories:** Data, Your Program **Tags:** school counseling program --- ### [Cooperative Learning Activities in School Counseling Lessons](https://confidentcounselors.com/cooperative-learning-activities-in-school-counseling/) **Published:** August 22, 2018 **Author:** The Responsive Counselor **Content:** I’m always excited about new fun school counseling activities that don’t involve worksheets and this post is all about my favorites! When I’m planning for my school counseling lessons, there are five things I keep in mind: 1. Name the objective, 2. Skip the worksheet, 3. Chunk it into segments, 4. Include partner or group work, 5. Incorporate movement. This sounds like a lot, but using cooperative learning activities in school counseling lessons makes it easy, fun, and effective. **Enter: Kagan structures**. I was first introduced to cooperative learning structures my second year as a school counselor by catching some of our best teachers in action when I popped in to ask a question or as they were finishing up their lesson before I delivered mine. I quickly realized that these are some amazing strategies to engage students in counseling lessons too! They have quickly become my go-to activities when lesson planning and the students don’t mind one bit if we repeat some of the same activities throughout the year; in fact, I think they go even better once they’ve had some practice with them! ## Reasons Cooperative Learning Activities Rock: **Classroom management** is twenty times easier when you’re *encouraging* talking and movement instead of discouraging it. You can use them with almost **any grade level**. They often provide the opportunity to **discuss deeper ideas** without the students being developmentally ready to handle a longer whole group discussion. They work with nearly **any topic or skill** you want to teach. No matter the topic, students will be **practicing social skills** because these activities all involve student interaction, meaning they have SEL embedded into them just by their cooperative nature. They are **super engaging**, so the lessons are fun for you and the students! There are tons of different cooperative learning structures that can be applied to school counseling; these are the four that make my heart go pitter patter and that I use all the time. I’m also going to link you to a **FREEBIE** at the end with more detailed directions for these and four more activities. ## Ask-Ask-Switch I must admit this is probably my most used cooperative learning activity. It starts with every student being given some sort of task card. They could be discussion questions, “what would you do?” scenarios, multiple choice questions, pictures, or even just statements you would like them to practice delivering. Students will mingle around the room finding partners and taking turns reading their question/prompt and responding. After each pair finishes each of their turns, they trade cards and find new partners. In 10-15 minutes, students have been exposed to tons of different prompts and have either had lots of opportunities to practice a specific skill or have participated in a deeper discussion about a topic or story. I use this activity each year with these “What would you do?” [conflict scenario cards](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Conflict-Resolution-Task-Cards-2852696?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=Kagan%20Post). ## Mingle-Partner-Chat Sometimes you want to use some awesome discussion questions or scenarios but your kiddos are still emerging readers or you don’t have enough for the whole class. This is where mingle-partner-chat rocks. Students mingle around the room, partner up (on your cue), listen to the prompt (or see it if you project it), use some think time, then share their idea with their partner. Consider having a few students share out. Repeat until you’re through with prompts or time is done! Add in some music during the “mingle” time for bonus fun. This is a great option for using some of the discussion and scenario cards in this [What if Everybody Said That? companion](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/What-If-Everybody-Said-That-Activities-and-Lesson-Plan-3895483?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=Kagan%20Post). ## Pick a Card! Anything that feels like a game is always a win for students! With “Pick a card!”, students work in groups of four to process through 6-12 different task cards. Students take turns having different jobs (fan the cards, pick, answer, and respond) and each round always begins with “Pick a card, any card!” which I have found can make even the grumpiest kid smile. I’m a big proponent of modeling *everything* you want students to do and this activity is no exception; get three student volunteers to join you on the floor and show them how it goes. I used this activity for the first time in a [gossip and rumors](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Gossip-and-Rumors-Activity-and-Lesson-3103361?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=Kagan%20Post) lesson and was hooked! ## Number Groups For this activity, put students into groups and assign numbers. After you give a prompt (discussion Q, “what would you do” scenario, etc.) students discuss in their groups and come up with one unified answer. Then you call out a specific number to answer and the person assigned that number in each group stands to respond. It’s a great way to encourage collaborative decision making and keep everyone on their toes! This is one of the activities that is part of my responsibility lesson that goes with [But It’s Not My Fault!](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/But-Its-Not-My-Fault-Responsibility-and-Problem-Solving-Lesson-Plan-2985073?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=Kagan%20Post). So, what do you think? Are you inspired to use one or more cooperative learning activities in your next lesson? Tell us all about it by commenting below! And if you want even more detailed directions for these or want to learn about some more, you can click here to find a [FREE guide to eight cooperative learning activities for school counseling](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Cooperative-Learning-in-School-Counseling-3980368?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=Cooperative%20Learning). \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″ margin=”50″\] \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”dashed” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″\]\[/su\_divider\] Check out this post from Counselor Keri about using [School Counseling Centers](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/school-counseling-centers/) during classroom lessons. Let’s get those kiddos moving and talking. ![cooperative learning activities for school counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Pinterest-Image-683x1024.jpg) **Categories:** Class Lessons **Tags:** classroom lessons, cooperative learning --- ### [How do you introduce the school counselor role?](https://confidentcounselors.com/introduce-school-counselor-role/) **Published:** August 29, 2018 **Author:** Little Miss Counselor, Counselor Keri and Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor **Content:** When school counselors start the year, a lot of misconceptions can exist about their role. Our role has evolved greatly over time. Everyone has an idea of what the school counselor does, and it is so often wrong. Check out these tips for establishing clear communication about your role, changing expectations, and connecting with students and staff. ## Clear Communication When I first started my job, I was known as the *guidance counselor*. It has taken a few years, but I am now called the ***school counselor***! This has been an exciting transformation but it started with educating everyone about my role without correcting others when they use the wrong term. First, I have *school counselor* written everywhere. It’s on my email signature, office door, coffee cups, and even my clothing. To educate **parents**, I send home a newsletter that specifies the differences between a community and school counselor. This has cut down the number of parents asking me to do weekly therapy! I teach **kids** about my role and how I serve students in my first lesson and reinforce the concept throughout the year. Lastly, with **new staff**, I send out a flyer about my school counseling program along with a little [treat](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-Coffee-Themed-School-Counseling-Program-Info-and-Welcome-for-New-Staff-3323747?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20Intro%20Role&utm_campaign=LMC%20Intro). It helps build relationships with new staff and teach others about your role. [![Little Miss Counselor](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/13814598_984575921664069_217302344_n.jpg "13814598_984575921664069_217302344_n")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=LMC%20Author%20Box) #### Erika School counselor with 12+ years of experience, I’ve worked with elementary and middle school students. Currently, I work with students ages 3 to 1st grade at an early childhood center. Visit my TPT store, [Little Miss Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=LMC%20Author%20Box), and follow me on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/littlemisscounselor/). ## Changing Expectations When introducing my role during classroom guidance lessons, I have always enjoyed doing true/false trivia-style games to see what students know and think about my role as the school counselor. I always find that there are some misconceptions (hello, disciplinarian title!), and even teachers say that they learn something! I like to make [movement-based activities about my role](https://www.counselorkeri.com/2018/06/02/meet-the-counselor-activities/) to get **students** engaged while still learning to set the stage for a fun year in counseling. For **teachers**, I have always tried to visit each one personally during the week before students arrive to chat about their needs and plant a few seeds about my program goals. Then, I address everyone in faculty meetings to review needs assessments and explicitly state how I can address those through the counseling program. During back to school nights, I have had a counseling table with lots of information for **parents** about the ways in which I serve students with all of my contact info. Parents also seem to really appreciate monthly newsletters summarizing what their students have learned as a result of the counseling program. I’ve had so many parents say, “My guidance counselor never taught us that!” It’s fun to see the perspective shift on the counselor’s role from all sides! [![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/circlehead.png "circlehead")](https://www.counselorkeri.com/) #### Keri I am an elementary school counselor, mental health counselor, and curriculum writer hoping to reach every single student and spark social emotional growth! Visit my blog, [Counselor Keri](https://www.counselorkeri.com/), visit my TPT store, [Counselor Keri](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=CK%20Author%20Box), and follow me on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/counselorkeri/). ## Connect with Students and Staff When introducing my role to students, teachers and staff, I frame it in terms of [superpowers](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor). I work at the elementary level so I wear a superhero cape and make it engaging for the kids. I review my roles and responsibilities in a super fun way allowing students to understand what I do as well as how/when they can seek me out for help. When introducing my role to teachers/staff, I ask my admin team if I can speak for a few minutes during our pre-planning week. I like to introduce myself, give a brief overview of my roles and then conduct a quick needs survey on google docs since everyone already has their computers out and have to be there anyway. It is an awesome way to address the staff as a whole and allows time for questions and suggestions. I use the results of the needs survey to influence how I build that year’s counseling program. [![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Mrs-Bell-Transparent-copy.png "Mrs Bell Transparent copy")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=MBTCC%20Author%20Box) #### Ashley Visit my TPT store, [Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Mrs%20Bell%20Author%20Box) or come read more over on [my blog](https://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/). #### More Posts on Introducing Your Role - [Ways to Introduce Your Role](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/07/30/introduce-school-counselors-role/) - [How to Present Your Counseling Program and Role to Staff](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/30/present-counseling-program-role/) - [Advocating for your Role](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/02/05/school-counselor-advocacy/) ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Pin-CC-Conversation-2018-2019.png "Pin CC Conversation 2018-2019") **Categories:** Class Lessons, Counselor Chats, Your Program **Tags:** back to school, CC tips, Counselor Keri, Little Miss Counselor, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor --- ### [Create a Culture of Kindness at School](https://confidentcounselors.com/create-culture-of-kindness-at-school/) **Published:** August 27, 2018 **Author:** Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor **Content:** Create a culture of kindness at school to help support student’s social, emotional and academic growth. When students are in a positive, kind, encouraging environment, they are more likely to have the confidence to try new things and take academic risks. Creating a culture of kindness will make your school a better place for both students and staff. There are many ways to create a culture of kindness. Whether you just want your kids to be a little nicer to each other, or you are creating a whole kindness week, the tips below will help get the kindness ball rolling! ## Define Kindness Start with defining the word “kindness” with your class or group of kiddos. What does being kind mean to your students? How would someone know that you were showing them kindness? You can brainstorm with your group and come up with examples or you can do [activities](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/02/09/kindness-activities-february/) and [play games](https://bit.ly/2MGBnWf) that explicitly teach the concept of being [kind and friendly](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/08/kindness_activities/). ## Kindness Contract What commitments are they going to make to each other about being kind? What are they going to do to be kind, how are they internalizing this concept? What will they do, how will it look? How are they going to help create a culture of kindness at school? I like to make a “kindness contract”. This contract has students outline how they are going to treat each other kindly and what they are going to do to fix their own behavior if they are not meeting class kindness expectations. ## Kind Kids Reinforce kind behavior and acts of kindness that you notice from your students. Have students point out and track acts of kindness. Create a class goal for what happens when you reach twenty acts of kindness, thirty acts of kindness, etc. How are you going to celebrate your culture of kindness? It is also important to take time to discuss how to be kind even when it is hard or you don’t want to. Have a discussion about how much kindness could mean to someone and how kindness could turn someone’s day around. You never know what someone is going through, your kindness could mean a world of difference to them. ## Model Kindness Take every chance you can to show ways to handle various situations in a kind manner. Modeling kindness, taking turns and respecting others will encourage kiddos to follow suit. Doing some type of class-wide kindness project can do wonders for helping kids practice kindness in the classroom. My school did this [school-wide kindness project](http://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/2018/01/kindness-lettersstaff-morale-boosters.html) that allowed the students to help boost the morale of the teachers. It was wonderful to see how excited the students were about making the teachers so happy. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/20180103_110043-1-208x300.jpg) ## Plan For Unkind What is the classroom plan for when someone is not being kind? How will your class handle unkindness while remaining kind and friendly themselves? Ask your group of kids for examples of times that someone was unkind to them. What do they wish that person would have kindly done instead? How would those kind actions have affected them differently? When you create a culture of kindness at school, the payoff is worth the time invested. Students and staff will benefit greatly from the increased positive atmosphere in your school community. What might seem like a small act of kindness to you, may mean the world to someone else. You really never know what someone has going on in their life; a simple smile, wave, or helpful hand can have a profound impact on someone. When given the chance, choose to be kind. **Check out these other ideas!** [10 Minute Kindness Activities for Counseling and the Classroom](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/08/kindness_activities/) Tips for [10 Counselors on a Kindness Culture in their Schools](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/02/05/creating-a-culture-of-kindness/) ![Culture of Kindness](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Pin-Culture-of-Kindness.png) **Categories:** Your Program **Tags:** kindness, school culture --- ### [What do you do for back to school night?](https://confidentcounselors.com/back-to-school-night/) **Published:** August 31, 2018 **Author:** EduKate & Inspire and School Counselor Stephanie **Content:** What do you do for back to school night or open house at your school? Do you give a presentation, visit classrooms, setup a table or booth? This is a great opportunity to provide parents with information, be a familiar face, and advocate for your role. ## Presentation & Table For Back to School Night, I present my counseling program to parents [through a Powerpoint](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Parent-Orientation-Presentation-Our-School-Counseling-Program-3511116). After the presentation, I set up a Counselor Corner in a prominent area with a round table and my Counselor Corner sign. Then I just park myself there with various handouts and info packets about our counseling program. This gives parents/guardians an opportunity to come by, chat with me, and pick up our counseling program literature through the night. [![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/School-Counselor-Stephanie-Small.png "School Counselor Stephanie Small")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counselor-Stephanie?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SCS%20Author%20Box) I am a bilingual school counselor in a Central Texas public school system. When I’m not counseling, writing, or presenting, I enjoy ranch life with my husband and our menagerie of pets. Visit my [TPT Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counselor-Stephanie?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SCS%20Author%20Box), follow me on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/schoolcounselorstephanie/), and read my [blog](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/blog/). # *Stephanie > School Counselor Stephanie* ## Photobooth Connection I create a photobooth in our main hallway for our back to school night. It allows me to easily connect with families in a fun and engaging way. I use colorful butcher paper from our art teacher to create a backdrop on the wall. Next, I put a table by the backdrop and fill it with props for the photobooth. I also keep a supply of my Meet the Counselor brochures on the table in case families would like additional information about our counseling program. I stand by the photobooth and chat with families while they take photos. I try to snap photos with my cell phone and use these on our social media and Class Dojo accounts. I upload all of the photos I take that evening and have them printed at an inexpensive print shop like Meijer or Wal-Mart. I keep the backdrop up and stick all of the printed photos onto the backdrop. After a few weeks, I take down the photos and pass them back to each family. The photobooth is an easy way to positively engage with families! [![EduKate & Inspire](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/New-Logo.png "New Logo")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Kate%20Author%20Box) Teacher turned school counselor working to help students be their best versions. For school counseling ideas, visit her [TPT Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Author%20Box), follow her on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/edukateinspire/), and read her [blog](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/). # *Kate >> EduKate & Inspire* **What do you do for back to school night? Comment below.** **Check out these other** [**back to school posts**](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/back-to-school/) **for more ideas!** ![As a school counselor what do you do for back to school night? Do you give a presentation about your school counseling program, set up a booth where parents can ask questions about the roles of a school counselor?](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Pin-CC-Back-to-School-1.jpg "Pin CC Back to School") **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Your Program **Tags:** back to school, CC tips, EduKate & Inspire, School Counselor Stephanie --- ### [Creating a Calm Corner In Your Counseling Office](https://confidentcounselors.com/creating-a-calm-corner/) **Published:** September 4, 2018 **Author:** Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop **Content:** If you have space, a calm corner is a great addition to your counseling office. It provides a safe place where students can practice calming strategies and improve self-regulation. You also get to provide more support and instruction than might be possible in a classroom. ## Make It Cozy The calm corner should be comfortable and soothing. Pillows, bean bag chairs, soft blankets, and weighted lap pillows are perfect. Weighted pillows and blankets can get expensive, but there are a lot of DIY guides available. If possible, I like to include a divider of some sort to separate the calm corner from the rest of my room. Not enough space? I also have an eye mask in the calm box. Students can use that to filter out the environment for short periods of time. [![cozy corner](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/IMG_4605.jpg "IMG_4605")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Regulation-Using-a-Take-A-Break-Spot-or-Calm-Down-Corner-2003304?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=SEW%20Calm%20Corner) ## Step by Step Process A calm corner is more than just cozy items and fidgets. When students are in this space, they need to work through calming down. This is best done with a simple process that they know and repeat each time. I have students check in on how they are feeling, choose calming strategies, try those calming strategies, check in again to see how they are feeling, and repeat until they feel they are back to calm. A simple process [like this](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Regulation-Using-a-Take-A-Break-Spot-or-Calm-Down-Corner-2003304?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=SEW%20Calm%20Corner) will make the calm corner purposeful and also teach students self regulation skills. [![Interactive Calm down process ](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/IMG_4603.jpg "IMG_4603")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Regulation-Using-a-Take-A-Break-Spot-or-Calm-Down-Corner-2003304?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=SEW%20Calm%20Corner) ## Calm Corner Visuals Visuals are an essential part of a calm down area. Many students when they are feeling stronger emotions won’t have the language to discuss a problem. This allows them to communicate and reflect. It is helpful to start off with fewer, concrete visuals and slowly build them up. For example, as a student learns new calming strategies, they can be added. Or as their emotion vocabulary expands, they can have a larger set of emotions to choose from. [Calm Down Area Visuals](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Regulation-Using-a-Take-A-Break-Spot-or-Calm-Down-Corner-2003304?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=SEW%20Calm%20Corner) [![Calm down process feelings](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/IMG_4606.jpg "IMG_4606")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Regulation-Using-a-Take-A-Break-Spot-or-Calm-Down-Corner-2003304?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=SEW%20Calm%20Corner)[![calming strategies poster](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/IMG_4617.jpg "IMG_4617")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Regulation-Using-a-Take-A-Break-Spot-or-Calm-Down-Corner-2003304?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=SEW%20Calm%20Corner) Counselor Keri has this [great calm corner](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Calm-Down-Area-Printables-Self-Regulation-Calm-Down-Kit-3893726?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=CK%20Sports%20Theme) that is sports themed. She has visuals to support each step of the calm down process. Her word wall could be added to throughout the year as students increased their vocabulary. [![Counselor Keri Calm Corner Feelings Wall](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/40428414_520638131682813_7849750622675927040_n.jpg "40428414_520638131682813_7849750622675927040_n")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Calm-Down-Area-Printables-Self-Regulation-Calm-Down-Kit-3893726?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=CK%20Sports%20Theme) ## Calming Strategies Gretchen from Speckled Moose Counseling has this awesome set of [calming strategy posters](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Calming-Strategies-Posters-for-Elementary-School-Counseling-Decor-3952185?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=SMC%20Calming%20Posters) on display in her room. The superhero theme is sure to be appealing to lots of students. Calm is a superpower! She also has them printed small and on a keychain so they are can be used anywhere. This can be a really powerful way to individualize the calming process for students and help them generalize calming strategies to other settings. [![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/40365433_2126295864276008_8604152690391384064_n.jpg "40365433_2126295864276008_8604152690391384064_n")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Calming-Strategies-Posters-for-Elementary-School-Counseling-Decor-3952185?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=SMC%20Calming%20Posters)[![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/40337222_712335349113403_1618788622859763712_n.jpg "40337222_712335349113403_1618788622859763712_n")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Calming-Strategies-Posters-for-Elementary-School-Counseling-Decor-3952185?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=SMC%20Calming%20Posters) Each break spot should have a box with materials that connect to the calming strategy visuals. If you have a calming strategy for deep breathing, include a pinwheel or bubbles. If you have drawing, make sure you have paper and pencils/crayons. Fidget objects can also be perfect items to help a student calm and refocus. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/ACS_0764-scaled.jpg "ACS_0764")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Calm-Down-Corner-Bundle-Customizable-Classroom-Tools-for-Self-Regulation-2003304?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Calm%20Corner%20Post) ## Incorporate It After a student has used a calm corner, I like to extend the process with some self reflection. I have a few ways that I do this. I use a simple [What If Map](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-Behavior-Reflection-Sheets-for-Positive-and-Negative-Behaviors-2153817?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=SEW%20Behavior%20Reflection) which has the student walk through two different decision paths. What if they made a different choice when a triggering event happened? I also might use something like a [Brag Sheet](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-Behavior-Reflection-Sheets-for-Positive-and-Negative-Behaviors-2153817?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=SEW%20Behavior%20Reflection) to have them reflect about using the calm corner effectively. These wouldn’t be a consistent part of the routine, but used sporadically it can be a great way to have students reflect and also open up a discussion. For students I see for individual counseling, I will incorporate [CBT problem solving maps](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/CBT-Problem-Solving-Maps-Problem-Strategy-Solution-Tools-2293296?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=CBT%20Problem%20Solving%20Maps) that helps them connecting negative thoughts and feelings with effective coping strategies. [![Think Sheet Brag Sheet](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/ACS_0042.jpg "ACS_0042")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-Behavior-Reflection-Sheets-for-Positive-and-Negative-Behaviors-2153817?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=SEW%20Behavior%20Reflection)[![CBT problem solving maps](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/IMG_4629.jpg "IMG_4629")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/CBT-Problem-Solving-Maps-Problem-Strategy-Solution-Tools-2293296?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=CBT%20Problem%20Solving%20Maps) A perfect way to incorporate the calm corner naturally is to practice calming strategies as a warm-up, a cool down, a brain break, or with transitions. I like to have [**yoga cards**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Yoga-Cards-for-Kids-Yoga-Sequences-Posters-and-Card-Deck-2727675?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=SEW%20Yoga%20Cards) on hand and go through a couple simple sequences. Each additional exposure to a calming strategy will help students use them independently to regulate their emotions. I also create a **portable** version of the [calm corner](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Regulation-Using-a-Take-A-Break-Spot-or-Calm-Down-Corner-2003304?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=SEW%20Calm%20Corner) so that students can have the calming process easily accessible. This is great for students who are already familiar with the process and require extra support outside of the typical environment. Perfect for field trips and specials classes. [![portable calm down process](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/IMG_4615.jpg "IMG_4615")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Regulation-Using-a-Take-A-Break-Spot-or-Calm-Down-Corner-2003304?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=SEW%20Calm%20Corner)[![yoga cards for calming strategies](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/IMG_4614.jpg "IMG_4614")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Yoga-Cards-for-Kids-Yoga-Sequences-Posters-and-Card-Deck-2727675?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=SEW%20Yoga%20Cards) **Social narratives** are an additional support and reinforcement that can be used to help students become fluent with using the calm corner. In this social narrative, I put each step of the calming process on a page of a mini-booklet and write it in the first person. [![social narrative for calming down](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/IMG_4616.jpg "IMG_4616")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Regulation-Using-a-Take-A-Break-Spot-or-Calm-Down-Corner-2003304?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20SEW%20Calm%20Corners&utm_campaign=SEW%20Calm%20Corner) What do you include in your calm corner? Have questions? Comment below. ![Calm Corners are great additions to a counseling office. When you create a calm down corner make sure to do include comfortable items, step by step calm down process, visuals for feelings and strategies, items to use calming strategies, and fidgets. Consider also how you can incorporate elements of the calm down corner throughout your day. Certain strategies can be used during transitions or as brain breaks. You can follow up with reflection activities to improve a student's self awareness and self regulation.](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/2-5.jpg "2") **Categories:** Behavior, Popular Posts, Your Office **Tags:** calm corner, self regulation --- ### [Ditch the Desks: Get Your Students Up and Moving in Your Counseling Lessons](https://confidentcounselors.com/students-moving-during-counseling-lessons/) **Published:** September 10, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Keri **Content:** If you find yourself reaching for worksheets for classroom guidance lessons and you’re noticing that students are lacking interest or engagement, it’s time to ditch the desks! Getting your students moving to learn and practice the skills you’re targeting in counseling instruction will boost engagement and have your students begging for more classroom guidance time. Sometimes when we think of movement-based activities in counseling, we get hung up on calming movements like yoga. But there are so many other ways we can get our students moving! Keep reading to find ideas to get your students moving during counseling lessons and some simple materials that can be used to create a variety of activities. ## Benefits of Movement in the Classroom The subject of movement in the classroom has been a hot topic in recent years. [Research](http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0031721717702629) has found that students show greater interest in classroom subjects when they are moving while learning compared to their stationary peers. By allowing students to move while they learn, we encourage them to build personal, meaningful connections to the curriculum that are harder to develop while glued to a seat with a worksheet. ## Desk-Free Activities You Can Try This Year ### Escape Rooms [Escape room activities](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/search?type=product&q=escape) are popping up for all academic subjects, and there’s lots of room for counseling topics as well. If you’re unfamiliar with escape rooms, students are essentially working cooperatively to “escape” from some situation that you’ve created by solving puzzles around your topic. For example, in an [empathy escape room](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/empathy-escape-room-empathy-puzzle-solving-activity-for-school-counseling), the situation might be: Oh no! You’re stuck in the self-involved spiral and things are getting lonely! You’ll have to use your empathy skills to escape the spiral and grow your understanding of the people around you. Students will then work together to solve empathy-themed puzzles in order to move through your “escape room” and reach some kind of ultimate final puzzle. They will have to use conversational skills, critical thinking skills, and cooperation skills in order to be successful! [![Get your students moving during counseling lessons! Maximize engagement with hands-on movement based counseling activities for retention and student buy-in.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Ditch-the-Desks-4.png)](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/empathy-escape-room-empathy-puzzle-solving-activity-for-school-counseling) ### Interest Walk Why sit when you can move? I have definitely used paper and pencil career interest assessments in the past because sometimes they’re just convenient in a time-limited situation. But one of my favorite career interest assessment activities is a [career walk](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/career-exploration-classroom-guidance-lesson-for-elementary-school-counseling-1). Using your projector or interactive whiteboard, show statements with multiple responses. Each response will be representative of a different career cluster. Students will choose the response that is most true for them and walk to a specific area of the room and collect a card with a color that represents that same career cluster. For example, if you’re using the 6-cluster model, you will have 6 areas in your room each represented by a different color. Students will see this statement: A goal I want to accomplish in a career is… (blue) form meaningful relationships with people, (purple) perform in front of others, (yellow) create my own company, (green) protect and care for animals, (orange) create products that solve problems, (red) help sick people feel better. Each response for each statement or question represents a different career cluster. For each statement, students will collect one color card that best matches their interests or preferences. At the end of the activity, students will see which color they collected the most and then gather in small groups to learn more about careers in those clusters. So students are still completing a [career interest assessment](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/career-exploration-classroom-guidance-lesson-for-elementary-school-counseling-1), but they are moving around the room to do it! It’s a really simple way to get your students moving while they’re learning. ### 4 Corners Another take on an interest walk is 4 corners. This is adaptable to just about any kind of question and response activity. Students all begin in the middle of the room and the counselor will read a statement. Students will then walk to the corner that best represents their answer or response to the statement. For example, in a [lesson on bullying](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bullying-Prevention-Classroom-Guidance-Lesson-Upper-Elementary-2493103?utm_source=CCPost%20%7C%20Movement%20Activities&utm_campaign=Bullying%20Lesson), “Someone has called me a mean name repeatedly after I asked them to stop.” Students might walk to one of 4 areas that say, “This has happened to me,” “This has happened to someone I care about,” “I have done this to someone,” or “I’ve never seen this happen.” This is just a way to get your students moving, responding, and observing as they do a movement-based assessment. They can see how their peers are responding and start to form reactions and responses about school climate or whatever you are attempting to measure with your activity. They may also find common ground with peers that they wouldn’t necessarily notice from a traditional pencil and paper assessment. With younger students, use 4 corners to help practice identifying emotions, facial expressions, or feelings behind a statement. Label your corners with colors or emotion words. Then, show your students pictures or read statements and let them walk to the corner that best represents the emotion shown. ### Back-Spin [Back-Spin](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/test-taking-strategies-classroom-guidance-lesson-with-test-taking-skills-game) is an activity I created for a particularly high energy class that really loved to move. Highly structured activities just weren’t a good fit for them, so I braved the chaos with this activity. In [Back-Spin](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/test-taking-strategies-classroom-guidance-lesson-with-test-taking-skills-game), each student has a task card or question taped to his or her back. Each student also has a handout with spaces numbered for each task card or question. Students stand on labeled spots on the floor in a circle. Every student turns to the left, reads the task card on his neighbor’s back, and responds on the handout. Students then all spin around 180 degrees and face the other direction. They then respond to the task card on that neighbor’s back. Then, students move to a new space in the circle, standing beside 2 new neighbors. Everyone turns to the left again, continuing to respond to task cards in this manner. For example, in a [test-taking skills back-spin activity](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/test-taking-strategies-classroom-guidance-lesson-with-test-taking-skills-game), task cards will have questions about eliminating wrong answers, underling important words, and quick and effective brain breaks. As you can imagine, this can get chaotic without clear expectations. It’s really important to set expectations about how students will move about the circle so that everyone is safe while still having fun. Of course, sometimes students end up beside neighbors they’ve already been beside, *but it’s okay*. They can review the question again and try to see it from a different point of view. If you have a high energy group of students, you might find that letting them move more, *and being okay with a little bit of chaos mixed with clear expectations*, works well to keep then actually engaged and on task. Letting them use that energy will be more effective than trying to squash it! ### Musical Chairs Students across grade levels love musical chairs! It’s another activity that’s really easy to adapt to any topic or lesson. Simply put your chairs in a circle and label 1-2 chairs. Students will move around the circle as music plays and then sit when the music stops. The student(s) in the marked chairs when the music stops will answer a question or perform a given task. I’ve used this set up to [practice identifying emotions](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/identifying-feelings-classroom-guidance-lesson-early-elementary-counseling), [practice making I feel statements](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/expressing-emotions-classroom-guidance-lesson-for-elementary-school-counseling), [identifying healthy choices](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/healthy-choices-classroom-guidance-lesson-for-early-elementary-counseling), and more. It’s always a crowd-pleaser and everyone gets to move! ![Get your students moving during counseling lessons! Maximize engagement with hands-on movement based counseling activities for retention and student buy-in.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Ditch-the-Desks-2.png) ## Easily Adaptable Supplies for Desk-Free Activities If you’re wanting to incorporate more movement into your lessons, and aren’t sure where to start, consider grabbing some of these easily adaptable supplies: cones, rings, buckets, stress balls, and balloons. ### Cones & Rings: Cones and rings can turn an activity on any topic into a fun game! For an activity on [expressing emotions](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/self-regulation-curriculum-self-regulation-activities-for-school-counseling), label your cones with feeling faces or words. Students can toss a ring and then make an “I feel” statement using the emotion pictured on the cone on which their ring lands. [![Get your students moving during counseling lessons! Maximize engagement with hands-on movement based counseling activities for retention and student buy-in.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Ditch-the-Desks-1.png)](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/self-regulation-curriculum-self-regulation-activities-for-school-counseling) If you have colored cones, you can designate any type of response to a given color. For example, if your ring lands on red, tell us a calming strategy you use when you feel angry. If your ring lands in blue, tell us a positive self-talk statement you use when you’re feeling sad. ### Buckets & Stress Balls Buckets can be used as basketball hoops or for relays along with your stress balls. As a review activity, you can have a student name effective calming strategies while tossing a ball into the bucket. The student can keep naming strategies until he or she makes a basket and then move to the back of the line. Challenge your students to name a certain number of strategies in a time limit to really get them moving quickly and thinking on their feet. For a team-building relay, divide students into teams and give each team a bucket. Two members from each team can link arms back to back and walk to a specific area and answer a question together about the topic you’re teaching. If they give a correct answer, give the students a ball to carry together back to the bucket. The team with the most balls in their buckets at the end of the activity wins! ### Balloons Divide your students into two teams for a game of balloon volleyball. Challenge each team to call out a response each time they tap the balloon. If you’re covering careers, have students call out community helpers in the agricultural sciences career cluster. If you’re covering calming strategies, have students call out calming strategies each time they tap the balloon. This is another really simple activity that is really adaptable to a variety of topics! For a fun twist on a task card activity, number a balloon for each task card you have. Students will stand in a circle and tap balloons (gently) back and forth while music plays. When the music stops, each student will grab a balloon. Call a number, and the student with that balloon will respond to the task card. This is a really easy way to get students out of their seats for a fun spin on an everyday activity. ## Make Your Plan As you begin planning your lessons for the year, look for new ways to incorporate movement. Think of an activity that you typically do with your students that involves worksheets or sitting. Then find some everyday items that can transform your desk-bound activity into a movement-focused exercise. Take note of how your students respond – we think you’ll be happy with what you see in terms of engagement and retention! **Be sure to let us know about your favorite way to get students moving during counseling lessons in the comments section below!** Check out this other post about [Cooperative Activities for School Counseling Lessons](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/22/cooperative-learning-activities-in-school-counseling/). ![Get your students moving during counseling lessons! Maximize engagement with hands-on movement based counseling activities for retention and student buy-in.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Ditch-the-Desks-5.png) **Categories:** Class Lessons **Tags:** classroom lessons --- ### [Student Trauma and School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/student-trauma-and-school-counselors/) **Published:** September 6, 2018 **Author:** School Counselor Stephanie **Content:** Working with students who have experienced trauma can be very challenging, but it is such important work. Oftentimes, these are the kids that need us the most- the ones who have seen and heard and experienced unimaginable burdens. They need us so desperately to help them make sense of the world that they see through their lens of hurt. Since these students spend the majority of their time in school, this is where we must help them be successful, despite the trauma they have experienced. So, in the spirit of helping them to the best of our abilities, let’s dive into this complex and fascinating topic! ## What is Trauma? The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) defines ***a traumatic event*** as > The person experienced, witnessed, or was confronted with an event or events that involved actual or threatened death or serious injury, or a threat to the physical integrity of self or others. Traumatic events include sexual abuse, physical abuse, domestic violence, community and school violence, medical trauma, motor vehicle accidents, acts of terrorism, war experiences, natural and human-made disasters, suicides, and other traumatic losses. According to the[ Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Violence Prevention Website,](https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/acestudy/about_ace.html) Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) is the name that refers to most of the research related to trauma. The CDC considers ACEs to be a major public health issue because they are linked to many lifelong problems such as risky behaviors, chronic health conditions, and even early death. The CDC notes that as the number of ACEs increases, so does a person’s risk for these outcomes. ## Types of Trauma & How Students Experience It Dr. Christine Dobson at the[ Child Trauma Academy](http://childtrauma.org/) explains that there are 3 main types of trauma: **Acute**: usually a one-time event **Complex**: persists over time, often progressive **Developmental**: when complex trauma leads to arrested or delayed cognitive, academic, physical, emotional, spiritual, and/or social development Dobson goes on to explain that children exposed to trauma may experience it by showing symptoms of: - ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/trauma-word-cloud-300x225.png)Difficulty concentrating - Exaggerated startle response - Irritability - Anger outbursts - Hypervigilance - Restricted range of emotion - Avoidant, anxious behaviors - Self-destructive behavior - Low self-esteem - Shame and guilt - Aggressive behavior - Sleep disturbance These behaviors do not necessarily signify trauma, but should be raise concern. ## Classrooms Responsive to Student Trauma Due to the debilitating, lifelong consequences of trauma, it is crucial that have we have tools to support these children. These tools consist primarily of creating safe, stable, and nurturing environments for children. For children experiencing trauma, here are some key supports to create this environment: - Have clear, consistent rules for behavior. - Create a structured and predictable environment. - Set a routine and avoid changing it whenever possible; if change is necessary, prep students. - Build relationships. - Avoid power struggles at all costs. - Stay calm. Additionally, you can train your staff on how to create these types of environments in their classrooms. Dr. Dobson encourages staff to incorporate the 4 R’s into classroom activities whenever possible: relevant to the child’s life, relationship-building, repetitive, and rewards-based. She also emphasizes the importance of staff understanding that the following situations will likely trigger the alarm state in children who have experienced chronic trauma: - impending harm (including getting in trouble). - complex tasks. - confusing/multiple sensory stimuli. - an atmosphere of fear, hunger, exhaustion, pain, illness, or threats. Other times it is difficult to tell what was a trigger for a student and may have been something that occurred earlier in the day. ## Helpful Resources for Student Trauma I work in a high-poverty district where we have many, many students struggling with trauma. As a result, all of our schools employ trauma-informed practices. Meaning, trauma-specific interventions that are designed specifically to address the consequences of trauma and to facilitate healing and success in school. As a result, all of my counseling resources are trauma-informed. Below are some that you can use to help you work with your own students of trauma. - [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Slide1-300x300.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Working-with-Students-of-Trauma-Presentation-for-Staff-3711059)In my newsletter every month, I include a free trauma-informed guidance lesson- [you can sign up for it here](http://eepurl.com/dDUdgH), if you’d like. - If you are working with students in counseling groups, guidance lessons, or even individually, on my School Counselor Stephanie website resources page, you can find this [free healthy coping skills activity](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/resources-links/) to help them manage their negative feelings. - If you work in a school with a lot of students battling trauma, the chances are great that you will also experience a lot of student crisis. A student crisis is typically defined as one of the “3 Hurts”- hurting oneself, hurting another, or someone threatening to hurt them. [Here is a post on crisis intervention and prevention resource](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/14/5-steps-handling-student-crisis-plus-suicide-prevention-resources/)s, if you or your students of trauma need them! - [Here is a link to a presentation on trauma that you can give to your staff! ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Working-with-Students-of-Trauma-Presentation-for-Staff-3711059) ## Trauma Resources Finally, I’d like to leave you with some of my favorite trauma-informed resources. Here they are below… - Films: [Resilience](https://kpjrfilms.co/resilience/) and [Paper Tigers](https://kpjrfilms.co/paper-tigers/) - [TED Talk on Trauma](https://www.ted.com/talks/nadine_burke_harris_how_childhood_trauma_affects_health_across_a_lifetime) from Pediatrician Dr. Nadine Burke - Books/Articles/Websites: - [*Foster Care: One Dogs Story of Change*](https://amzn.to/2NvDQ6t) by Julia Cook - [*Riley the Brave*](https://amzn.to/2POvKXS) by Jessica Sinarski - [*What Do I Say About That*?](https://amzn.to/2wnVyC2) by Julia Cook - [The Sanctuary Model](http://www.sanctuaryweb.com/) from Dr. Sandra Bloom - [*Helping Children Succeed* ](https://amzn.to/2PcIOoQ)by Paul Tough Remember that populations with high trauma can be exhausting to work with because they have so many challenges at home and they bring all these issues to school with them. Keep doing the best you can. You ARE making a positive difference every day. ![school counselors can be essential in approach students who have experienced chronic trauma.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Pin-Student-Trauma-683x1024.jpg) **Categories:** Crisis Response **Tags:** crisis response, trauma --- ### [School Counselors, Do You Lead Student Clubs?](https://confidentcounselors.com/lead-student-clubs/) **Published:** September 7, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Katie, Counselor Keri and Simply Imperfect Counselor **Content:** Student clubs can be an excellent way to connect with students, expand your school counseling program, and address a school wide need. What clubs have you organized or led? ## Peer Leaders When I was working in a grades 7-8 school, I co-led a **Peer Leaders** club. We trained students to be positive influences on their peers, stand up bullying, talk to their friends about healthy choices (drug use, emotional health, etc.) and to look for potential warning signs in their peers’ online statements and activity and everyday discussion. Our main focus was empathy and active listening so that peers could feel heard and also trust the Peer Leaders. We saw great results of students self-referring for counseling after having a meaningful conversation with a Peer Leader. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/circlehead.png "circlehead") Keri **Counselor Keri** I am an elementary school counselor, mental health counselor, and curriculum writer hoping to reach every single student and spark social emotional growth! [Blog](http://counselorkeri.com/) [TPT Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=CK%20Author%20Box) [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/counselorkeri/) ## Student Led Assemblies Student clubs are such an interactive way to get to know students, especially those who do not participate in other counseling related activities with you. I love how clubs serve as a non-academic outlet for students, allowing them to shine! I have ran several different “clubs” in the past. Currently, I am in charge of the **Character Council** students, which is a bit traditional, however, we have taken it to another level! These students plan, organize and present our assemblies. Did I mention, they are 3rd & 4th Graders! During our first meeting, I go over how to brainstorm ideas & talk to the principals about upcoming announcements. Then, they know the routine and carry it out all year. They also, organize guest speakers and showcase other students. It’s really cool when a kid can get on the phone and ask a community member to help out! Last year our students spoke at a school board meeting and a counseling leadership event. I really enjoy being on the sidelines and watching the students grow into amazing leaders. Check out how you can make the switch to [Student-Led Assemblies](https://simplyimperfectcounselor.com/how-to-get-rid-of-teacher-led-assemblies/). ![Simply Imperfect Counselor](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Simply-Imperfect-Counselor.jpg "Simply Imperfect Counselor") Jessica **Simply Imperfect Counselor** I am an elementary school counselor and curriculum writer who loves working with kids along their social-emotional journey, preparing them for their next step in life. [Blog](https://simplyimperfectcounselor.com/) [TPT Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Simply-Imperfect-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SIC%20Author%20Box) [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/simplyimperfectcounselor) ## Positive Peer Mediation As an Elementary Counselor, I currently lead our Positive Peer Mediation Program. Our Positive Peer Mediation Program is a combination of conflict resolution and PBIS tier 1 strategies. Our focus is on Peer Mediation for the 21st Century. The 3rd, 4th and 5th graders are trained to not only support students in solving small problems but they are also trained to catch students making expected choices. They give out our PBIS paw (Hoover Huskies) when they see students meeting any of our 4 expectations. Our expectations are: Respect Peers, Adults, World and Self. The acronym spells out PAWS. Our school is very diverse and we strive to create a culture of inclusivity and positivity. We are very proud of the fact that for the 5th straight year, we have been awarded the Wisconsin PBIS Silver level of recognition. Schools are recognized in Wisconsin for having a equitable level of system support. We have an amazing team of staff and students and we work hard to make this happen. Peer Mediation has truly evolved over the years. It is important in education that we meet students where they are currently at. We also strive to have technology integrated into our Positive Peer Mediation programming. To the online google application from the start to the PBIS video integration that takes place throughout. It is so important to keep students engaged in the process. Check out more information on [Peer Mediation for the 21st Century](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Peer-Mediation-For-the-21st-Century-Bundle-3912945?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20Student%20Clubs&utm_campaign=CK%20Peer%20Mediation). ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Counselor-Katie.jpg "Counselor Katie") Katie **Counselor Katie** 4K-8th grade School Counselor, Instructor in the Masters of Arts in Counseling Program at Lakeland University. It is a privilege to help make a difference in the lives of the students and families I work with every day. [TPT Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Katie?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=CKatie%20Author%20Box) [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/counselor_katie_/) ### Pin for later and share what you have done in the comments below! ![school counselor led student clubs.](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Pin-CC-Conversation-2018-2019.jpg "Pin CC Conversation 2018-2019") **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Your Program **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Katie, Counselor Keri, events, Simply Imperfect Counselor --- ### [School Counselor Organization: Tracking emails, phone calls, and conversations](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselor-organization-tracking-communication/) **Published:** September 14, 2018 **Author:** Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop, EduKate & Inspire and The DIY Counselor **Content:** School counselors interact with so many different people during the day it is easy to forget a quick conversation in the hallway or a parent stopping you at dismissal. Developing a school counselor organization system that will work for you and your school is so necessary. Check out what three Confident Counselors do to manage all the information coming in. ## SCUTA & Notes I use an online program called [SCUTA ](https://www.myscuta.com/)to keep track of everything I do. SCUTA is password protected and organized using the ASCA model categories. It allows you to use a calendar and drop down menu to add notes. I don’t go into much detail, but document who I spoke to, what student we spoke about, and a general word to identify what we discussed (e.g., academics, conflict). I also use an old school approach, a steno pad, to jot down notes daily. I keep all message slips from the office staff and tape them into my steno pad for documentation. I also keep a running list of parent messages and phone calls. For teachers, I really work hard to get referral forms from them. It is hard to remember when teachers randomly find you in the hallway and want to tell you something. If a teacher approaches me, I ask them to email me and I will send them a digital referral form. Or if they would prefer to meet privately, I try to accommodate. I use my trusty steno pad during meetings with teachers, admin, parents, and students. At the end of the day, I log all my conversations into SCUTA. [![The DIY Counselor](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n.jpg "16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Carla%20Author%20Box) I have 25+ years experience as a school counselor, special education teacher, and adult educator. I am an advocate for students and implement a comprehensive program based on the ASCA National Model and the TN state counseling model. For school counseling ideas, visit my [TPT Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Carla%20Author%20Box). # *Carla >> The DIY Counselor* ## Google Forms I keep track of phone calls using the Intake Log I created with Google Forms. It allows me to easily log a quick note about what we talked about and helps me track data. While I am talking on the phone, I often take notes during the call so I don’t forget key details. I keep a “phone call log” in the back of my planner to jot notes on while we talk. It is helpful to refer back to the notes and taking notes also helps to keep me focused on the phone call. You can find the phone call log in my [School Counselor Planner](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/School-Counselor-Planner-2018-2019-Free-Yearly-Updates-2630505?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20Tracking%20Convo&utm_campaign=EK%26I%20Planner) or my [School Counselor Documentation Pack](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/School-Counselor-Documentation-Pack-2638663?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20Tracking%20Convo&utm_campaign=EK%26I%20Documentation). [![EduKate & Inspire](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/New-Logo.png "New Logo")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=EduKate%20Box) Teacher turned school counselor working to help students be their best versions. For school counseling ideas, visit her [TPT Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Author%20Box), follow her on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/edukateinspire/), and read her [blog](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/). # *Kate >>* [*EduKate & Inspire*](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=EduKate%20Box) ## Boundaries and Daily Log No one ever tells you about all the phone calls and emails you will get, or gives you an idea of how to track them. That said, the most challenging to track was always the impromptu hallway conversations. Any delusion I had of my world class memory vanished the moment I chatted with three different teachers in 10 minutes and then got called to respond to a behavior in a classroom. For **hallway conversations**, it is key to set up boundaries and procedures. You can walk down the second grade hallway and wind up with a to-do list a mile long, half of which you’ll forget. If a teacher was **making a referral**, I’d ask them to fill out a referral form that was on my door. Once that was in my mailbox, I would schedule them for a BESST (Behavior, Emotional, Social Support Team) meeting. If they were stopping to talk to me about a student on my caseload or had already been referred, I’d do a bit of quick troubleshooting. If it went beyond a short conversation, I’d tell them to schedule an observation or a 15-minute meeting. When I didn’t have time, I’d tell them to email me 1-2 sentences with their concern and I’d get back to them. Worse case – I carried sticky notes or my phone in my pocket to make quick notes for more urgent issues. At the **end of every day**, I would look through the emails, observation and meeting requests, referral forms and sticky notes. Then spend 30 minutes returning emails, phone calls, and creating my schedule for the day and week. [![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Insta-Logo.png "Insta Logo")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SEW%20Author%20Box) Teacher turned school counselor working to help students be their best versions. For school counseling ideas, visit her [TPT Store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SEW%20Author%20Box), follow her on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/socialemotionalworkshop/) and read her [blog](https://socialemotionalworkshop.com). # *Laura >>* [*Social Emotional Workshop*](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SEW%20Author%20Box)[](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=EduKate%20Box) **What is your system for keeping track of all the phone calls and conversations with teachers and parents?** **Comment below and check out our other posts on** [**School Counselor Organization**](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/office-organization/)**.** ![How do you track all the conversations and phone calls in school? School counselors receive a ton of communication throughout the day and they need to act on a lot of it. What system do you use to track conversations and phone calls?](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Pin-CC-Convo-Track-conversations-1.jpg "Pin CC Convo Track conversations") **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Organization **Tags:** CC tips, EduKate & Inspire, organization, Social Emotional Workshop, The DIY Counselor --- ### [Anger Warning Signs - The Key To Teaching Anger Management](https://confidentcounselors.com/anger-warning-signs-the-key-to-teaching-anger-management/) **Published:** September 17, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Chelsey **Content:** Are you frustrated with anger management? Teaching anger management strategies to kids used to leave me frustrated. Ironic, isn’t it? For years, I felt like I taught coping skills to my students until I was blue in the face, only for them to leave my office and have an outburst minutes later. I didn’t know what was happening – my students could rattle off 15 different coping skills they could use in various settings, but yet they weren’t using them. Sound familiar? Then one day I realized what I was missing. My students weren’t able to manage their anger, because they couldn’t tell WHEN they were getting angry – until it was too late. They couldn’t use their coping skills because they didn’t realize they were angry until AFTER they had already yelled out in class, or hit someone, etc. When/if they thought about using a coping skill, their anger had gotten so intense that it didn’t work. I like to compare it to a common cold. Many times I have ignored my fatigue, runny nose, and sore throat until I was completely miserable, and ended up taking time off work. If I had taken care of myself when the symptoms first began, I would have been able to treat it much easier. I knew I had to change the way I taught about anger. I began to introduce the idea of anger warning signs. **Anger warning signs are the signals our bodies give us that tell us that we are angry**. These look different for every person – some people may experience sweaty palms, some people may start to shut down or get quiet, while others may lash out verbally or even physically. I teach **four categories** of anger warning signs – how your body feels, how your body looks, what you say, and what you do. Once students can identify these signs, they can begin to recognize their anger. ## Practical Ways To Teach About Anger Warning Signs: - **Talk about other “warning signs” that students experience and are familiar with.** Anger warning signs can seem like an abstract concept, so I like to introduce it by helping them recognize other warning signs their body gives them. I explain that warning signs (fire alarms, tornado sirens, etc.) let people know what is coming. Then, we talk about how our bodies give us “warning signs” that tell us what is coming, such as when we get tired, sick or hungry. I then ask them to list ways that they can tell they are experiencing these things, and what happens if they ignore the “warning signs.” Relating their anger warning signs to concepts that they already understand helps them to better comprehend this abstract concept! - Use a visual to help the students understand the four types of anger warning signs. I like to create a simple chart like the one below to help students identify the symptoms they experience when they are feeling angry. Another visual that students love is an actual warning sign. You can make one using yellow construction paper and have students write in their own anger warning signs. Another alternative is to use the [cut and paste activity](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Identifying-Anger-Anger-Warning-Signs-Activity-2831637?utm_source=CCC&utm_campaign=Anger%20Warning%20Signs) from my [TpT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselorchelsey?utm_source=CCC&utm_campaign=TpT%20Store%20Anger%20Warning%20Signs), where students can choose from pre-populated ideas, or again, write in their own. I always tell my students to put these signs in a visible place so they can become more familiar with recognizing their anger. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/IMG_4974-300x238.jpg)This chart can help students better understand what anger warning signs are. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/IMG_4963-300x229.jpg)I love using this cut and paste as a visual reminder to help kids recognize their anger! - Talk about it, talk about it, talk about it! Like any anger management strategy, you need to introduce it and talk about it when the student is calm, but you can also review it with students when they are experiencing anger, and again after they have calmed down. If you are seeing a student for a recent anger outburst, ask the student how he/she knew that he/she was angry. Encouraging the students to think about real life examples will help this concept to become less abstract, consequently becoming easier for them to apply in real life scenarios. Once my students started to become familiar with their anger warning signs, they were able to “catch” their anger before it got too intense, and guess what?! They actually started being able to USE the coping skills that they had learned. This breakthrough has totally changed the way I teach anger management! What are some of your favorite strategies to teach anger management? ![Use anger warning signs to help your students recognize their anger and learn when to use their coping skills to manage their anger!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Instagram-Post-300x300.png) ![Use anger warning signs to help your students recognize their anger and learn when to use their coping skills to manage their anger!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Pinterest-Image-200x300.png) **Categories:** Counseling **Tags:** anger --- ### [10 Ways to Make Small Groups Terrific](https://confidentcounselors.com/10-ways-to-make-small-groups-terrific/) **Published:** September 24, 2018 **Author:** Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor **Content:** Facilitating fantastic small groups is one of my favorite parts of being a school counselor. Small groups offer opportunities for social growth that working one on one with a student does not afford. Often, small groups are the first time students have a safe place to heal. This is their chance to process their emotions, with same-aged peers, who are experiencing similar struggles. Incorporate these ten elements to make your small groups terrific. ### Clear Purpose Ensure that there is a clear purpose for your group and a reason why each student was chosen to participate. Why are they in your group and not sitting in class? Student growth is maximized when students understand the purpose of the group. ### Well Thought Out Lesson Plans I find that small groups that have a solid lesson plan run smoothly and have more meaning. Preplanning six to eight-weeks worth of lessons, with lessons that seamlessly flow from one to another with skills that build upon each other, end up being my most terrific groups. ### Screening of Members (Age, Purpose, Personality) Take careful consideration to group students by age and small group purpose. In my opinion, it is more important that same-aged students are grouped for the same small group purpose, rather than grouping students based on gender or friendship levels. It is important that all students feel comfortable participating in the group. Think of personalities and behavioral clashes when thinking of possible group members. ### Build Rapport With Each Individual Student It is important that each student feel comfortable around you as their counselor and group leader. A level of trust and a bond between you and group members allows the group to be more relaxed. Each group member will be more willing to share their thoughts and feelings or may ask any lingering questions that are on their mind. ### Clear Expectations, Group Norms and Goals People do their best when they know what is expected of them. Set group members up for success with clear expectations, group norms, and well-set goals. Let group members know what you expect from them to maintain membership in the group, including behavioral expectations. ### Fun, Engaging, Crafty Or Artistic Lessons Participation in your small group is a student’s rare chance to get out of class and be able to freely express themselves with more lax rules than within the classroom. Fun, engaging, dynamic lessons (like [Counselor Keri’s movement based lessons](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/10/students-moving-during-counseling-lessons/)) or activities that allow a student to express themselves through art, are a great way to get students to work through their big emotions without pressure. ### Plan For Behavioral Issues What do unacceptable behaviors look like in this small group? How are those who exhibit/display these behaviors handled? What are the group’s consequences for misbehavior? Allow the group members to come up with the norms, group expectations, and consequences for unacceptable behavior. This gives students a feeling of ownership over the group and a buy-in for good behavior. I like to give students silent reminders and warnings to help them curb inappropriate behaviors. As needed, I pass out [modifier and motivator cards](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Behavior-Cards-September-Edition-Get-Students-Back-On-Task-2692473) to help prompt students to think about their behavior and give them a chance to correct any actions that are inappropriate. ![Ten Ways to Make Small Groups Terrific](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/20180902_144359-1-e1536882908143-225x300.jpg) I also use these cards to show students who are meeting expectations that I notice them and give them the motivation to continue to work hard. ### Progress Checks For some, data is the most boring of the ten ways to make small groups terrific; however, data is extremely important. Data is how we prove what we are doing is working. Giving group members a pretest during their first session and that same posttest during the last group session allows you to gather data. You can analyze that data to assess student growth and progress. Having this data allows you to evaluate yourself, measure student growth and shows you areas you should modify and tweak for the next small group. Having the data allows you to prove your students are learning the skills you are trying to teach them. ### Have A Clear End Date Make sure group members are aware of the end date of the group. This is especially important for students who do not like change or who may struggle with losing the small group support. Some students take the group coming to a close pretty hard; therefore we should prep them so that they are prepared and do not feel abandoned when they no longer have group sessions to attend. ### **Flexibility** Things are going to happen. Schedules are going to get mixed up, sessions are going to get canceled, and lessons will get derailed. Allow yourself to be okay with not being fully in control of your own schedule and allow for flexibility. Do what you can to go with the flow as you steer your lesson back on track. These ten ways to make small groups terrific are sure to help your kids get the most out of their small group sessions! What tips would you add? What helps you to facilitate successful small groups? ![Small groups at the elementary level can be difficult. Being proactive by having a clear purpose and pre-screening members helps your small group run a little smoother. Set your small groups up for success with these 10 ways to help make your small group sessions terrific.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Ashley-Small-Groups-1.png) **Categories:** Group Counseling, Uncategorized **Tags:** group counseling --- ### [Creative School Counseling Bulletin Boards](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-bulletin-boards/) **Published:** September 21, 2018 **Author:** Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, Counselor Up and The Responsive Counselor **Content:** I love seeing creative, engaging, and interactive school counseling bulletin boards. There are so many great ideas. Check out some Confident Counselors favorites and share your favorite school counseling bulletin boards on Instagram using the hashtag #confidentcounselorsbulletinboards. ## Interactive and All Year I think the best bulletin boards are the ones you can leave up all year or the ones that are interactive! One type of interactive bulletin board involves the students guessing or matching (Which celebrity went to which college? Which tools go with which careers?). Another is to have removable pieces for students or classes to take as they pass – like acts of kindness to perform or mindfulness “challenges”. [![School counseling bulletin board: be character board](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Be-bulletin-board.jpg "Be bulletin board")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/BE-Bulletin-Board-With-Positive-Character-Traits-3382551?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20Bulletin%20Boards&utm_campaign=TRC%20Be%20Bulletin)![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Picture3.png "Picture3") A school counseling word wall is one you can keep All. Year. Long. Same with this [“BE” bulletin board](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/BE-Bulletin-Board-With-Positive-Character-Traits-3382551?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20Bulletin%20Boards&utm_campaign=TRC%20Be%20Bulletin) about different character or leadership traits. Positive conflict resolution is typically a yearlong issue, so a bulletin board with the different strategies you teach the students is a great reminder. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Picture2.png "Sara Profile Pic") ##### ***Sara, The Responsive Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Responsive-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TRC%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](http://www.theresponsivecounselor.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/theresponsivecounselor/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/TheResponsiveCounselor/)! ## Individual Counseling Boards The one school counseling bulletin board I will always have in my office are the “[**My Achievement Plan**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Counselor-Office-Bulletin-Board-and-Individual-Counseling-Tool-2581633?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20Bulletin%20Boards&utm_campaign=CU%20Achievement%20Plan%20Board)” visuals. I used Glasser’s Control theory to walk students through creating a plan for their success. The board included the five wants, what they are currently doing, how hard they’re willing to work, and creating their plan. I haven’t always had enough space for a real bulletin board but I’ve never gone without this on display. [![my achievement plan board](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/My-achievement-Plan.jpg "My achievement Plan")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Counselor-Office-Bulletin-Board-and-Individual-Counseling-Tool-2581633?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20Bulletin%20Boards&utm_campaign=CU%20Achievement%20Plan%20Board)![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/2695095.png "2695095") Eventually, I wised up and created a note taking sheet to go along with the plan so students can keep track of what they’ve decided to do. You can see the bulletin board in my post about [Counseling Theories for Difficult Students.](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/counseling-theories-for-difficult-students-wall-with-a-purpose) ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Picture1-1.png "Picture1") ##### ***Rebecca, Counselor Up*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Up?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=CUp%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://www.counselorup.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.facebook.com/counselorup/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/counselorup/)! ## Career Bulletin Board I am at the elementary level. One topic I do not always touch on as much as I would like to is career development and readiness. I slide it into my program where I can, but with all the other demands of our job, career readiness sometimes takes a back burner. ![school counseling bulletin board career](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/40531772_528184084262321_5932391627338285056_n.jpg "40531772_528184084262321_5932391627338285056_n") One really fun way to incorporate it into my program is with a [career countdown bulletin board](https://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/2017/08/career-countdown-2016.html)! I take the top twelve careers for the year and reveal them one at a time, week by week. Students really look forward to the end of the week where they can find out what the next top career is. It is awesome to see kids huddled around the board each week talking about the different careers and scheming ways they could one day find themselves in that profession. It also allows for great conversation starters as the kids always ask questions about careers they have never heard of and what it takes to reach various educational levels. [![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Career-Choice-Packet.jpg "Career Choice Packet")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kids-Career-Choices-Career-of-Month-Community-Helpers-2074093?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Career%20Bulletin)![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg "Mrs Bell The Crafty Counselor") ##### ***Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Crafty%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.facebook.com/thecraftycounselor614/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/thecraftycounselor614/)! **What school counseling bulletin boards do you put up? Share below!** **Check out our [10 Tips for Organizing Your School Counseling Space](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/15/school-counseling-office-organization/).** ![Do you put up school counseling bulletin boards? Do you have boards on growth mindset, friendship, or your school motto? Let's share ideas for bulletin boards!](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Pin-Convo-bulletin-boards-1.jpg "Pin Convo bulletin boards") **Categories:** Advocacy, Counselor Chats **Tags:** bulletin boards, CC tips, Counselor Up, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, The Responsive Counselor --- ### [What Parent Events Have You Done At Your School?](https://confidentcounselors.com/parent-events/) **Published:** September 19, 2018 **Author:** Simply Imperfect Counselor and Counselor Katie **Content:** Do you host parents events at your school? Are you thinking about it? Parents events can be a great way to build community, extend your school counseling program, and provide services for families. ## Regular Programming This year, I was trained on the “***7 Habits of Highly Successful Families***“. I think this is spot on for our district. We were searching for something that could help our families, not only with discipline, but with developing their purpose. This is a great tool to teach families because they get to develop family values and learn how to empathize and listen to one another. This is not a one time “parent night” but a series of parent training’s, which they get to take time to understand and practice each new skill. It’s really neat to see families come together and work on something so important! ![Simply Imperfect Counselor](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Simply-Imperfect-Counselor.jpg "Simply Imperfect Counselor") ##### ***Jessica, Simply Imperfect Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Simply-Imperfect-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20blog&utm_campaign=SIC%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://simplyimperfectcounselor.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/simplyimperfectcounselor)! ## Family Nights At my current school we have many different parent nights. Our main focus is family participation. Our families don’t have a lot of disposable income so we try and keep it as low cost as possible. We had a family game night last year. We play traditional board games. The games include: Trouble, Chutes & Ladders, Candy Land, and Monopoly. The staff will jump in on the games with the families. It is a wonderful time to make connections to parents. We also have the Pancake Man come each school year. The Pancake Man is very low cost and it includes all you can eat pancakes. The Pancake Man flips pancakes to the families and they catch them on their plate. We also have our MakerSpace set up in the library during this time. Students love to show their parents how to use the Ozobots and Robots. This is a new experience for our parents and our students love to show off what they learn during the school day. I’m fortunate enough to be able to offer Parenting with Love and Logic courses. I was trained by the Love and Logic Institute in Colorado. Through my training, I worked with 10 Pupil Service staff members in our district to help support additional programming. We’ve been able to open it up to the parents in my building but also throughout the entire district. In my time in the schools, we have had the amazing opportunity to work with over 300 parents. It is one of my favorite pieces of the programming that I provide! I LOVE it! To be able to change individuals lives and help them feel more confident as a parent, there is nothing better. Working toward systemic change is a huge part of why I became a counselor. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Counselor-Katie.jpg "Counselor Katie") ##### ***Katie, Counselor Katie*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Heart-And-Mind-Teaching?utm_source=CC%20blog&utm_campaign=H%26MT%20Author%20Box) for counseling resources. Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/heartandmindteaching/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/HeartandMindTeaching/)! **Read some excellent tips from Mrs Bell The Crafty Counselor on [building relationships with parents](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/07/25/counselor-parent-relationship/) this year.** ![As a school counselor what parent events have you done? Running parent events can be a great way for a school counselor to extend and reinforce their school counseling program.](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Pin-CC-Conversation-2018-2019-1.png "Pin CC Conversation 2018-2019 (1)") **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Parents, Your Program **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Katie, events, parents, Simply Imperfect Counselor --- ### [Empower Students to Report Bullying](https://confidentcounselors.com/empower-students-to-report-bullying/) **Published:** October 1, 2018 **Author:** The Counseling Teacher Brandy **Content:** Bullying happens everywhere. Bullies can be big or small, young or old. Recognizing a bully and taking away their power is a life skill that everyone needs to know and practice. In order to prepare our students for a world with bullies in it, we need to empower students to report bullying and control their reactions to being bullied. Let’s look at what we know about bullies and the **3 R’s of all bullying situations: Reaction, Roll, and Reporting.** ## Our Students Need to Know Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior among school aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, or has the potential to be repeated, over time. Both kids who are bullied and who bully others may have [serious, lasting problems](https://www.stopbullying.gov/at-risk/effects/index.html). When someone is bullying you, - they may be [seeking attention](https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/bullies.html) or popularity. (motivated by insecurity or a lack of attention at home) - they are often sad or angry and want others to feel the same. They want to know that they have bothered you. If you get upset easily, you may become a repeated target. - often they have power (or perceived power) over you. The may be older, bigger, or more popular. - they need an audience (or bystanders) to feel power. Bystanders can help by not reacting positively to bullying behaviors. - you can weaken their power and help prevent bullying. After explaining what bullying usually looks like, we can educate students about the 3 R’s of bullying: Reaction, Roles, and REPORTING. ### Reaction ![Empower students to report bullying](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/bigstock-Proud-young-boy-s-portrait-97486643-203x300.jpg)Reaction is key to stopping bullying. When someone bullies, they may be motivated to get a sad or angry reaction from their target. Others may just like the power they get from bullying (especially if they feel powerless at home). When you react strongly, it gives a perceived sense of power to the bully. Despite the reason, your reaction is important. If you don’t give them the big reaction that they are expecting, they likely will not bully you in the future. It might take a few times for them to understand they can’t get under your skin. The school counselor will practice the following skills with students to empower them to take a stand. Instead of crying or getting angry you can: - Smile & pretend like it doesn’t bother you. - Say something funny to throw them off. - Ignore it completely and walk away. - Be nice to them anyway. Bullying back continues the cycle. ### Roles You can choose a positive role in a bullying situation, you can choose to encourage bullying, or do nothing at all. The first rule of bullying is that “bullies need an audience to have power.” If you see bullying happening, you can choose to take away some of that power simply by not being part of the audience! When you play a positive role in a bully situation, you are playing the role of an upstander. While bystanders merely sit back and watch, an upstander takes action, whether big or small, it’s still a positive action. Upstanders - Won’t laugh at bullying. - May go find an adult. - Might change the subject or distract the audience. - Might speak up for the target. - Will be nice to people who are targeted. - Will not participate as an audience member. ### Reporting Another way to stop bullying is to report it. Once reported, adults can provide resources to both students and help them learn healthy friendship skills. They can also find ways to make sure that a person who bullies you is not near you often or alone with you. If you feel like you are being bullied or witness somebody else being bullied, report it. All schools should have some policy for bullying and a system for reporting. Most schools usually have an anonymous way to report, which means no one will know who reported it. Telling an adult (not in front of other kids) is usually the best method. Reporting is never “snitching.” Remember, everyone needs healthy ways to communicate with others. Many are hurting or confused because they have learned inappropriate behaviors or they are being bullied too. Maybe even at home or by an older friend or family member. Reporting it means that you are getting them help. It’s a win-win situation! Everybody wins when you report bullying! Check out these [ten free bullying resources](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/09/free-bullying-prevention-resources/). Send these brochures home with students as a takeaway to reinforce these tips. [![Empowering students to stand against bullying](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Untitled-design-3.png "Empower against Bullies")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bullying-Brochure-1st-4th-Grade-4050973) Bullying Brochure Grades 1-4 [![Bullying prevention](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Untitled-design-4.png "Bullying prevention")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Bullying-Brochure-4th-8th-Grade-4048249) Bullying Brochure Grades 5-8 ![Empower students to report bullying](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Empowering-Students-to-Report-Bullying-2-683x1024.png) **Categories:** Your Program **Tags:** bullying --- ### [3 Tier Comprehensive School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/three-tier-school-counseling/) **Published:** October 3, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Up **Content:** You have a lot on your plate as a school counselor and more on your to-do list than time. Even if you could work into the night, your students are only there a limited amount of time. So how do you make the most of the short time you have with students each day? By combining a comprehensive counseling program model with [intentional program goals](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/16/school-counseling-program-goals/) and the MTSS framework, you can create a plan that meets the needs of all students. We’ll call it a 3 tier comprehensive school counseling program. ### MTSS The Multi-Tiered System of Support is a framework that supports school improvement. Through research-based practices, we support academics and behavior. This systems approach looks at the school as a whole rather than at the individual student. [Data-driven problem solving](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/solving-the-big-problems) helps to maximize growth for all. This sounds a lot like comprehensive school counseling, right? Let’s break it down. Unlike other initiatives, MTSS looks at the system of the school rather than at each individual child. We want to make sure that we have solid core instruction before we decide that a student is not succeeding or that they need intervention. ### Core Instruction In School Counseling, we use the ASCA [mindsets and behaviors](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/home/MindsetsBehaviors.pdf) to determine the observable behaviors that we want to see in our students so that they can be successful in K-12 and beyond. Core instruction, sometimes called tier 1, is for all students and might be differentiated as needed. In elementary, core instruction in the school counseling program is typically classroom lessons. In high school, core might include senior interviews with all students. The setting can change but the idea is that core is for all. ### Supplemental Support Some students need more. For instance, if you teach self-regulation lessons with first graders and a small group of students hasn’t quite mastered the skills, you might consider supplemental support for them. This level of intervention, sometimes called tier 2, is intended to be in addition to core instruction. In some cases, this might be core instruction provided by other adults in the student’s life or other members of your staff. If a student hasn’t mastered skills that others in their age level have mastered, it might be appropriate to consider supplemental support. ### Intensive Support A small percentage of students need intensive support. In school counseling, this most often looks like wraparound services that support students beyond the school building. It may be [students in crisis](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/06/student-trauma-and-school-counselors/), students with mental health concerns, or students with intense behavior needs. In this case, we are often working with the student individually or in groups. We also collaborate with teachers, consult with parents, and possibly refer to outside resources. We can target specific students in need using data within our [Closing the Gap](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/7-steps-to-asca-national-model-action-plans) plans. Other students might be unique with individualized needs. I like to lay out my plans using the ASCA National Model and then considering each of the tiers when I am planning how to support individual students or groups of students. For instance, if I get 10 referrals for conflict resolution from one grade level, I might consider core instruction to support the skills of the whole grade level. Does your school use the MTSS framework? Share how you incorporate school counseling in the work of the school in the comments, I’d love to hear. ![3 Tier School Counseling program ](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Three-Tier-Pin-683x1024.png) **Categories:** Your Program **Tags:** school counseling program --- ### [What Do You Do When Students Don’t Want To Be In Group?](https://confidentcounselors.com/resistant-small-group-counseling/) **Published:** September 28, 2018 **Author:** Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop, School Counselor Stephanie and Counselor Katie and 2 more **Content:** Have you had students who do not want to come to small group counseling? They seem resistant immediately. Sometimes it takes some flexibility, creativity, and perspective taking on our parts. Check out tips from these five Confident Counselors. ## Make Adjustments Sometimes group members are resistant to participating in the group sessions. It is important to address this issue right away. If they are resistant to a specific activity such as goal work or role playing, you might tell them that, for this session only, they may just observe the activity. If the resistance continues into the next session or if they just refuse to attend group, try meeting with the resistant member individually to explore the problem and develop a more comprehensive solution. In this individual session, spend 5–10 minutes discussing what is causing their discomfort. If necessary, guide them to the idea that practicing their strategies in a safe, group situation is necessary in order to achieve what they want for themselves (such as improving their grades, getting along with friends or teachers, etc.). Sometimes the best solution is to remove a resistant member from group and work one-on-one until they are ready for the group experience. You can find more ideas on addressing resistant group members in my group guide, *[The Calm Downers](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Calm-Downers-Anger-Management-Small-Group-Guide-3883564). ![school counselor stephanie logo](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/SchoolCounselorStephanie.png "SchoolCounselorStephanie") ##### ***Stephanie, School Counselor Stephanie*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counselor-Stephanie?utm_source=CC%20blog&utm_campaign=SCS%20Author%20Box) and get [counseling ideas](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/) on my blog. Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/schoolcounselorstephanie/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/schoolcounselorstephanie/)! ## Find The Reason Why This is going to happen and it’s okay. When thinking about how to address this, try to get to the bottom of why the student is resistant. This will inform how you respond. You can: - re-adjust expectations (carefully), - make modifications or accommodations, - provide transition support, - use engagement strategies, or - adjust your services. **Is the student embarrassed to go to counseling?** Try to provide discreet ways for the student to come and go from group. Give them some frequently asked questions that other students ask. **Does the student not know what is expected in counseling?** Review with the student the structure of the group and what kinds of activities you will do. This is your chance to sell it. **Does the student not know what they can get out of counseling?** Focus on what the students wants to accomplish or change. They are likely referred to counseling by adults in their lives. Make a case to them about why this will help them using their language and motivations.. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Insta-Logo.png "Insta Logo") ##### ***Laura, Social Emotional Workshop*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SEW%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://socialemotionalworkshop.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/socialemotionalworkshop/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/SocialEmotionalWorkshop/)! ## Let Them Take a Test Run At the elementary level, it doesn’t happen very often. Students are so excited to come work with Mrs. KC. When it does happen, I sit down with the student to see what their concerns are. It is typically that they don’t want to be singled out or they are worried about how it will look when I come and get them. It is almost always a student that is new to our building. About 1/3 of our population is new to our school each year. We have a transient population. During this conversation, I ask them to take part in the first session and see what they think. I explain that if they are not interested after the first session, no problem. This usually does the trick. They are sold on group time and how much fun and learning takes place during this time. But if they are still hesitant, I will ask a student that has been at the school to talk to the student. Once they talk to them, they realize it is a wonderful time to connect. Group time should be fun and it is about the relationship that you have with your student(s). I really believe that is why it is a student that is new to the school that might have hesitancies. They have not had a chance to get to know me and see how much I genuinely care about them. Once they see how much I care about them, group time becomes a time for connection. They end up loving the time together. You just have to get them sold on giving it a try. Relationship is key! ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Counselor-Katie.jpg "Counselor Katie") ##### ***Katie, Counselor Katie*** Visit my TPT store for counseling resources. Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/counselor_katie_/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/counselorkatiekc/)! ## Make Them a Co-Leader When parents give me a heads up that their child will not want to be in the group or I can sense it by their demeanor, I always meet with them privately and talk in depth about what the group is about. We discuss what we will be talking about in the group, the purpose and goals, and different activities we will be doing. Some of the activities I use are from this [Small Group Counseling Curriculum]((https%3A//www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Social-Skills-Small-Group-Counseling-Curriculum-2687709)). I then ask for their help to co-lead the group, and I explain to them how much I truly need their help to make the group successful. **What does that look like?** They keep time and give us a 5 minute warning that group is almost over, they spend their lunch break (if they want to) once a week helping me prep the activity, they remind group members of the group rules, they come 5 minutes early and stay 5 minutes late to help me prepare/clean up, and sometimes they even come up with their own ideas to help lead. They love taking on a leadership role and really come to embrace the group, plus it helps me out which is a win-win. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Store-logo.png "Store logo") ##### ***Ashley, Heart and Mind Teaching*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Heart-And-Mind-Teaching?utm_source=CC%20blog&utm_campaign=H%26MT%20Author%20Box) for counseling resources. Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/heartandmindteaching/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/HeartandMindTeaching/)! ## Flexible Services The main thing I do NOT do is leave it alone! Sometimes, students don’t want to share personal information in a group setting and I totally respect that. If they have been referred by a teacher or a parent it makes it a priority for me to start seeing them somehow, because there are concerns which warranted the referral. So, if the student is uncomfortable with a group setting, I would pull the student out individually and work that way for a while. If the need is for social skills and working with others, I would create a more relaxed group setting where we play games (maybe even outside) and develop the skills they need in a non-threatening environment. ![Simply Imperfect Counselor](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Simply-Imperfect-Counselor.jpg "Simply Imperfect Counselor") ##### ***Jessica, Simply Imperfect Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Simply-Imperfect-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20blog&utm_campaign=SIC%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://simplyimperfectcounselor.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/simplyimperfectcounselor)! **Check out [these other posts](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/group-counseling/) on making group counseling work!** ![Students who refuse small group counseling can be a challenge. 5 Confident Counselors give tips for how to get students on board and still provide effective services.](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Pin-CC-Conversation-2018-2019.png "Pin CC Conversation 2018-2019") **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Group Counseling **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Katie, group counseling, Heart and Mind Teaching, School Counselor Stephanie, Simply Imperfect Counselor, Social Emotional Workshop --- ### [Books and Resources for Bullying Prevention Lessons](https://confidentcounselors.com/bullying-prevention-resources/) **Published:** October 5, 2018 **Author:** The DIY Counselor, The Responsive Counselor and Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor **Content:** Bullying is something school counselors address in whole class lessons, small groups, individual counseling, and in quick emergency sessions. It is helpful to have books and resources for bullying prevention lessons and conversations you can pull off the shelf whenever you need them. What’s on your list? Check out these Confident Counselors’ suggestions and share yours in the comments. ### Juice Box Bully Hands down, the book I love most for developing positive classroom community, preventing bullying behaviors, and teaching students how to be upstanders is [Juice Box Bully](https://amzn.to/2y1H6k1) by Maria Dismondy and Bob Sornson. It’s got a great message of empowered students choosing to make their class a positive, safe place without being preachy. The book tells the story of a new mean student and how his classmates help him to understand “the promise” that their class made for how to treat one another. I use this [companion resource](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Upstander-Lesson-and-Activities-for-Juice-Box-Bully-Say-Something-or-DARE-3059610?utm_source=CC%20blog&utm_campaign=TRC%20Juice%20Box) with classes and sometimes groups to practice how to be an upstander in different situations and to create a class pledge. [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1933916729&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US)](https://www.amazon.com/Juice-Box-Bully-Empowering-Others/dp/1933916729/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&qid=1538689006&sr=8-1&keywords=juice+box+bully&linkCode=li3&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=4801336ba7b56b1fde1e316c64acd529&language=en_US)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=1933916729) [Juice Box Bully](https://amzn.to/2y1H6k1) [![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Picture2.png "Sara Profile Pic")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Responsive-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TRC%20Author%20Box) ##### ***Sara, The Responsive Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Responsive-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TRC%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on my [blog](http://www.theresponsivecounselor.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/theresponsivecounselor/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/TheResponsiveCounselor/)! ### Tease Monster My favorite book to use during bullying prevention lessons is the [Tease Monster](https://amzn.to/2IJfFzX) by Julia Cook. I love this book because it allows me to teach students the difference between teasing and bullying in a clear understandable way. Often, students misinterpret friendly teases and report the incident as bullying without the understanding that at times teasing isn’t meant to hurt feelings. I think it is important to teach our little ones that teasing can be meant in good fun, but that there is a line that can be crossed where friendly teasing starts to enter bullying territory. I use this [resource](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Tease-Monster-difference-between-mean-and-friendly-teases-3470238?utm_source=CC%20blog&utm_campaign=TCC%20Tease%20Monster) along with the book to help students think critically about friendly vs. mean teases. [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1934490474&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US)](https://www.amazon.com/Tease-Monster-Bullying-Building-Relationships/dp/1934490474/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&qid=1538689491&sr=8-1&keywords=tease+monster&linkCode=li3&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=08483693730a1743c2df278d40f5ac5f&language=en_US)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=1934490474)![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg "Mrs Bell The Crafty Counselor") ##### ***Ashley, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Crafty%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on my [blog](https://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/mrsbellthecraftycounselor/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/thecraftycounselor614/)! ### The Bully, The Bullied, and Beyond [The Bully, The Bullied, and Beyond](https://amzn.to/2OGIPEY) is an older book, but has been my go-to for working with students who are targets of bullying or who need to learn strategies to respond to negative behavior from others. What I love about this book is that it gives practical suggestions for all students involved in the bullying circle. It can be used with individuals, groups, or in a classroom setting for bullying prevention lessons. [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1889636762&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US)](https://www.amazon.com/Bully-Bullied-Beyond-Esther-Williams/dp/1889636762/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&linkCode=li3&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=65b5c90dd07d8b3589c4d9e3c613df9b&language=en_US)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=1889636762)![The DIY Counselor](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n.jpg "16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n") ##### ***Carla, The DIY Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20blog&utm_campaign=DIY%20Author%20Box) for counseling ideas. Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thediycounselor/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/DIYcounselor/)! #### What are your go to books and resources for bullying prevention lessons? Share in the comments below. Check out these other posts for more information and resources on bullying prevention. - [Preventing Bullying: Tips for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/10/17/preventing-bullying-school-counselors/) - [Empower Students to Report Bullying](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/01/empower-students-to-report-bullying/) - [10 Free Bullying Prevention Resources](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/09/free-bullying-prevention-resources/) ![Bullying prevention is a regular part of a school counselor's job. It is necessary to have bullying resources and books about bullying on hand in your office. These Confident Counselors share their favorite resources to address bullying in small group, whole class, and other school counseling lessons.](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/CC-Pin-Convo-Posts-102F18-122F18.jpg "CC Pin Convo Posts 1018-1218") **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Class Lessons, Your Program **Tags:** book recommendations, bullying, CC tips, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, The DIY Counselor, The Responsive Counselor --- ### [What Does Your School Do to Recognize Red Ribbon Week?](https://confidentcounselors.com/red-ribbon-week-ideas/) **Published:** October 12, 2018 **Author:** Pawsitive School Counselor and The DIY Counselor **Content:** Every year **Red Ribbon Week** takes place October 23 to October 31. National Family Partnership has a [number of new resources](http://redribbon.org/blog/new-curriculum-resources-for-2018-Red-Ribbon-Week/) on their site this year. Laura from The Paws-itive School Counselor and Carla from The DIY Counselor share how they are recognizing the week at their schools. What are you doing this year? ## School Wide Activities We engage in school wide activities such as a wear red day. We also host a poster contest for students and encourage teachers to read a book about healthy choices with their classes. I giveaway bracelets, stickers, and bookmarks to students and teachers that participate in the activities. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Laura-Filtness-Logo.jpg "Laura Filtness Logo") ##### ***Laura, The Paws-itive School Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Paws-itive-School-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TPSC%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://pawsitiveschoolcounselor.wordpress.com/blog/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/pawsitiveschoolcounselor/)! ## Theme Days Our school has a variety of ways that we have celebrated Red Ribbon Week. Using the National Theme, we develop daily activities like dress up competitions, morning announcements, a week long trivia contest, and guest speakers. We have giveaways and prizes for winners in the dress up and trivia contest. The October classroom lessons are geared to decision making and drug and alcohol awareness. [Natural High](https://naturalhigh.org/) is a great resource for curriculum and activities to address this topic. ![The DIY Counselor](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n.jpg "16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n") ##### ***Carla, The DIY Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20blog&utm_campaign=DIY%20Author%20Box) for counseling resources. Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thediycounselor/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/DIYcounselor/)! What are you doing this year? Share in the comments below. ![Red Ribbon Week is October 23 to October 31 every year. Schools across the country recognize the week with a series of activities aimed at promoting drug prevention. What do you do for red ribbon week?](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Convo-Pin-Red-Ribbon-Week.jpg "Convo Pin Red Ribbon Week") **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Your Program **Tags:** CC tips, drug abuse prevention, Paws-itive School Counselor, red ribbon week, The DIY Counselor --- ### [10 Ways to Help Students Who Worry](https://confidentcounselors.com/10-ways-to-help-students-who-worry/) **Published:** October 15, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Keri **Content:** One box I can always count on being checked on the needs assessment is ☑WORRY. Our students are coming to school with worries about friendships, home life, their school performance and so much more. Researchers estimate that [nearly 32% of adolescents](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/any-anxiety-disorder.shtml) (ages 13-18) experience an anxiety disorder. Additionally, [in a survey of children aged 10-11 in England and Scotland](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-38861155), 40% of students said their worries get in the way of their school performance. So how can school counselors help kids with worry? Keep reading to find 10 ways to support your students. # 10 Ways to Help Kids With Worry ## Psychoeducation Teach students what worry is and how it affects their thoughts, feelings, and actions. Worries can be magnified when students cannot understand what they are, why they’re happening, and their effects. Help your students understand the signs and symptoms of worry, and explain how you will work together to address them. Don’t be afraid to use words like amygdala, hippocampus, and fight or flight! The students I’ve worked with really want to know what’s going on and jump at the chance to learn about their brains and bodies. To help students understand what worry is, I like to use an analogy: worry is like carrying a big stack of books. The stack is so tall that it blocks our eyes. We can’t see anything but the big stack of books. If we try to look around the stack, we might get a little glimpse of something else, but the stack might start to wobble so we have to give all of our focus to the books. Our muscles might start to get tense because the stack is heavy. Our backs might start to hurt after carrying the books for a while. We might start to feel frustrated or overwhelmed after giving all of our attention to the books for so long because we can’t enjoy anything else. Worry can feel the same way. It’s hard to focus on anything but our worries. Worries might block our view of what’s actually happening and take a toll on our whole bodies. [![10 Ways School Counselors Can Help Kids With Worry: Use these worry strategies to help your students manage their worries at school. Help your students with these school counseling worry activities.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Feed-Your-Worries-to-the-Whale-11.png)](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/worry-workbook-presale-worry-warrior-journal) ## Keep a Journal Help your students to [keep a journal of their worries](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/worry-workbook-presale-worry-warrior-journal). They can note their actual worries, the location and time of their worries, and how they feel in their bodies when the worries invade. This will help students to recognize patterns in their worries. They might notice worries are more prevalent during group projects or while they’re on the bus. Your students might notice their worries tend to be about speaking up in a group no matter the location. They might also pick up on physiological symptoms and clues that will help them to better recognize worry triggers in the future so that they can utilize management skills. [![10 Ways School Counselors Can Help Kids With Worry: Use these worry strategies to help your students manage their worries at school. Help your students with these school counseling worry activities.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Feed-Your-Worries-to-the-Whale-14.png)](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/worry-workbook-presale-worry-warrior-journal) ## Name It Help your students to see their worries as separate from themselves. They can personify their worries as scary monsters, annoying buzzing bees, or some other creature. Students can name their worry creature so that they can talk to it, refute its statements, and give it explicit directions like, “Stop buzzing in my ear, Worry Bee! I’m not listening to you anymore.” ## Self-Talk Help your students [develop self-talk messages](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/worry-workbook-presale-worry-warrior-journal) to remind them of their power over their worries. Then, practice saying them aloud. Give your student sticky notes or index cards to write the self-talk messages on and place them in areas they will see like on a mirror at home or the inside cover of a notebook. If your student is worried about speaking up in class, his self-talk messages might sound like - My ideas and questions are important too. - I can raise my hand. - My ideas help our class grow. ![10 Ways School Counselors Can Help Kids With Worry: Use these worry strategies to help your students manage their worries at school. Help your students with these school counseling worry activities.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Feed-Your-Worries-to-the-Whale-10.png) ## Grounding Exercises For in-the-moment worry management, teach your student to [utilize grounding exercises](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/worry-workbook-presale-worry-warrior-journal). Here are my 3 go-to grounding methods: - Name 5 things you see, 4 things you hear, 3 things you can touch, 2 things you smell, and 1 thing you can taste. - Name 5 colors you see, 4 sounds you hear, 3 shapes you see, 2 things you can hold in your hand, and say 1 thing you can do right now. - Stand or sit firmly in place. Feel the weight of your feet on the ground. Wiggle your toes and notice how they feel as they tickle the ground. Raise and lower your heels. Notice how your heels press into the ground as you come back down. Say, “I am firmly planted in \[this place\].” [![10 Ways School Counselors Can Help Kids With Worry: Use these worry strategies to help your students manage their worries at school. Help your students with these school counseling worry activities.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Feed-Your-Worries-to-the-Whale-8.png)](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/worry-workbook-presale-worry-warrior-journal) ## Breathing Exercises Another tool to use in the moment is controlled breathing. Students can utilize breathing exercises to calm their [racing heart rate or breathing rate](https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/relaxation-techniques-breath-control-helps-quell-errant-stress-response) when worries seem overpowering. Here are 3 breathing exercises to try with your students: - **Bee breathing**: Breathe in deeply through your nose counting to 4. Hold the breath for a count of 4 and then blow it out while buzzing like a bee. If you’re working with a group, see who can draw out their buzzing the longest to encourage students to slow the exhale. - **Animal friend breathing**: This can be done with any kind of stuffed animal. Students will lie on their backs on the floor and place a stuffed animal on their bellies. Inhale for a count of 4, watching the animal rise up as their lungs are filled with air. Hold the breath for a count of 4 and then slowly release for a count of 7, watching the animal slowly fall back down. This method helps students to really visualize the rise and fall of their breaths. - **Lazy 8 breathing:** For a silent, seated breathing exercise students can do anywhere, practice lazy 8 breathing. Give students a printable of the number 8 lying on its side. Students begin on one side of the 8, tracing it with their fingers. The will inhale as they trace half of the 8 and exhale as they trace the other half of the 8. ![10 Ways School Counselors Can Help Kids With Worry: Use these worry strategies to help your students manage their worries at school. Help your students with these school counseling worry activities.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Feed-Your-Worries-to-the-Whale-7.png) ## Focus on Control Some students come to their school counselors with some very real worries from home. Help your students to understand what they can and cannot control and then focus on the things they can actively do to help themselves. To help students understand this, I like to use a rock and play dough. The rock represents things we cannot control. The playdough represents things we can control. What happens when we squeeze a rock? Nothing. We can’t change the rock. What happens when we squeeze play dough? We can shape it, mold it, and change it. The same is true for worries. When we worry about things outside of our control, we do not change them. When we instead focus on things we can control, we can make positive changes to help ourselves feel better. ![10 Ways School Counselors Can Help Kids With Worry: Use these worry strategies to help your students manage their worries at school. Help your students with these school counseling worry activities.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Feed-Your-Worries-to-the-Whale-4.png) ## Give Away Worries Create a space where students can write down their worries and give them away, leave them behind, or tear them up! The act of giving away their worries is helpful for some students to let go before going to class. Others will enjoy tearing up a paper with their worries as they can visualize themselves destroying the worry. I have a [brief story about a whale](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/worry-activity-worry-story-activity-for-school-counseling) who teaches students some breathing and grounding exercises to use when they are feeling worried. Then, the whale offers to take on students’ worries when they just can’t hang on to them by themselves. Students write their worries on a fish and then [feed them to the whale](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/worry-activity-worry-story-activity-for-school-counseling)! [![10 Ways School Counselors Can Help Kids With Worry: Use these worry strategies to help your students manage their worries at school. Help your students with these school counseling worry activities.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Feed-Your-Worries-to-the-Whale-1.png)](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/worry-activity-worry-story-activity-for-school-counseling) [![10 Ways School Counselors Can Help Kids With Worry: Use these worry strategies to help your students manage their worries at school. Help your students with these school counseling worry activities.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Feed-Your-Worries-to-the-Whale.png)](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/worry-activity-worry-story-activity-for-school-counseling) ## Practice Mindfulness Much like the grounding exercises, practicing mindfulness will help your students focus on the present moment and pull themselves out of the worry spiral. Practice a [mindful object focus, a focused body scan, or zen coloring](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindful-monsters-mindfulness-activities-for-kids-with-26-mindfulness-scripts-for-classroom-guidance-lessons-or-small-group-counseling) with mandalas. Teach your student to implement these strategies in the moment to gain clarity on the what’s going on in and around them right now. [![10 Ways School Counselors Can Help Kids With Worry: Use these worry strategies to help your students manage their worries at school. Help your students with these school counseling worry activities.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Feed-Your-Worries-to-the-Whale-2.png)](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindful-monsters-mindfulness-activities-for-kids-with-26-mindfulness-scripts-for-classroom-guidance-lessons-or-small-group-counseling) ## Calming Bedtime Routine If your students notice their worries are more pervasive at night, help them to develop a calming bedtime plan. Discuss a time to turn off screens to help students calm their minds. Practice a calming yoga or stretching routine to help students relieve tension before bed. You can even use a shoebox to help students create a worry box. Your students can write their worries on papers, put them in the box, secure the lid tightly on the box and tuck it away. If your student has created a personification of her worry or named her worry, she can label the box something like, “Walter’s Night Time Worry Cage” to signify that she’s locking up Walter and his worries for the night so that she can sleep. ![10 Ways School Counselors Can Help Kids With Worry: Use these worry strategies to help your students manage their worries at school. Help your students with these school counseling worry activities.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Feed-Your-Worries-to-the-Whale-5.png) # Final Thought While general student worries can be appropriately addressed in individual or small group counseling in the school setting, know when to refer out. If your student’s worries are more than just worries and you suspect your student is dealing with an anxiety disorder, suggest appropriate referrals to medical professionals and therapists who can provide more intensive long-term treatment. **How do you help kids who worry?** **Share your tried and true strategies in the comments!** ![10 Ways School Counselings Can Help Kids With Worry: Use these strategies to help your students manage their worries at school.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/2-3.png) **Categories:** Counseling, Popular Posts **Tags:** anxiety --- ### [College and Career Activities for Middle School](https://confidentcounselors.com/college-career-activities/) **Published:** October 17, 2018 **Author:** The DIY Counselor **Content:** Middle school students are my favorite! All that energy and enthusiasm. They are like sponges, just soaking up new ideas and wanting to know more! According to recent research, middle school is the prime time to promote college and career readiness. Getting students to envision their lives five or ten years down the road is a challenge. The unique role of school counselors enables us to provide experiences and resources that will help students see the future. So, what can we do to help middle school students have fun and learn about themselves? ## **Discover Interests** ### ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Slide1-300x180.png) Encourage students to get involved. Middle schoolers like to stay comfortable. Extracurriculars provide opportunities for students to try new things. They can develop skills that are not learned in a classroom. Interest inventories help students to begin thinking about what they like to do. [Education Planner](http://www.educationplanner.org/students/career-planning/index.shtml) has a great college and career section that is interactive and has a variety of activities. Students need to see the purpose in their academics. Connecting academics to related careers can help with that. Work with classroom teachers to identify ways to promote careers in their subject area. I organize a college and career expo to introduce students to a variety of careers. Guest speakers and job shadowing are other ways to give students hands-on experience. ## **Explore Careers** Give students opportunities to learn about careers. There are online websites for students to learn about career pathways, career fields, and career clusters. To provide a virtual career fair, students research their favorite career and create a presentation for the class. Use learning centers, choice boards, and bulletin boards for interactive career exploration. This [Careers Choice Board](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Careers-Choice-Board-and-Learning-Centers-2876095) learning center activity is a great introduction to careers. [![Discovering interests, exploring careers, and learning about colleges are ways to help middle school students become college and career ready.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-03-at-12.20.09-AM.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Careers-Choice-Board-and-Learning-Centers-2876095) ## Learn About Colleges Some students have never seen a college campus, nor thought about what college to attend. Teach students about all things related to college. I use a college fact sheet that explains the different types of colleges, vocational schools, and degrees. The fact sheet compares the cost of public and private colleges. Students locate college admissions info online, where they can do virtual tours of college campuses. Local college recruiters attend our annual college and career expo, providing students admissions and scholarship info. ![Discovering interests, exploring careers, and learning about colleges are ways to help middle school students become college and career ready.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/accomplishment-celebrate-ceremony-267885-300x200.jpg) ## **Transition to High School** Connect with your high school to create a student shadow day. Students visit the high school for a few hours, allowing time to attend classes and interact with older students. Another transition activity is a parent info night, providing course selection information and a question and answer session with the high school counselor. Similarly, invite high school students to lead a panel discussion about what to expect their ninth-grade year. Finally, encourage students to attend high school sporting events, concerts, and other types of performances to get a sense of the school culture. There are so many ways to address college and career readiness with middle school students. It should be fun, interactive, and low pressure. Provide students with resources and experiences and they can do the rest. **More on College and Career Activities**: Check out this [post](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/21/smart-goals-counseling/) to help students set college and career goals. ### What do you do to get middle school students college and career ready? ![College and career activity ideas for Middle school students. ](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/college-and-career-pin.png) **Categories:** Career Development, College **Tags:** career development, college, Middle School --- ### [5 School Counseling Activities Using Candy](https://confidentcounselors.com/counseling-candy/) **Published:** October 29, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Chelsey **Content:** Halloween is coming! Which at my house means there is a lot of excess candy lying around that I can’t (shouldn’t) eat all by myself. If only I had access to a school full of kids who would love to help me eat it … Oh, wait. I do. While I don’t usually love pumping elementary students full of sugar, I think it can be helpful every once in a while! Thankfully, there are tons of ideas on how to incorporate candy into your school counseling lessons, so at least the students are learning important social-emotional skills while they enjoy their treats! Check out these 5 creative school counseling activities using candy. ### **Use Candy To Teach About Diversity** Using M&M’s to teach about diversity is one of my favorite lessons for my little learners. The visual really sticks with them, and of course, they love the candy! For this lesson, I begin by talking about the ways that we all look different. Some of us have blonde hair, some of us wear glasses, some of us are shorter, some of us have different skin colors. I ask the students to share the ways that they look different than their classmates. Then, we talk about whether or not these differences make anyone better than anyone else. Is one person better than another just because he has brown hair? The answer is no! To illustrate this, I pass out a few M&Ms to each student. I encourage them to look at the M&Ms and decide whether they all look different or the same. Students will comment on the different colors or other differences in the M&Ms. Then, I let the students eat their M&Ms, and encourage them to eat them one at a time. I then ask if the candy tasted any different or if one piece was better than another piece. The answer again is no! Then, we talk about how people are like M&Ms. We may look different on the outside, but we are the same on the inside and our external differences don’t make us any better than others. #### Student Reflection Questions 1. What can you do to make the people around you feel valuable, regardless of how they look? 2. What can you do to remind yourself that you are valuable, regardless of how you look? 3. Why is it important to value everyone, regardless of how they look? ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/4MR-xsIVSQefuoC8YAqbQd-yfkGRa-JVng3JLqGcUm3yKoJIFiMdy9_hrssDTXDS6mk5GvL6pxE3yaYmFANZoTSniVjwUqvk6eGzm9Spcqf5Qn1eeme9vNkD2u3QHlII6rRFpiiI) ### **Use Candy To Teach Mindfulness** Mindful eating is one of my favorite ways to introduce and practice the concept of mindfulness. One activity that both my students and I enjoy is practicing mindful eating by using a pack of Smarties. First, I give each student a pack of smarties and encourage them to look at the pack, noticing everything they can about the way the pack looks and the way it feels in their hands. Then, I instruct them to slowly unwrap the pack, again noticing how it looks, how it sounds, and how they are using their movements to open the package. Once the package is open, I encourage them to look closely at each Smartie – do they look different or the same? What subtle differences can they notice? Then comes the fun part – tasting the Smarties! Students will do this very slowly and carefully, one at a time, letting the Smarties dissolve in their mouths. Encourage your students to notice the way the Smarties feel in their mouth and to try to notice the specific taste of each flavor. #### Student Reflection Questions 1. How was this experience different than how you normally eat Smarties? Did you notice anything new? 2. Was anything about this activity difficult for you? Why can it be difficult to stay fully focused on the moment? 3. Part of mindfulness is being fully present in what you are doing. How could this be helpful? ### **Use Candy To Teach Self Control** I love using this activity in self-control small groups or when I am working with individual students. It is great because it can be done in addition to whatever you are already doing – and it gives students a chance to PRACTICE the skill of self-control, not just talk about it. For this activity, you will need several pieces of candy, but the type of candy doesn’t matter. You will tell students that they can have one piece of candy now, 2 pieces if they can wait until halfway through the lesson, or 3 pieces if they can wait until the end of the lesson. Sometimes I also like the make the quality of candy better if they can wait longer. I make a piece of paper that says “Now” “Half Way” and “At The End” and keep the candy displayed in the proper place. Students then need to decide what choice they are going to make. Will they be able to use self-control to wait for the bigger prize? It is important to not influence the students – let them make their own decisions. Letting them make their own choice also provides you with information regarding where their self-control skills are. #### Student Reflection Questions 1. Was this activity easy for you or difficult? 2. Are you satisfied with your decision, or do you wish you would have done something differently? 3. Why is self-control important? ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/ZkOw7vQtwArMOflaxiS3BiHmdKzBc8ID_WMpavEmvTg0eQa1GZjW-eZf2d4VVR3h28uwQtWXcSx1TUz843DQcUiTvamWMYc9e6sX12S48fP9qs_g9WQtJCoNQvS2NNUkMFtkiXnf)Keeping the candy visible helps remind your students to use self-control! ### **Use Candy To Teach Perseverance** This is a lesson kids love because it involves sour candy, and my students always love to talk about how tough they are for being able to handle the sour taste. For this lesson, I have always used Warheads, but you can use anything that starts out sour and then turns sweet. Before giving the students the candy, talk about how the hard things we do in life can often lead to great results. Ask your students to share something difficult they have done that had a great result (e.g., training for a race, studying for a test, etc.). To further demonstrate this concept, give them each a piece of sour candy. Encourage them to notice the initial sour taste and also the sweetness once the sour taste begins to fade. Use this to demonstrate that if we can push through the difficult things, we can enjoy the “sweet,” positive outcome. #### Student Reflection Questions 1. What is something difficult that you have done? Were you able to push through? 2. Why is perseverance important? 3. How can thinking of the end result help you with perseverance? ### **Use Candy To Discuss Any Topic** If you are looking to use candy to teach a social-emotional skill that I haven’t discussed yet, fear not! This activity is a perfect way to get students talking, and can be used for any topic! All you need is candy that comes in multiple colors (e.g., Skittles, M&M’s, Starburst, etc.) and a list of questions. You will write down one question for each color of the candy. The questions can be “get to know you” questions or questions that will help you gauge your students’ understanding of a topic. I like to use this activity when I am first meeting with students or in the first or last session of a small group. For example, for the last week of an anger management small group, you may write down questions that ask about why anger management is important, how they have practiced it, what they have learned from the group. Students will get a small pack or cup of the candy, and then answer the questions that correspond to the colors they have. This can be done in the group setting, or you can have students partner up. ![Use multi-colored candy to get to know your students, or get them talking about any topics!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Candy-post-pic.jpg) #### Student Reflection Questions 1. Did you learn anything new from this activity? 2. Which question was most difficult to answer? Why? 3. Which question was easiest to answer? Why? There are so many ways to use candy to make your school counseling lessons more engaging! **Do you have any other ideas of how to incorporate candy? I’d love to hear them in the comments below!** ![These 5 school counseling activities using candy will help your students learn social emotional skills in a creative and engaging way!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Pinterest-Image-2.png) **Categories:** Counsel It Yourself (CIY), Quick Activities **Tags:** counseling activities --- ### [Self Regulation Counseling Activities](https://confidentcounselors.com/self-regulation-activities/) **Published:** October 31, 2018 **Author:** EduKate & Inspire, Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop and Speckled Moose Counseling and 2 more **Content:** Self regulation is a key skill for students (and adults). As school counselors, we have a great opportunity to target these skills in the classroom, small groups, and in individual counseling. Keep reading for ideas for self regulation counseling activities from 5 Confident Counselors. ### Build a Plan Most students who were referred to me for counseling struggled with self regulation. It doesn’t really matter if it’s anxious or angry feelings they are struggling to control. It all comes down to difficulty managing those feelings on their own, usually with negative consequences. In individual counseling, I work with a student to begin to build a plan we can use again and again while making adjustments. This is the process we go through: 1. Identify feelings and choose the problematic feeling (e.g., anger, anxiety). 2. Use an emotional thermometer to scale the intensity of the problematic feeling (e.g., Calm > Bothered > Annoyed > Angry > Furious). 3. Identify physical cues for each intensity of the emotion (e.g., red face, tight fists, grunting, kicking). 4. Identify the kinds of events that might cause each feeling (e.g., missing my turn, someone laughing at me, getting in trouble). 5. Identify the thoughts that often occur at the same time (e.g., It’s all her fault, my teacher hates me). 6. Match each feeling with a possible coping strategy (e.g., bothered > deep breaths and self talk, angry > 5 minute break, ask for help). I use this general process to build a plan that the student and I can continue to use and adjust over time. We typically use a 1 page chart and then have it as a reference tool, kind of like a personal anchor chart. When a situation occurs in class, we process through using the chart to see what the feeling was, the physical cues, the corresponding thoughts, and the reaction. Did the student use a strategy? Did it work? What do we need to change for the next time? ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Insta-Logo.png "Insta Logo") ##### ***Laura, Social Emotional Workshop*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SEW%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://socialemotionalworkshop.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/socialemotionalworkshop/)! ### Learning to Catch Feelings Have you ever had students that understand self-regulation strategies, can name them for you, will practice them with you … but that rarely do them in the classroom when they need to? Me too. I recently realized that one of the reasons it’s so difficult for them to use these strategies in the moment is because they don’t know how to “catch” their feelings at the right time to self-regulate. To help students with this, I teach them to recognize the physical sensations that come with different emotions. Gabi Garcia’s [Listening to My Body](https://amzn.to/2C7UVAD) is great for helping kiddos begin to pay attention to how their body feels. Then I work with students to identify the different [body feelings](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Body-Feelings-Activity-Exploring-How-the-Body-Feels-With-Different-Emotions-4054428) they have with each emotion and help them figure out how to use this self-awareness to self-regulate. For example, “I know I’m getting angry when my hands go into fists, my heart beats faster, and my face starts to get hot. When this happens, I know I need to use my liquid timer and take slower breaths.” ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Picture2.png "Sara Profile Pic") ##### ***Sara, The Responsive Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Responsive-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TRC%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](http://www.theresponsivecounselor.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/theresponsivecounselor/)! ### Body & Thought Clues First and foremost, I teach students to understand their own feelings using body recognition and thought tracking. Where do I feel this emotion in my body? What clues is my body giving me? What is this thought telling me about my feelings? When students are able to [recognize their own feelings in the moment](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Emotion-Recognition-Classroom-Guidance-Lessons-Identify-Express-Feelings-3895997?utm_source=CC%20Conversation%20SR&utm_campaign=SR%20Emotion%20Recognition%20Lessons%20), the chances that they’ll use an appropriate strategy are so much better! Secondly, I always want students to be aware of their own triggers. We use a [scoot or card activity](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Identifying-Triggers-Classroom-Guidance-Lessons-for-Recognizing-Triggers-3899622?utm_source=CC%20Conversation%20SR&utm_campaign=SR%20Triggers%20Lessons%20) to talk about different things at school or home that might trigger anger, fear, or frustration and then identify the ones that are true for the student. Afterward, we make a personalized plan for what to do in the moment when we notice a triggering situation and pick up on our emotion clues. Recognizing body sensations, thoughts, and triggers are the foundation for self regulation; the calming skills come next! ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/circlehead.png "circlehead") ##### ***Keri, Counselor Keri*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=CKeri%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://www.counselorkeri.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/counselorkeri/)! ### Name it to Tame it I’m a big believer in “name it to tame it” when it comes to emotional regulation. The basic – yet critical – counseling skill of reflection of feelings can be helpful for students to begin understanding and labeling their emotions. Reflections of feelings are useful in all interactions with students, whether it’s an individual counseling session, [classroom feelings lesson](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Introduction-to-Feelings-digital-lesson-for-Elementary-School-Counseling-3316725?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=October%20Conversations%20Feelings%20lesson), or brief interaction in the hallway. I love when I see students who used to express an emotion behaviorally, e.g. crumpling or ripping paper, be able to state “I’m frustrated!” Counseling games, like [Go Feelings](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Counseling-Card-Game-Feelings-Go-Fish-3595620?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=CC%20October%20conversations%20Go%20Feelings), are a simple and fun way to continue to expand a child’s emotional vocabulary. I also adapt well known games, like Jenga, Let’s Go Fishin’, and Don’t Break the Ice, into games about emotions. I can build on emotional vocabulary, and begin the steps of helping students identify where & how they experience feelings in their body. From there, we start working towards identifying effective calming strategies! ![Speckled Moose Counseling](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/SpeckledMoose.png "SpeckledMoose") ##### ***Gretchen, Speckled Moose Counseling*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Speckled-Moose-Counseling?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SMC%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](http://speckledmoosecounseling.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/speckled_moose_counseling/)! ### Match Problems & Reactions A key component to teaching students how to self-regulate is to provide education about appropriate reactions to problems. Once students have learned how to identify basic feelings, the next step is to begin exploring problems and reactions. Often, children have very large reactions to small problems. This may come from the child’s environment or the child’s inability to self-regulate. Many children need explicit instruction and practice with matching problems to appropriate reactions. I created a Problems vs. Reactions resource that includes sorting and scaling activities to help children learn about emotional regulation in a hands-on way. Check out my [Problems vs. Reactions Freebie](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Problems-vs-Reactions-Emotional-Regulation-FREE-SAMPLE-2657906?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Regulation%20Conversation%20Post) or the [full resource](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Problems-vs-Reactions-Emotional-Regulation-Pack-2653880?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Regulation%20Conversation%20Post%20Paid%20Product) to help your students explore appropriate reactions to different sizes of problems. ![EduKate & Inspire](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/New-Logo.png "New Logo") ##### ***Kate, EduKate & Inspire*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=EduKate%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/edukateinspire/)! **What activities do you use to teach self regulation in counseling?** **Share in the comments below.** ![self regulation activities for school counseling. How do you teach students to regulate their emotions and actions. Emotion regulation is a difficult skill and students benefit from explicit teaching to learning to identify feelings, learn coping strategies, and determine how to manage their feelings.](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Convo-Pin-Self-Reg-Activities.jpg "Convo Pin Self Reg Activities") **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Counseling **Tags:** CC tips, counseling activities, Counselor Keri, EduKate & Inspire, self regulation, Social Emotional Workshop, Speckled Moose Counseling, The Responsive Counselor --- ### [Strategies for When Teachers Over Refer Students](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-referrals/) **Published:** November 2, 2018 **Author:** Pawsitive School Counselor, Counselor Up and Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop **Content:** Let’s talk about one side of the referral problem – the flood, not the drought. Some teachers hold back on referrals until a student is lighting small fires in the hallway. Others? They’ll send a student your way if they so much as frown during circle time. Over-referrals are real, and they can clog up your schedule, create frustration, and sometimes mean students aren’t getting the help they actually need. But the goal isn’t just fewer referrals; it’s *better* ones. Here’s how you can work with teachers to figure out when a referral makes sense and how to build a system that helps everyone breathe a little easier. ## Work With Them I often think that teachers who over-refer are really just very excited about the services we have to offer. I usually **sit with them and ask them** what skills they are hoping to build in a student or a group of students. If a large portion of the class seems to need skill-building, I’ll offer to teach extra classes in addition to my normal schedule. For a small group of students, I work with them to problem solve using the [TIPS model.](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/solving-the-big-problems) I always want teachers, parents, and administration to feel supported by the school counseling program. At the same time, I really don’t have a magic wand. By requesting that teachers work with me, we build a better support network for students without me having to own the entire problem. [![Counselor Up In Post CChat](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/9.png "Counselor Up In Post CChat")](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-up/) ## Educate Them At the beginning of the year, I do a **presentation with my staff on counseling services**, explaining that a counselor offers tiered services, similar to academic intervention tiers. After completing a needs assessment, I try and follow up by visiting teacher PLC and plan meetings to discuss needs and services that will help us reach the most students. I share data with them through newsletters and meetings so they get a better understanding of my use of time. During **School Counselor Week**, I share with them information on the services and role of the counselor, for example, that we provide short-term counseling and not long-term therapy. Lastly, I **use punch cards** made from VistaPrint, for students and teachers to have a reminder of meeting dates, but also to give them a visual for how many times (approximately 5) that I meet with students. I think the punch cards help increase the knowledge that we provide short-term solution-focused sessions, ideally with an end date or transition to outside services. [![pawsitive school counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/CC-Author-In-Post.png "Laura F In Post")](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/pawsitive-school-counselor/) ## Be Clear I think getting accurate, needed referrals comes down to a teacher’s understanding of counseling services and my sticking to my systems. I **meet with each grade level** to assess their needs, develop a plan for students we know will need services immediately, go over how they can make a referral, and when they should. Also, **I have to be firm about what services are needed**. I do not need to see each student in small groups or individually. I can provide strategies for a teacher or push-in for classroom support. This helped ensure that services weren’t spread too thin and helped teachers understand the decision-making process. [![Laura Social Emotional Workshop](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/CC-Author-In-Post-1.png "Laura Social Emotional Workshop")](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/social-emotional-workshop/) #### **What do you do when the referrals are pouring in?** Share your tips for making it work below! **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Teachers **Tags:** CC tips, counseling referrals, Counselor Up, Paws-itive School Counselor, Social Emotional Workshop --- ### [5 Tips to Help You Prepare for A School Tragedy](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-crisis-preparation/) **Published:** November 7, 2018 **Author:** Pawsitive School Counselor **Content:** This year I started at a new school. It’s been a while since I moved schools, so I had forgotten what a whirlwind it is. You are navigating your way around new procedures and learning hundreds of names all while trying to remember where the bathroom is. Then a week into school we lost a student in a car wreck. When a crisis such as the death of a student happens life speeds up when you really want it to slow down. You are managing strong reactions from some students and staff while trying to be mindful of those students who are not as affected. Unfortunately, as counselors, we will all face a loss at some point. Whether it be the loss of a student, parent, or staff member, and preparation is key. Here are 5 tips on preparing for a school crisis and tragedy. ![Preparing for a school crisis/tragedy](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-10-07-at-2.50.00-PM-999x1024.png) ### Tip 1: Keep a copy of your school/county protocol at home. Sadly, I received the news on a Saturday night. My principal and I were on the phone all weekend planning and preparing for Monday. Most counties and schools have a protocol for communication and action steps to be taken after for a loss. We have a specific procedure protocol and it was sitting on my desk! Crisis policies and procedures are invaluable when preparing for the next steps because they provide a clear direction. However, a procedure is no good when it’s at work and you’re at home. Keep a copy at home or in your Google Drive for access when you aren’t at school. ### Tip 2: Prepare activities so they are ready to go at the beginning of the year. When a crisis happens, the last place you want to be is at the copy machine. Prepare a stash of activities ahead of time. I went through dozens of [Savvy School Counselor’s Grief Files](http://savvyschoolcounselor.com/4368-2/the-savvy-files-series/) and it was calming for students and me to have an activity that I could easily grab and go. Find time on an in-service day or in the summer to print, copy, and create activities you may use. ![Preparing for a school crisis/tragedy- activities to use as follow up.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/IMG_6346-1024x768.jpg) ### Tip 3: Make a travel bag. ![Preparing for a school crisis/tragedy- a go bag.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/IMG_6344-e1538938443313-225x300.jpg) Sometimes a tragedy will take place at your school and sometimes you may be called into a neighboring school for assistance. A travel bag is a wonderful resource if you are visiting classrooms or another school. Here’s what’s in my bag: - tissues for tears - fidget toys for relaxation - paper and crayons for art therapy - a feelings chart for check in’s - handouts of local resources - a book for bibliotherapy - copies of grief activities - mints – I once had a teacher tell me that you can’t cry and eat at the same time. I’ve found for my students that are sobbing and can’t seem to catch their breath a mint helps. ### Tip 4: Backup the bookmarks of your favorite grief resources. When I moved schools this year, I got a new computer. Sounds exciting, but what I had not counted on was losing all my files and internet bookmarks. When your computer crashes the last thing you want to hear is “did you back up?” I am normally the master of resources, but all of a sudden I couldn’t access them. [How To Geek has this article](https://www.howtogeek.com/136116/how-to-easily-back-up-and-migrate-your-browser-bookmarks/) on how to back up your browser bookmarks and you can read more about importing Chrome bookmarks [here](https://support.google.com/chrome/answer/96816?hl=en). ![Preparing for a school crisis/tragedy](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/IMG_6347-1024x768.jpg) #### Here are some of my favorite resources for you to bookmark: [Coalition to Support Grieving Students](https://grievingstudents.org/) [ASCA Help For Grieving Students](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/ASCAU/Grief-Loss-Specialist/GrievingStudents.pdf) [School Crisis Center](https://www.schoolcrisiscenter.org/resources/online-resources/) [The Dougy Center](https://www.dougy.org/) Check out [75 free counseling resources](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/04/freeschoolcounselingresources/) from Speckled Moose Counseling for more online resources. ### Tip 5: Plan for follow up. Our Crisis Team saw 26 students that Monday and I saw 67 that month. We saw students that had been close with the student we lost, some that were acquaintances, and several students that had a previous loss and this tragedy had brought it back to the surface. Make a plan for how you will follow up with the influx of referrals. Our Crisis Team provided me a helpful Follow Up Log that included the name of the student seen, who was the crisis team responder the student saw, a summary of concerns, and a spot for me to write notes about the follow-up. Additionally, we referred several families to local agencies and the [Katerpillar Kids Grief Camp](https://www.covenanthomecareandhospice.com/katerpillar-kids-camp-grief/), sent teachers and parents information on helping students with the grief via newsletters and e-mails, and created grief small groups. I have also provided individual counseling using [Mental Fills When Tragedy Strikes- Helping Children Cope with a Trauma packet.](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Trauma-Workbook-and-Healing-Counseling-Activities-3661860?utm_source=CC%20blog%20Crisis%20Post&utm_campaign=MF%20Tragedy%20Strikes) I also saw classes do a short activity and help them process their grief. First, we read [The Goodbye Book](https://amzn.to/2CwDhax) by Todd Parr, then brainstormed words that described the student we lost, and lastly made cards for the family. [![Preparing for a school crisis/tragedy- activities for follow up.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/IMG_6345-1024x768.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Trauma-Workbook-and-Healing-Counseling-Activities-3661860?utm_source=CC%20blog%20Crisis%20Post&utm_campaign=MF%20Tragedy%20Strikes) Keep in mind that follow-up doesn’t end immediately, so make a support plan for the rest of the year. **What resources or tips do you have for preparing for a tragedy? Share in the comments below.** **Categories:** Crisis Response **Tags:** school tragedy, trauma --- ### [Creating a Calm School Culture with Peace Week](https://confidentcounselors.com/creating-a-calm-school-culture-with-peace-week/) **Published:** November 12, 2018 **Author:** Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor **Content:** After reading [*Peace Week in Mrs. Fox’s Class*](https://amzn.to/2SwH7oP) to a group of second graders, it got me thinking and what would happen if I tried to implement a peace week of my own at my school. We’ve created a [culture of kindness](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/27/create-culture-of-kindness-at-school/) for our students, why not create a culture of calm? I built a week into our school schedule where creating peace is the main focus. Students are heavily encouraged to look for peaceful solutions to common stressful situations. They are challenged to think of ways they can help promote peace at school. Here are six ways I created a culture of calm at my school through the use of a school-wide Peace Week: ### Define Each Classroom’s Idea of Peace Week No two classrooms are exactly alike. What is peace week going to look like in each classroom? How are students going to make it their own? Have students describe and discuss what a peaceful week at school would look like and how they could make it happen. I use these [posters](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Peace-Week-Posters-A-Z-Peaceful-Character-Traits-3942295?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Bell%20Peace%20Week) to have students brainstorm the qualities and actions of a peaceful person. [![Peace Week](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/20181029_201245-300x289.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Peace-Week-Posters-A-Z-Peaceful-Character-Traits-3942295?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Bell%20Peace%20Week) Next, I ask students questions that get them thinking, such as: What is a peaceful person like? What qualities do they have? What type of responses would they have in stressful situations? Think about common situations that break the peace at your school. Roleplay various student responses and think about if those reactions help keep the peace or break the peace. ### Peace Week Contracts What rules/expectations do your students agree to follow and expect from each other? What happens when someone breaks the peace? Take time to have your students come up with the rules, expectations, norms, and criteria for how they expect each other to participate and contribute to peace week. Having a “peace week rulebook” of sorts that contains the agreed-upon expectations for peace week will help everyone understand the guidelines. Students can use this as a model for ways to promote peace, or as a tool to help guide students who need help understanding how to keep the peace. This “peace week rulebook” can easily be in the form of a contract-like document. This document outlines expectations for peace week behaviors that all students create together and sign to show their commitment. All teachers can display their peace week contracts outside of their classroom door as an instant reminder of peace week expectations each time students enter the classroom. ### Promote the Students’ Idea of Peace Week Have students take ownership of what they think Peace Week represents. Having the kids take control of the creation and promotion of Peace Week helps with student buy-in and increases student’s desire to participate. Have students create a schedule of daily dress up days or a student showcase on the school news explaining how a student kept the peace. Activities like these cause an amazing transformation in your school climate leading to a bit more peace in your hallways. ### Take Advantage of Teachable Moments As educators, we have to allow students the freedom to find peaceful solutions to their conflicts. Occasionally, we can help guide them along the way. When a conflict occurs, acknowledge something happened that broke the peace and help students brainstorm solutions to regaining the peace. Roleplay ways that students could better handle the situation in the future. Help model ways that students can come to a compromise, move past the conflict and return to a state of peace. ### Peace Week Trackers Creating peace week trackers can be very useful tools that help students visualize all the good they are doing in their school community. Trackers are also great for keeping the morale around peace week high. If students witness an interaction that helped keep the peace, they can track it on their classroom peace week trackers. Peace week trackers are a great way for students to continue the conversation about peaceful reactions and to give students a way to hold each other accountable. ### Peaceful Pauses Building time into your schedule for students to find inner peace can completely change the climate of the room. Taking the time to create a calm, peaceful learning environment can lead to many positive benefits. The main benefits are improved focus and increased academic endurance. ![Peace Week](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/20180804_210540-300x156.jpg) I like to watch YouTube videos or read stories that promote mindfulness. We also practice breathing strategies and visualization, reviewing various [self-control](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/13/self-control-strategies-classroom/) or calm down strategies and utilize the [peaceful poses](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Zen-Calm-Down-Corner-Yoga-Based-3965219?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Bell%20Peace%20Week) of yoga. A [zen corner](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Zen-Calm-Down-Corner-Yoga-Based-3965219?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Bell%20Peace%20Week) is perfect to help my students find peace within themselves that they can later share with the school. [![peace week](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/20180804_204738-169x300.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Zen-Calm-Down-Corner-Yoga-Based-3965219?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Bell%20Peace%20Week) Using the six tips above, you can create a shift in student’s mindsets. That shift will help your school adopt a school-wide expectation of peace. Teach students to look for ways to help keep the peace. In the process, help create a calm environment that allows all students to find peace within themselves. **How do you promote peace and create a culture of calm within your school?** Leave a comment below! ![Peace Week](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/1.png) **Categories:** Your Program **Tags:** school culture --- ### [Supporting Staff as a School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/supporting-staff-as-a-school-counselor/) **Published:** November 26, 2018 **Author:** Counselor Up **Content:** Has your school experienced loss, been effected by natural disasters, or had a particularly stressful year? If so, you know the feeling of seeing your staff overwhelmed by stress. What can you do to help? ### Take Care of Yourself First, put your own oxygen mask on before assisting others. Assess the stressor that is happening in your school community, and consider how that stressor is affecting you. Create space in your daily routine to take care of your own mental health. See some [Confident Counselor tips](https://confidentcounselors.com/?s=self+care) for self care if you need some new ideas. ### Find A Support System Think about who in your building has the capacity to be support for others right now. It may be your administrator, a teacher, or even the community. Ask these people to join you in helping the climate of the school. Get together over coffee or on a walk around campus after school to chat about what might help your school. ### Circle of Control Think about the causes of the stress happening in the building. What is within your circle of control and what is outside of your control? I once worked in a building where the climate was really struggling due to actions by the administrators. I didn’t have control over the actions of others but I was able to work with a group of colleagues to increase the positive interactions between staff. We scheduled potlucks on teacher workdays, started giving [staff shout outs](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/staff-shout-outs) at staff meetings and started a random act of kindness chain. ### Social Emotional Learning for Staff You teach social emotional learning for students throughout your day, do you think your staff could benefit from the same learning? I recently listened to an interview by Elena Aguilar who wrote the book [Onward: Cultivating Emotional Resilience in Educators](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/staff-shout-outs). In her book, she goes through activities for each month that can help staff to building their own resilience and prevent burnout. I can’t wait to dive in. If that’s more than you can take on, consider sharing what you are teaching students to increase continuity all the while sharing the skill. ### Bring in Help If your school has experienced trauma or loss, bring in help! It’s not all on you. There may be nonprofit agencies that can send support or you can ask other counselors in your district to come in and help. It can’t be only on you! If it’s been a tough year for you, we’re sending all our love and healing to you and your staff. What are you tips for supporting your staff in hard times? ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Supporting-Pin-683x1024.png) **Categories:** Collaboration **Tags:** collaboration --- ### [How Do You Practice Gratitude Within Your School Counseling Role?](https://confidentcounselors.com/practicing-gratitude/) **Published:** November 25, 2018 **Author:** Speckled Moose Counseling and Counselor Up **Content:** Do you practice gratitude as a school counselor? Purposefully taking time to express thanks and appreciation for others as well as yourself can have a big impact. Check out what Gretchen and Rebecca do to practice gratitude. ## Recognize Others I like to write notes to staff members and parents when they have done something to support the school counseling program or one of my students. It feels good to be noticed. I’m also a big fan of [Staff Shout Outs](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/staff-shout-outs) at meetings. Appreciating each other keeps us connected and lifts morale when work gets hard. I also like to thank students for the great things they do. We often only notice students when they are doing the wrong thing or simply complying. When we notice the extra, kind things they do, it makes everyone feel more positive. The more I appreciate and thank others, the more gratitude I feel towards my role as a school counselor. Now that I work in central office, I [write notes to the school counselors](https://www.instagram.com/p/BiXfLg8nbqc/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link) I work with. It makes my day when I see my notes tucked in their planners or up in their offices. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Picture1.png "Counselor Up") ##### ***Rebecca, Counselor Up*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Up?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=CUp%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://www.counselorup.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/counselorupblog/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/counselorup/)! ## Whole School Gratitude As a [Positivity Project](https://posproject.org) partner school, gratitude is one of twenty-four character strengths that is explicitly taught to students. I emphasize the strengths in my discussions and lessons with students. It’s amazing how frequently gratitude can be slipped into a counseling group or classroom lesson. One of my favorite gratitude lessons ever was when I partnered with an intermediate teacher and students made gratitude trees by collaging scrapbook paper. Students wrote on the trees various things that they felt grateful for, and it was incredible to see what students shared. Additionally, I like to write [positive notes to students](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Positive-Notes-to-Students-2228804?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Gratitude%20Convo%20112018#) to show students that I “caught” them doing something positive, and it’s a chance to express my gratitude for them. It brightens their day to receive these little notes, and it helps me keep myself grounded in gratitude as I’m always looking for positives! ![Speckled Moose Counseling](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/SpeckledMoose.png "SpeckledMoose") ##### ***Gretchen, Speckled Moose Counseling*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Speckled-Moose-Counseling?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SMC%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](http://speckledmoosecounseling.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/speckled_moose_counseling/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/SpeckledMooseCounseling/)! **How do you practice gratitude as a school counselor?** **Check out tips for** [**how to repurpose a gratitude tree**](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/17/5-ways-to-repurpose-your-gratitude-tree/)**.** ![How do you practice gratitude as a school counselor? It can help when you are experiencing career stress. Check out these tips!](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/CC-Pin-Convo-Posts-102F18-122F18.png "CC Pin Convo Posts 1018-1218") **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Counselor Role **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Up, gratitude, self care, Speckled Moose Counseling --- ### [7 Video Clips to Hook Students into a Teasing Lesson](https://confidentcounselors.com/video-clips-teasing/) **Published:** November 28, 2018 **Author:** The Counseling Teacher Brandy **Content:** ![Use video clips to introduce a lesson on teasing](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Empower-Students-to-Report-Bullying-2-1024x536.png) Teasing between peers can be an ongoing battle causing chaos in the classroom. It’s important to educate students on the difference between playful and mean teasing. Improving student communication can greatly improve classroom culture. To assure student engagement, try using a video clip to introduce this important topic. Using a hook like a video is one of my favorite ways to start a new lesson. A three to five minute video is the perfect length to get their attention. Check out this list of seven supplemental video clips that you can use to hook your students into a lesson on teasing. # 1) Animated Clip This first 3 minute video is my absolute favorite way to start off a lesson on teasing. It’s an animated short film without any words, but the message is timeless. It’s light-hearted and sets the tone for a comfortable conversation about teasing. All ages will like this one. # 2) Homemade Clip This 3 and a half minute video shows the difference between bullying and teasing. It isn’t professionally made, but authentic and real. This one will appeal to upper elementary and middle school students. # 3) Rude, Mean, or Bullying This 4 minute video explores the differences in being rude, mean, and bullying. There is no sound, but it has great information. You could create several lessons around this one video. I like to stop the video several times and have a discussion with students about the words on the screen. This lesson will work best for upper elementary and middle school students. # 4) Talk Show Clip This 3 minute clip comes from a talk show where they discuss the difference in fun and mean teasing. It focuses on the intention behind the teasing. This will work best with upper elementary and middle school students. It could also be used as a link to send home for parents if it doesn’t fit with your lesson. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wuEDX\_mEZqw # 5) Josh Speaks Clip In this 5 minute video, Josh talks about how to react to teasing when the teaser is a friend. This video works best with 5th-12th grade. # 6) Reacting to Teasing This 4 minute video shows students how to react to teasing to diffuse the situation. This video would work best with upper elementary, middle and high school students. # 7) BrainPOP Clip This last 4 minute video is from BrainPop. It is an animated clip about online teasing and cyberbullying. Tim and Moby videos are filled with a lot of useful information packed into just a few minutes. It will work for upper elementary and middle school students. If you haven’t used [Brainpop](http://brainpop.com) before, it has several great videos for social-emotional learning. [BrainPOP Junior](https://jr.brainpop.com) is also available for the elementary level. There is a cost to subscribe, but many schools will get a site-wide subscription if you ask your administrators. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkVjt-AaNY4 Sometimes teasing actually crosses the line into bullying. Check out these [tips to empower students to report bullying](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/01/empower-students-to-report-bullying/). Once you have hooked your students into the lesson with a video and had a discussion on the facts, you may want to try an engaging craft to finish out your lesson. [Flipbooks](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Teasing-Flipbook-3884811) are a fun way to summarize the lesson and reinforce the message. They can also take it home and continue the conversation with their parents. ![Is it mean or playful teasing?](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-11-at-12.08.21-PM-300x300.png)![Mean or Playful Teasing](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-11-at-12.23.06-PM-300x300.png) **What tips do you have for creating engaging lessons about teasing?** **Leave a comment and let us know.** ![Use these 7 quick video clips to hook students into a lesson on mean vs playful teasing. ](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Empower-Students-to-Report-Bullying-3-683x1024.png) **Categories:** Class Lessons **Tags:** classroom lessons, teasing, technology --- ### [Favorite Career Development Resources](https://confidentcounselors.com/career-development-resources/) **Published:** November 30, 2018 **Author:** Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor and Counselor Keri **Content:** How do you introduce and explore careers with students? Do you have some favorite career development resources you use every year? Counselor Keri and Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor share their go to resources below. Keep reading! ## Exploring Careers I like to teach [career as a self-exploration unit](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/career-exploration-unit-with-interactive-notebook-for-career-education) so that students can first identify their own interests, skills, and values and then see how these things relate to the world of work. I do a lot of hands-on activities relating to career clusters so that students can see what it might be like to be in a career in those clusters. For example, we play a medical charades game to practice “diagnosing” like someone in the health sciences cluster would do. We do STEM challenges relating to the technical sciences cluster. It’s a fun way to expose students to a variety of careers and help them see that their own interests, skills, and values can be found in a future career for personal fulfillment. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/circlehead.png "circlehead") ##### ***Keri, Counselor Keri*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=CKeri%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://www.counselorkeri.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/counselorkeri/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/counselorkeri/)! ## Career of the Week Countdown I think it is important to show students that their future career choices are endless, as long as they are willing to work hard to achieve their goals. One of my favorite ways to do this is with a [career of the week countdown](https://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/2017/08/career-countdown-2016.html). The countdown not only exposes kids to various career options, but it gets them thinking and talking about various education levels needed to be qualified for different careers. I have a bulletin board that features the career of the week as well as a weekly appearance and announcement on the school news. Towards the end of the school year, my classroom guidance lessons allow students to research, explore, and think about careers that may be a good fit for them. ![Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.jpg "Mrs Bell The Crafty Counselor") ##### ***Mrs. Bell the Crafty Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Crafty%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/mrsbellthecraftycounselor/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/thecraftycounselor614/)! **What are your favorite career development resources?** **Check out this post for [Middle School Ideas](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/17/college-career-activities/).** ![What are your favorite career development resources to help students explore future careers? How do you approach career education? Consider creating a career countdown or a self exploration unit to get students engaged and aware.](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/5-1.png "Career CC") **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Career Development **Tags:** career development, CC tips, Counselor Keri, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor --- ### [Working With Families After Calling Child Services](https://confidentcounselors.com/after-calling-child-services/) **Published:** December 7, 2018 **Author:** The Counseling Teacher Brandy and School Counselor Stephanie **Content:** At some point, you will have to call Child Services on a family due to abuse or neglect. This is something that all of us dread. It is very likely that the family will be upset with the school for reporting. Make sure you are prepared to handle this interaction and have the support of your administration. Keep reading to see how two Confident Counselors handle calling Child Services. ## Be Prepared This is a difficult position to be in. First of all, social services will not release the name of the person that calls in an abuse/neglect report. Therefore, you do not have to admit that you called. However, sometimes, the student will give information to the parents that makes them conclude that you reported the family. I usually give a general answer when confronted and repeat myself as much as needed. It helps to practice what you would say, just in case. I will usually say that educators and all adults are mandated reporters and that we are required by law to report anything that we are told that could be abuse. I will explain to them that the department of human services has many resources to help families and that we often work together with them to help our students. It’s definitely one of the most uncomfortable parts of being a school counselor, but we have to have those courageous conversations at times. Whenever possible, ask an administrator to sit in on all meetings with the family after a report has been made if you feel uncomfortable. [![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/The-Counseling-Teacher.png "The Counseling Teacher")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TCTB%20Author%20Box) ##### ***Brandy, The Counseling Teacher*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TCTB%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://thecounselingteacher.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thecounselingteacherbrandy/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/thecounselingteacher/)! ## Handoff to CPS I love this topic! It is such an important one! As a school counselor at a school where [many students have experienced trauma](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Working-with-Students-of-Trauma-Presentation-for-Staff-3711059), I make weekly (at least) reports to Child Protective Services (CPS). We also have a full time School Resource Police Officer (SRO), so I often work on these reports in tandem with the SRO. Our former SRO gave me the best tip ever on dealing with parents who confront me for making a report- he told me that by law I CAN’T speak about any CPS reports (made by me or any other staff member) because they are considered open investigations by law enforcement! When I tell parents this, it ends the conversation immediately. Thanks, Deputy Robles! ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/School-Counselor-Stephanie.png "School Counselor Stephanie") ##### ***Stephanie, School Counselor Stephanie*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counselor-Stephanie?utm_source=CC%20blog&utm_campaign=SCS%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/schoolcounselorstephanie/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/schoolcounselorstephanie/)! **How do you handle this difficult part of our job?** ![Be prepared when calling child services. As a school counselor you may have to report abuse or neglect. The family may be angry or confused. Be prepared for this conversation with these simple tips.](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/7-1.png "Be prepared when calling child services. As a school counselor you may have to report abuse or neglect. The family may be angry or confused. Be prepared for this conversation with these simple tips.") **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Parents **Tags:** CC tips, mandated reporting, School Counselor Stephanie, The Counseling Teacher Brandy --- ### [Time Savers for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/time-savers-for-school-counselors/) **Published:** December 12, 2018 **Author:** Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop, School Counselor Stephanie and Counselor Chelsey **Content:** School counselors are pulled in lots of different directions. There is always a crisis on a Friday afternoon. How do you maximize your time with students and minimize time spent on less necessary tasks? Check out ways to create routines, prepare ahead of time, and stick to your schedule. ## Create Routines and Batch Tasks My biggest time vacuum if I’m not purposeful is organizing and planning for small groups and individual counseling. To get back some of this time, I focus on creating simple routines and batching tasks that I do every time. At the beginning of the year, I photocopy permission slips for small groups and color code them by grade level. This helps since I’m not printing off slips each time I need to start a group, and when slips are returned it’s easy to sort them. Almost all of my groups and individual counseling sessions have the same format for the first session. I typically introduce the topic, build rapport, and set some loose goals. I assemble the first session materials for a couple months at a time. Check this post for [3 parts of a purposeful first counseling session](https://socialemotionalworkshop.com/2017/08/first-counseling-session-activities/). Students who see me for small groups or individual also have the exact same routine for coming to my office depending on their grade level. Younger students I get from their classrooms or the cafeteria. Older students receive a pass and are prompted by teachers to go. It’s amazing how much time you save by not searching for students. I regularly reflect on how I can create routines or get a lot of small tasks out of the way at once. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Insta-Logo.png "Insta Logo") ##### ***Laura, Social Emotional Workshop*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SEW%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://socialemotionalworkshop.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/socialemotionalworkshop/)! ## Be Prepared One of my favorite time saving tips, which may seem counterintuitive is to be as prepared as possible ahead of time. For me, Friday has always been a day that I have tried to leave as free as possible. I try not to schedule a ton of group or classroom lessons, and leave that time to plan for the next week. I plan as much as possible. I make all of the copies I will need, I make all of the lesson plans I need to make, etc. I have found that the more I can have prepared ahead of time, especially if I can do it all at once, the less I have to scramble last minute! If I can do this, then I have more time opened up for crises and last minute needs. ![CounselorChelsey](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/CounselorChesleyRound.png "CounselorChesleyRound") ##### ***Chelsey, CounselorChelsey*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselorchelsey?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Chelsey%20Author%20Box) for counseling resources. Let’s connect on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/CounselorChelsey/)! ## Stick to Your Schedule I think having a schedule and sticking to it is a HUGE time saver. We don’t realize how much time and effort it takes to plan out our day or week, and then to have to do it on-the-fly is incredibly distracting and takes even longer. For this reason, I have a daily and weekly schedule that I only let crises interrupt. So, if a person isn’t having a “3 hurts”emergency (if they’re going to physically hurt themself, physically hurt another, or someone is physically hurting them), I keep to my schedule. I plan daily time to see students, talk with parents, work on schedules, consult with staff, teach lessons, run groups, etc. It saves me so much time to be able to quickly look at my pre-planned schedule throughout the day to see what I am doing next, rather than having to stop, think about my pending tasks, and then plan out my next move. Also, if I do have to stop and [handle a crisis](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Handling-Student-Crisis-in-Schools-3711573) (which happens frequently at my school), I can quickly glance at the time and then my schedule to know what I should be doing as soon as the crisis ends. [Here is a link to my scheduling templates and yearly calendars](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Yearly-Counseling-Curriculum-Weekly-Schedule-Other-Organizational-Templates-3498129), in case you need to make some of your own. Happy scheduling! ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/School-Counselor-Stephanie.png "School Counselor Stephanie") ##### ***Stephanie, School Counselor Stephanie*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counselor-Stephanie?utm_source=CC%20blog&utm_campaign=SCS%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/schoolcounselorstephanie/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/schoolcounselorstephanie/)! **What time saving tips do you have to make the school counselor job a bit easier? Share in the comments.** **Check out [10 Tips for School Counselor Office Organization](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/15/school-counseling-office-organization/).** ![Save time as a school counselor by standardizing repeated tasks, batching, and maintaining your schedule. Check out these time savers for school counselors.](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/8-1.png) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Organization, Uncategorized **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Chelsey, School Counselor Stephanie, Social Emotional Workshop, time-savers --- ### [What Self Care Activity Are You Doing Over Winter Break?](https://confidentcounselors.com/self-care-activity/) **Published:** December 10, 2018 **Author:** Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor and The Counseling Teacher Brandy **Content:** Winter break is a great time to recharge and do some purposeful self-care. Taking this time can help you shift your mindset for the second half of the year. Most of use have been putting off this necessary self-care and running on fumes. Read what Ashley and Brandy do, and share your favorites in the comments or on social media. ## Slow Down I love Winter Break because I have time to catch up on life and can slow down a bit. I can focus on taking care of myself and my family. My favorite self-care activities are watching Christmas movies, going for walks in the park with my son and taking advantage of living in Florida with naps on the beach. I catch up on any projects I want to complete and take the time to create my family’s yearly photo album. I like to enjoy the calm; I try to take advantage of each moment, without feeling the need to rush to the next event. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mrs-Bell-Transparent.png "Mrs Bell Transparent") ##### ***Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Crafty%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/mrsbellthecraftycounselor/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/thecraftycounselor614/)! ## Family, Self, and School Winter break is a time to recover from the first semester and recharge for the last half of the year. Put school stuff away and focus on reconnecting with the people you call your family. I enjoy finding old family recipes, asking older family members about traditions that I may not know about, turning on holiday music, and decorating the house for winter visitors. It’s also good to schedule alone time. My favorite ways to do this are to get a full body massage and have a spa day. It’s the little things that will give you the mental and physical boost to end the year with a bang. When you return to school or just before you leave, create a self care culture for your staff. Find coupons for health spas and services that your teachers would enjoy. Post signs in the lounge and encourage time for self. Check out these free [signs for the lounge](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Staff-Morale-Boosters-Self-Care-Signs-3938042). ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/The-Counseling-Teacher.png "The Counseling Teacher") ##### ***Brandy, The Counseling Teacher*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TCTB%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://thecounselingteacher.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thecounselingteacherbrandy/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/thecounselingteacher/)! **What are you doing this winter break for self-care?** **Check out** [**these tips**](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/11/27/fill-cup-self-care-real-life/) **from Rebecca, Counselor Up.** ![What do you do during school breaks to recharge? Self-care is crucial for school counselors. Check out these simple tips from The Counseling Teacher and Counselor Chelsey.](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/9.png) **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Self Care **Tags:** Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, self care, The Counseling Teacher Brandy --- ### [7 Tips For School Counseling With ELL Students](https://confidentcounselors.com/7-tips-for-school-counseling-with-ell-students/) **Published:** January 28, 2019 **Author:** The Responsive Counselor **Content:** While the ELL population is growing by leaps and bounds within US public schools, most school counselors don’t receive any sort of specialized training in how to work with these students or their families. School counseling with ELL students isn’t hugely different or difficult but there are certainly some tips, tricks, and best practices that I’ve discovered. I work in a preK to fourth-grade elementary school in the southeast. Around 40% of my students are English Language Learners and even more come from non-English language backgrounds. Spanish and Arabic are the two main languages spoken by my ELL families. The number of Swahili-speaking families (as well as other African languages) is growing, and I always have some East Asian students too. Most of my ELL students are second generation Americans though I have many that moved to the US as toddlers. I had *zero* training, information, or experience working with ELL students or families before my first school counseling position. I’ve learned so much from them and despite the many challenges (including *my* lack of other language skills!), I’ve really enjoyed it. Here are some of the strategies I’ve learned to help me be more effective in this role. ### Less Metaphors, More Concrete Ideas and Examples Counseling stories and techniques are full of beautiful metaphors but unfortunately, those are very tricky for people who aren’t yet proficient in the language of the metaphor. This is important when selecting books to use in class lessons or counseling sessions. For example, when I [teach about empathy](http://theresponsivecounselor.com/2018/05/stand-in-my-shoes-lesson-plan-redux.html) and use the book “Stand in My Shoes”, I have to be very explicit about what the metaphor means. We go through specific examples of pretending to “stand” in a student’s shoes and explaining that I wouldn’t actually walk in their shoes. I would think about what it’s like to be 7, to speak Spanish at home, to have a little sister, etc. Much of the time, I skip metaphors altogether. [![teaching empathy to ELL students](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/ACS_0204-300x225.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/7-tips-for-school-counseling-with-ell-students/acs_0204/) [![teaching empathy to ELL students](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/ACS_0153-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/7-tips-for-school-counseling-with-ell-students/acs_0153/) ### Representation Matters My students need to know that I *see* them and that I value what they bring to our school. When I look through the books I plan to use throughout the year, I look at the characters. Do they match my students in terms of race and ethnicity or are they all white? When I’m writing scenarios for different activities, I make sure to include common/popular Egyptian and Central American names, alongside common names representing the other groups at my school. ### Prioritize Your Relationships with Your Translator(s) I don’t speak any other languages and have had to rely heavily on my schools’ part-time translators. They do more than just translate my letters and interpret during meetings. They form connections with the families and become community liaisons. My translators know me and trust me which means they share important information with me about the families. It also means they tell the families *they* can trust me which is incredibly meaningful and powerful. One thing I didn’t know before working with a translator was that I should face the family and speak directly to them — *not* the translator. The first time or two of doing this feels a bit awkward but it’s more polite to be direct. Also, there is so much we convey in tone and body language! ### Be Ready to Talk About Immigration and Deportation Many of my students and their parents are in fear of a parent being deported. This means anxiety over smaller things like a parent getting pulled over while speeding as well. Deportation has a loss like death paired with some of the shame of prison — and it comes with the financial ramifications of both. It’s also important to be thoughtful about your language; *undocumented* or *without papers* are far more appropriate and compassionate than *illegal*. I also recommend having resources on hand to share with parents about legal representation, health care for the uninsured, etc. ### Visuals, Visuals, Visuals! I try to incorporate visuals into everything I do. I don’t just talk about the conflict escalator, I show them a picture of an escalator. I don’t just read prompts aloud, I project them and include clipart graphics too. Sometimes visuals can also come in the form of picture book read alouds, or with role plays. I often use animated PowerPoints when talking about big concepts like [T.H.I.N.K. before you speak](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/THINK-Before-You-Speak-Lesson-Plan-3360794?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=ELLThink) so that there are pictures and words going along with everything I’m saying. Another example is from when I teach I-messages to classes with higher numbers of ELL students in them; I include visuals to go along with each piece when they put together [I-message puzzles](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Talk-it-Out-I-Message-Puzzles-Activity-3429494?utm_source=CC&utm_campaign=ELLTIO). [![i-message puzzles](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/IMG_5015-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/7-tips-for-school-counseling-with-ell-students/img_5015/) [![i-message puzzles](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/IMG_5014-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/7-tips-for-school-counseling-with-ell-students/img_5014/) ### The MTSS Academic Process is a Little Sticky Part of determining whether a student needs a tiered academic intervention, or whether they could possibly have a disability, involves ruling out English language proficiency (or lack thereof) as the problem. This is tough stuff, especially with elementary aged kiddos who don’t read or write in their first language and can’t be tested that way. As school counselors, we often play a role in Child Find/MTSS. Everyone on the team may not have received training in identifying disabilities in ELL students — sometimes *we* have to talk through some of the best practices together. A couple articles I found helpful on this are [here](http://www.ldonline.org/spearswerling/Learning_Disabilities_in_English_Language_Learners) and [here](http://rtinetwork.org/getstarted/sld-identification-toolkit/ld-identification-toolkit-considerations-for-ell). ### Let the Kids Talk! My classroom lessons are perhaps noisier than in schools without as many ELL students. There are often kiddos translating for each other (sometimes literally as I’m teaching). There are asking many more questions. And I encourage as much student interaction as possible. In part because it’s evidence-based to do so, and in part because I want to give my students to develop their language skills whenever possible. Here’s a whole post all about awesome [cooperative learning activities to do in school counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/22/cooperative-learning-activities-in-school-counseling/)! Just like every child is different, ELL students and families are all very different too. Some schools have mostly newcomer students, some serve largely refugee populations, and some provide instruction in two languages! What type of an ELL population do you have? What questions do you have about serving ELL students through your school counseling program? I’d love to chat more about it with you! *Other Confident Counselor posts that you might be excited to read: [Multicultural Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/02/05/multicultural-counseling/) and [Student Trauma and School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/06/student-trauma-and-school-counselors/).* ![school counseling with ELL students](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/ELL-Pinterest-e1548696460871.jpg) **Categories:** Your Program **Tags:** ELL --- ### [10 Quick and Easy Group Counseling Activities](https://confidentcounselors.com/10-quick-and-easy-group-counseling-activities/) **Published:** January 30, 2019 **Author:** Speckled Moose Counseling **Content:** Do you ever find yourself in need of quick and **easy group counseling activities**? *Of course, you do.* It’s easy to picture: it’s Monday morning and you have a list of group counseling activities and plans to print, but there’s a long line at the copier. A student makes a disclosure and Child Protective Services is heading your way. A grandparent shows up at school and wants to share concerns about a student with you. Another student is crying because he misses his mom. The thought of pushing back groups another week when students depend on these consistent meetings is anxiety provoking, but your resources aren’t ready. Or maybe you have time to plan, but no funding to purchase curricula or group counseling activities. Without beautiful group counseling plans and resources, what will you do? Behold, 10 quick and easy group counseling activities that students will love. ### Easy Group Counseling Activity #1: Group Counseling Basketball Now, I’m not going to lie to you. This is a crowd pleaser. Be warned that students will want to play this all the time! I have a [Nerf hoop](https://amzn.to/2sPtrK9) in my office, but you can use a trash can, recycle bin, storage basket… you get the idea. Students don’t mind because it’s so fun! Students take turns shooting a basket. If they make it, they can celebrate with a [dance or an action](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Movement-break-action-task-cards-2228286?utm_source=Confident%20Counselors&utm_campaign=CC%2010%20quick%20group%20activities%20post) chosen by you. If they miss, they answer a question related to group content. Questions can be as simple or as complicated as you want. For example: - **Changing Families Group**: What’s one thing that’s special about your family? - **Friendship Group**: What’s one problem 5th graders might have in friendships? - **Grief Group**: What is one thing you’d say to someone whose family member died? As you can see, this activity is easily adaptable to any and all groups! ### Easy Group Counseling Activity #2: Stand Up, Sit Down Activity Ok, so this name leaves a lot to be desired, but it’s a super quick and easy group counseling activity and kids enjoy it. **Here’s how it works**: make a statement about anything *(really, anything)*. If that statement is true for a student, she stands up. Students remain seated if it’s not true for them. If the statement is true for everyone, *so everyone is standing up*, they can have a 5-second dance party. It’s amazing how much students will dance, even without music playing! I encourage students to keep a close watch for similarities between group members. This activity is fantastic to build group rapport, to assess student interests or family dynamics. Think about things you want to know about the group, and make a statement about it. Easy! ### Easy Group Counseling Activity #3: Feelings Hot Potato Game This is another quick and easy group activity that is effective and brings a lot of giggles! I use a [musical hot potato](https://amzn.to/2B7eh7y), but again, you could use anything that you have handy in your office as the item to pass. In a pinch, I’ve used stress balls & music from my laptop. Played like traditional hot potato games, students pass the potato around the group until the music stops. Whoever is holding the potato at that point has to share. Depending on your group topic, perhaps they share a feeling word, coping skill, family memory, etc. [![Group counseling planning is a breeze with these 10 quick & easy group counseling activities. Students will love these easy to prep and engaging activities.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Feelings-Posters.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Feelings-Posters-Game-Changing-FamiliesSocial-Skills-3725625?utm_source=Confident%20Counselors&utm_campaign=CC%2010%20quick%20and%20easy%20activities%20post) ### Easy Group Counseling Activity #4: Feelings Walk I love to incorporate simple movement into my group activities, and this is an easy way to do it. This activity is similar to musical chairs but with a twist. I arrange the chairs in a circle *(full disclosure: I usually just leave them as they are around my group table & have the kids push them out a little bit to make space to walk)*, and I tape [feeling posters](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Feelings-Posters-Game-Changing-FamiliesSocial-Skills-3725625?utm_source=Confident%20Counselors&utm_campaign=CC%2010%20quick%20and%20easy%20activities%20post) or words onto each chair. If you don’t have feelings posters readily accessible, sticky notes will do the job. Students walk around the circle while music plays (again, internet-based music to the rescue), and when it stops, they sit in the closest chair. I like to “randomly” call on students to share something related to the feeling word on the chair. Examples might include: sharing a time they experienced that feeling, where they experienced the feeling in their body, a coping skill they could use when experiencing that feeling, etc. You get the idea. You could also adapt this activity by making the sticky note or poster reflect different group topics. ### Easy Group Counseling Activity #5: Feelings Faces If you can’t tell, I love doing group activities related to feelings identification. Similar to the Feelings Walk, I use [feelings posters](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Feelings-Posters-Game-Changing-FamiliesSocial-Skills-3725625?utm_source=Confident%20Counselors&utm_campaign=CC%2010%20quick%20and%20easy%20activities%20post) & tape them around my room. Again, if you don’t have feelings posters, you can write feeling words or draw quick emotions faces. I spread them out so that the students can move. Instruct the students that they will hear a scenario, and their first job is to sit and think about how they might feel in that scenario. When they hear the magic words of “Q and Q,” for quickly and quietly, they will get up and quickly and quietly move to that feeling. *I emphasize that I am not saying “R and L” for running and loudly.* Students take turns sharing and explaining more about why they think they’d have that feeling for the scenario. Scenarios can be simple, vague, and be related to different group content. Regardless of the topic, we process how even though everyone had the same “experience” (scenario), people had different feelings about it and that’s ok. Scenario examples could include: - **Friendship or Social Skills Group**: “You found out you’re not invited to a friend’s birthday party.” (This one always brings up good dialogue!) - **Changing Families Group**: “You overhear your mom arguing with someone on the phone.” - **Self-Esteem Group**: “Your classmate says that your idea is dumb.” Find more scenarios already written for you [here](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Feelings-Posters-Game-Changing-FamiliesSocial-Skills-3725625?utm_source=Confident%20Counselors&utm_campaign=CC%2010%20quick%20and%20easy%20activities%20post). [![Group counseling planning is a breeze with these 10 quick & easy group counseling activities. Students will love these easy to prep and engaging activities.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Scenario-cards-for-Feeling-Faces.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Feelings-Posters-Game-Changing-FamiliesSocial-Skills-3725625?utm_source=Confident%20Counselors&utm_campaign=CC%2010%20quick%20and%20easy%20activities%20post) ### Easy Group Counseling Activity #6: Feelings Charades Play is good for the soul, and this easy group activity never disappoints. I have [feelings charades cards](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Counseling-Game-Feelings-Charades-2397618?utm_source=Confident%20Counselors&utm_campaign=CC%2010%20quick%20and%20easy%20activities%20post%20Charades) on hand for students to choose, or they can be creative and come up with their own ideas. It’s a fun way to observe students act out different emotions. A lot can be learned by how they express emotions with different body movements and gestures, or other characterizations. Students take turns pretending, while the other students guess what they are acting out. Change this activity to meet other group topics by requesting that students act out something about families or a friendship problem. You can take it a step further by processing the charade or problem after each turn and having the group generate solutions. [![Group counseling planning is a breeze with these 10 quick & easy group counseling activities. Students will love these easy to prep and engaging activities.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Feelings-Charades.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Counseling-Game-Feelings-Charades-2397618?utm_source=Confident%20Counselors&utm_campaign=CC%2010%20quick%20and%20easy%20activities%20post%20Charades) ### Easy Group Counseling Activity #7: Beach Ball Activity This easy group activity is also a money saver. Here’s a tip: stock up on dollar beach balls when you see them in the summer and store them away for this activity. You’ll see expensive thumb balls for different topics in counseling resources catalogs, but who wants to pay for those? Write questions or statements on the beach ball related to the group topic, and pass it around to group members. When students catch the ball, whatever activity or question the right thumb touches is the one they do. Simple! If you have storage issues and don’t want to have multiple beach balls, you could write numbers on the beach ball, or simply use the colors of the ball. You can jot down a list of numbered or color-coded statements. ### Easy Group Counseling Activity #8: Rare Birds This group counseling activity is a huge time saver because the only prep it requires is making sure you have paper and writing utensils in your office. Provide each student with paper and a writing utensil, and ask them to write down things or qualities that make them special or unique. Mix up all of the papers, and read the statements aloud. As a group, try and guess who that statement describes. Play up the mystery for extra laughs, e.g. “Hmmm…. could this be Gretchen?! I’m not sure if she can wiggle her ears…but maybe…” (complete with exaggerated facial expressions and tone of voice). It’s another easy group counseling activity that allows for self-reflection, building group rapport, and assessment. This is perfect for self-esteem or friendship groups, but you can also tweak it to other group topics. For example: - **Changing Families Group**: students can write things unique about their families. - **New Student Group**: students can write about favorite memories or events from their previous school. ### Easy Group Counseling Activity #9: Deserted Island You can’t get much easier with this group counseling activity! It’s a great assessment activity as it provides insight into student values, family dynamics, etc. You might have a stockpile of paper plates in your craft bin, or you could have students cut paper circles. If you’re really pressed for time and keeping it simple, the kids can draw a circle. Set the scene. The students have won a trip to an island! It’s so exciting! But wait, for their trip, they can only bring \_\_\_\_\_ (one family member, 3 items, etc. — you decide). Students draw in who or what they’re bringing and then share their islands with the group. The responses are always fascinating! ### Easy Group Counseling Activity #10: Graffiti Wall You could do this quick group activity a couple of ways. You could tape up large pieces of paper to the wall (there’s something really appealing about writing on the wall), or you could use an interactive board if you are lucky enough to have one in your office. Write a statement (or multiple statements) on the sheets of paper and have the students move around & write their answers. You could generate questions or answers as a group and then process the responses. Examples might include: *“One thing that makes me angry is \_\_\_\_\_\_.”* *“What I can do to solve this problem is \_\_\_\_\_\_.”* *“One thing I’d change about my family is \_\_\_\_\_\_\_.”* **A tip:** if multiple students are writing answers at the same time, make a point to know what color marker they’re using, or monitor closely to see who writes what. Unfortunately, I’ve had some concerning statements written before, and it was a lot of work studying handwriting to determine who wrote it! Voila! With these quick and easy group counseling activities, your counseling groups will never have to be delayed due to lack of prep *(who has prep time anyway?)* and you can eliminate the stress of not having resources by having these activities in your back pocket. The added bonus is that these tried and true group counseling activities are all loved by students! ***Have a favorite quick and easy group counseling activity that I didn’t include? Share it below!*** **Check out another post: [10 Ways to Make Small Groups Terrific!](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/24/10-ways-to-make-small-groups-terrific/)** ### Shop the Post [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/116246050_311013056613456_5790666799831993361_n.jpg "116246050_311013056613456_5790666799831993361_n")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Counseling-Game-Feelings-Charades-2397618?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=10%20Easy%20Group%20Activities)[![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/116205884_289483385610619_537963254306517439_n.jpg "116205884_289483385610619_537963254306517439_n")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Counseling-Game-Feelings-Changing-Families-Social-Skills-3725625?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=10%20Easy%20Group%20Activities) ### Pin It for Later! ![10 quick and easy group counseling activities PINTEREST](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/10-quick-and-easy-group-counseling-activities-PINTEREST.jpg "10 quick and easy group counseling activities PINTEREST") **Categories:** Group Counseling, Popular Posts **Tags:** counseling activities, group counseling --- ### [How do you build relationships with teachers?](https://confidentcounselors.com/building-relationships-with-teachers/) **Published:** February 1, 2019 **Author:** Counselor Chelsey, Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop and Counselor Up and 1 more **Content:** A school counselor’s relationships with the teachers in their building is so important for student success. These ideas from Chelsey, Rebecca, Brandy, and Laura will definitely help you build strong relationships with teachers this year. ## Connecting with Teachers Connecting with teachers is so important, but with all of the other responsibilities we have, it can quickly go by the wayside. One of the biggest ways that I have built relationships with the teachers at my school is simply to be around them. It can be easy to stay secluded in my office all day, but I try to make my presence known. Some easy ways I do this are: - taking a quick lap through the halls at the beginning and end of the day, - eating lunch in the teacher’s lounge, and stopping in their rooms to say “Hi!” - participating in any “extra” staff activities that happen — a Christmas gift exchange or a potluck dinner. The more I am around the teachers and the more I talk to them, the more they get to know me and trust me. This trust then allows us to work well together to benefit our students and our school as a whole. ##### **Chelsey, CounselorChelsey** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselorchelsey?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Chelsey%20Author%20Box) for counseling ideas. Let’s connect on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/CounselorChelsey/)! ## Be Inclusive & Purposeful Hang out with them! I’ve always loved building personal relationships with my teachers. I have coordinated ultimate frisbee games, walks around the track after school, book clubs, get togethers after work, etc. I send around a social sign up at the beginning of the year because I never want to have an “in” group and and “out” group. Anyone who signs up gets all the emails about what we’re doing for fun. I also try to eat lunch where the teachers eat and trade around when I eat so that I spend time with all staff. We’re humans and in most workplaces, people spend time together. At schools, we have to be more intentional about making connections because so much of our workday is spent in direct service to students or in meetings with very full agendas. ##### **Rebecca, Counselor Up** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Up?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=CUp%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://www.counselorup.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/counselorupblog/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/counselorup/)! ## Recognize Them Connecting with teachers is critical in keeping a positive staff morale and getting buy-in for your counseling program. In addition to a coffee and cocoa bar around the holidays and testing season, I like to leave random notes and treats in their mailboxes. Once a year, I send around a shout-out folder which always brings out all the feels of the school. I absolutely love to decorate the lounge with [motivational quotes, jokes, and self-care challenges,](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy/Category/Faculty-Staff-Morale-317485) I want teachers to get a smile every time they walk into the lounge. Finally, during professional development and faculty meetings, I will bring out games that only teachers would understand. Any little thing I can do to make a teacher’s life just a little bit better, is time well spent. I am so thankful for their service to our students. ##### **Brandy, THE COUNSELING TEACHER** Visit [my TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TCTB%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://thecounselingteacher.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thecounselingteacherbrandy/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/thecounselingteacher/)! ## Build Trust My connections with teachers have always had a direct and dramatic impact on the students and families that I work with. Having them on board is the different between a successful and failed intervention. I dedicate lots of purposeful time to being a support to teachers and someone they can count on to keep their promises. One of my tried and true strategies is Morning Rounds. Just like doctors in a hospital, I pick a grade level or a classroom each morning and drop in. I check on specific students, strategies they are using, and general whole-class issues that might be popping up. I am careful not to walk away with a mile-long to do list. I will give some suggestions or drop a resource in their mailbox that day. For [8 more suggestions on building relationships](https://socialemotionalworkshop.com/2015/08/6-ways-to-build-relationships-with-teachers/) with teachers, head over to my blog. ##### **Laura, Social Emotional Workshop** Visit [my TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SEW%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://socialemotionalworkshop.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/socialemotionalworkshop/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/SocialEmotionalWorkshop/)! Need more? Check out Rebecca’s suggestions for [How to Handle Uncomfortable Conversations with Parents and Teachers.](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/31/handling-uncomfortable-conversations/) ![Building relationships with teachers as a school counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/1.png "Building relationships with teachers as a school counselor") **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Teachers **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Chelsey, Counselor Up, Social Emotional Workshop, teachers, The Counseling Teacher Brandy --- ### [What Do You Love About Being a School Counselor?](https://confidentcounselors.com/being-a-school-counselor/) **Published:** February 8, 2019 **Author:** Counselor Chelsey, The Counseling Teacher Brandy and Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor **Content:** When we have a minute to step back, our role as a school counselors is pretty amazing. In our buildings we serve a unique role, make a positive impact, and provide a safe space for students and staff. Chelsey, Ashely, and Brandy remind me why we love being school counselors. ## We have a unique role My favorite thing about being a school based counselor is getting to **build relationships** with the students and staff. Our position is unique in that we truly have the potential to impact every person in our school. I love getting to know my students and having the opportunity to support them by helping them learn the **social emotional skills** they need to be successful. I also love being a part of **helping other educators** meet the needs of their students. It is so fun to have such a special and unique role within the school! ![CounselorChelsey](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/CounselorChesleyRound.png "CounselorChesleyRound") ##### ***Chelsey, CounselorChelsey*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselorchelsey?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Chelsey%20Author%20Box) for counseling resources. Let’s connect on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/CounselorChelsey/)! ## We make a positive impact My favorite thing about being a school counselor is that I can be there for students in their moment of need. I love being able to be the one that helps empower students to face their problems and grow as individuals. As counselors, we get to be there for students in crisis – and connect families with resources when they are in need. There is no greater feeling in the world than having a career that allows you to leave such a **positive impact** on so many people. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mrs-Bell-Transparent.png "Mrs Bell Transparent") ##### ***Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Crafty%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/mrsbellthecraftycounselor/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/thecraftycounselor614/)! ## We are a safe space I consider it a privilege to serve the community as a school counselor. My favorite aspect of the job is creating a warm, safe space for students to use as a refuge from the hustle and bustle of the hallways and classrooms. I use lamps instead of the harsh overhead lighting to give my office the calming, mindful feeling that is so important for everyone. I keep [mindful coloring activities](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy/Category/Mindfulness-321888) with markers and colored pencils available for that student or teacher who just needs a quiet minute. Spa music, comfortable furniture, and fidget toys finish off the ambience that every student deserves when they need a break. The best perk is being able to do all of my work in that cozy space! ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/The-Counseling-Teacher.png "The Counseling Teacher") ##### **Brandy, *The Counseling Teacher*** Visit [my TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TCTB%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://thecounselingteacher.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thecounselingteacherbrandy/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/thecounselingteacher/)! What do you love about being a school counselor? **Share in the comments!** ![What do you love about being a school counselor? School counselors make a positive impact, provide a safe space, and have a unique role. ](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/2.png "love about being a school counselor") **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Counselor Role **Tags:** CC tips --- ### [Kindness Books We Love](https://confidentcounselors.com/kindness-books/) **Published:** February 10, 2019 **Author:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials and Pawsitive School Counselor **Content:** We love using kindness books in classroom lessons and in counseling sessions. We asked Laura from The Pawsitive School Counselor and Carol Miller, The Middle School Counselor to share their go to children’s books on kindness. Check to see if they some of your favorites too. ## Kindness Books for Younger Students When it comes to kindness, caring, and Valentine’s Day, there are so many great book titles to choose from. For emerging readers I love the Elephant and Piggie series by Mo Willems. Books like [My Friend Is Sad](https://amzn.to/2UP7lmK), [Can I Play Too?](https://amzn.to/2WRmINx), and [Should I Share My Ice Cream?](https://amzn.to/2MXkWpt) are wonderful introductions to friendship and empathy. [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1423143434&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US)](https://www.amazon.com/Should-Share-Cream-Elephant-Piggie/dp/1423143434/ref=as_li_ss_il?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1549656695&sr=1-1&keywords=should+i+share+my+ice+cream+book&linkCode=li3&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=a1d7435ae19384d47ad015deebb5c0df&language=en_US)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=1423143434) Another book for younger students in [What Does It Mean To Be Kind](https://amzn.to/2WPMCRH) by Rana DiOrio. This book gives many examples of kindness, which provides an easy to understand visual for younger students. For older elementary students [Each Kindness](https://amzn.to/2TDrk7W) is still my go to book. The story and illustrations lends themselves to deep conversation about first impressions and the ripple effects of our actions – both kind and unkind. \[tcb-script type=”text/javascript”\]amzn\_assoc\_tracking\_id = “confidentcounselors-20”;amzn\_assoc\_ad\_mode = “manual”;amzn\_assoc\_ad\_type = “smart”;amzn\_assoc\_marketplace = “amazon”;amzn\_assoc\_region = “US”;amzn\_assoc\_design = “enhanced\_links”;amzn\_assoc\_asins = “0399246525”;amzn\_assoc\_placement = “adunit”;amzn\_assoc\_linkid = “8b6f48b75110734dbec374175db8d798″;\[/tcb-script\]\[tcb-script src=”//z-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/onejs?MarketPlace=US”\]\[/tcb-script\]![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Laura-Filtness-Logo.jpg "Laura Filtness Logo") ##### ***Laura, The Paws-itive School Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Paws-itive-School-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TPSC%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://pawsitiveschoolcounselor.wordpress.com/blog/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/pawsitiveschoolcounselor/)! ## Special Kindness Books I honestly don’t use many books in my counseling lessons, even though kids love them. The ones I do use, are my absolute favorites and when I share them with the students they become even more special. When it comes time to teaching kindness, I do have 2 books that are staples in my program. [Enemy Pie](https://amzn.to/2UOU6Tc) by Derek Munson, is the first book I added to my collection and I love reading it every year. It’s a wonderful story about turning one’s enemy into a friend and how spending time getting to know someone can make all the difference in the world. I have used this with middle schoolers and elementary students and it is their favorite too! [The Jelly Donut Difference](https://amzn.to/2SBK7Db) by Maria Dismondy was recommended to me this year by a few fellow counselors. This is a heartwarming story about how little acts of kindness can transform not only how others feel but how you feel yourself. I used [this lesson](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Jelly-Donut-Difference-Lesson-Plan-4242859?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Kindness%20Books%20Post) to accompany the book and it too was a hit with students and the pennants made a great display for all to see how we can spread kindness ourselves. ## Grab the Book & Lesson! [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Jelly-Donut-Difference-Carol.jpg "Jelly Donut Difference Carol")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/The-Jelly-Donut-Difference-Lesson-Plan-4242859?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Kindness%20Books%20Post)[![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0997608501&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US)](https://www.amazon.com/Jelly-Donut-Difference-Sharing-Kindness/dp/0997608501/ref=as_li_ss_il?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1549656962&sr=1-1&keywords=jelly+donut+difference&linkCode=li3&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=281768ebcb8d94d8ebe16bfb04b6a627&language=en_US)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=0997608501)![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg "Carol Miller") ##### ***Carol Miller, The Middle School Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TMSC%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://www.themiddleschoolcounselor.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/themiddleschoolcounselor/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/themiddleschoolcounselor/)! Need more resources focused on kindness? Check out [10 minute kindness activities for the classroom](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/08/kindness_activities/). **What are you favorite books on Kindness? Share in the comments below!** ![6 books on kindness that we love for classroom lessons and counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/CC-Pin-Convo-Posts-1_19-4_19.png "kindness book recommdations") **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Counselor Role **Tags:** book recommendations, Carol Miller Counseling Essentials, CC tips, kindness, Paws-itive School Counselor, supplies --- ### [Creating Buy-In for Social Emotional Learning](https://confidentcounselors.com/creating-buy-in-for-social-emotional-learning/) **Published:** February 18, 2019 **Author:** Counselor Up **Content:** Are you working on creating buy-in for social-emotional learning at your school? This post is for you to share with other educators in your building to spread the word about why Social Emotional Learning is important. Think about the best job you’ve ever had. It could be in your education career, it could be at an ice cream shop in high school. What did you love about it? I bet you liked your boss. They cared about you. They wanted you to be successful and they were going to walk alongside you to make sure that happened. Now imagine a time when you’ve learned something new. Something hard. Something you didn’t master right away. What did you feel? Probably frustration, probably times when you were ready to give up. How did you want to be treated while this was happening? You probably wanted some guidance but mostly to be able to figure it out. When we combine these two experiences, we create a classroom. The teacher is the boss and students are all trying to learn something new. Learning happens best when we are in a supportive environment where we feel socially and emotionally safe. Social emotional safety is a bit different from [social emotional learning](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/pedagogy-of-social-emotional-learning). Social Emotional Learning (SEL) requires skill acquisition by the learner. [The National Center on Safe Supportive Learning Environments](https://safesupportivelearning.ed.gov/topic-research/safety/emotional-safety) defines Emotional Safety as “**An experience in which one feels safe to express emotions, security, and confidence to take risks and feel challenged and excited to try something new.”** They describe three basic tenets of emotional safety: Emotions are important in the classroom. SEL is fundamental to learning and includes 5 core SEL skills. Effective instructional methods for teaching SEL skills are active, participatory, and engaging. ### Emotions in the Classroom Emotions are important in the classroom for two reasons. One is that emotions have an impact on learning. Students who feel safe and aren’t afraid to make mistakes are more likely to take risks and learn new materials. Secondly, managing emotions is a skill that students must develop to be college and career ready. When working with your classroom teachers, help them explore how students express emotion in their classroom and the response of the class to that expression. If students aren’t able to express emotion without being reprimanded, consider exploring trauma-informed schools strategies to help your teachers to understand how trauma and other outside-school factors, can effects students ability to regulate their emotions to learn. If students can express their emotions but often choose inappropriate or disruptive expressions, direct social emotional instruction in managing emotions and calming down might be appropriate. ### SEL is Active, Participatory, and Engaging Classroom lessons with explicit instruction in Social Emotional skills have an important place in SEL. However, the best learning takes place in the moment of need. When a student is resolving a conflict with a peer, teachers and counselors have an opportunity to practice the skill that may have previously been taught in a conflict resolution lesson. Don’t let these moments pass you by! Consider how the class can incorporate these moments into all instruction to increase academic and social emotional skills. For example, if two classmates are debating the main idea in an argumentative text, teach them about [verbal and nonverbal communication](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/social-emotional-learning-out-of-this-world-social-skills) so that they can practice this new skill in their debate. If you are writing poetry as a class, incorporate language around feelings and emotional intelligence. SEL is the “real life” part of education and both social emotional skills and academic skills are enhanced by its inclusion. **Are you struggling with buy-in for Social Emotional Learning in your school?** **Share what some of the roadblocks are in the comments.** ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Creating-Buy-In.png) **Categories:** Your Program **Tags:** social emotional learning --- ### [Making The Most Out Of Non-Counseling Duties](https://confidentcounselors.com/making-most-noncounseling-duties/) **Published:** February 28, 2019 **Author:** EduKate & Inspire, The Counseling Teacher Brandy and Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor **Content:** In a perfect non-counseling duties would not be part of our schedule. There can be an upside to tasks that do not require our advanced degrees. Keep reading to see how three Confident Counselors make the most our of non-counseling duties. ## Build Relationships Any non-counseling duty can quickly become a chance for building authentic relationships with students and staff. In fact, I would often check myself into “lunch duty” just to be able to walk around the cafeteria to dole out some high fives. Be careful not to be a disciplinarian. You want your interactions to be light, fun and friendly. You do want to correct misbehavior, but do it in a positive, redirecting tone. You want every student to know exactly who you are and that you are approachable. Make eye contact and try to speak to every single student as often as possible. Building authentic relationships with our students is the foundation for a successful comprehensive school counseling program. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/The-Counseling-Teacher.png "The Counseling Teacher") ##### ***Brandy, The Counseling Teacher*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TCTB%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://thecounselingteacher.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thecounselingteacherbrandy/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/thecounselingteacher/)! ## Maximize the Time I use my main non-counseling duties to build relationships with students and families. One of my favorite parts of the day is my morning hallway duty. I stand by our main doors and welcome kids into the building. I use this as a time to do quick check-ins with some of the students I see frequently for self-esteem or behavioral issues. It’s also a predictable spot for students to be able to find me each day. Similarly, at the end of each day, I stand in the same spot and monitor parent pick-ups. This is a great time of day for quick check-ins with parents and guardians. My least favorite non-counseling duty is changing the marquee sign in front of our school–it’s the kind of sign that you change letter by letter no matter the weather! After completing this task for several months on my own, I decided to change my negative mindset and began inviting a student to help me change the sign. Now, it’s a great time to talk with a student, give them an opportunity to help, and give us both a breath of fresh air! ![EduKate & Inspire](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/New-Logo.png "New Logo") ##### ***Kate, EduKate & Inspire*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=EduKate%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/edukateinspire/)! ## Check-Ins and Observations I love using bus duty to complete a quick check in/check out with many of my students. It is the perfect opportunity to build rapport with students as well as learn more about them as individuals. It is so interesting to see how students I am working with interact and engage with their peers. Watching how a student acts in unstructured environments outside of your classroom or office setting can tell you a lot about a student. I also like to be involved with clubs and organizations on campus. Being familiar with the groups is a great way to find extra supports for students. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mrs-Bell-Transparent.png "Mrs Bell Transparent") ##### ***Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Crafty%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/mrsbellthecraftycounselor/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/thecraftycounselor614/)! ## Need more help? - [The perfect list](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/home/appropriate-activities-of-school-counselors.pdf) from ASCA with appropriate and inappropriate activities for counselors. - [6 Sure Fire Ways to Say No to Non-Counseling Duties](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/25/non-counseling-duties/) ![How do you make the most out of non-counseling duties?](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/5.png "Non-counseling duties") **Categories:** Advocacy, Counselor Chats **Tags:** CC tips, EduKate & Inspire, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, non-counseling duties, The Counseling Teacher Brandy --- ### [Spice Up Your Classroom Guidance Lessons](https://confidentcounselors.com/spice-up-classroom-guidance-lessons/) **Published:** March 3, 2019 **Author:** School Counselor Stephanie, The Counseling Teacher Brandy and Counselor Keri and 1 more **Content:** Classroom guidance lessons can be tricky. You are not in each classroom frequently enough to develop consistent routines, every classroom has their own dynamic, and your lessons might be, well a bit boring. Check out tips from four Confident Counselors about how they spice up their classroom guidance lessons. ## Get Them Moving To [spice up classroom guidance lessons](https://mailchi.mp/counselorkeri/classroomguidancemagiccourse), I try to find ways to get students out of their seats, [let them move](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/10/students-moving-during-counseling-lessons/), and make interactive games out of our lesson topics. Any time I see versatile supplies like cones or buckets on sale, I grab those to turn into counseling games. Using supplies like this, pretty much any question and answer activity can be turned into a relay! We do a lot of centers as well. Centers help students practice cooperation skills while completing time-limited activities. I find that time-limited centers result in higher engagement and more on-task behaviors during skill practice time! ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/circlehead.png "circlehead") ##### ***Keri, Counselor Keri*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=CKeri%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://www.counselorkeri.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/counselorkeri/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/counselorkeri/)! ## Use Videos I get bored easily, especially doing the same lesson over and over again. To keep my sanity, I have to include a variety of elements to break up the lesson. I almost always start off with a quick video clip on the topic of the day to hook the students. Next, I usually show a powerpoint (with sounds and clipart always) that often includes links to other short video clips between the text. I always include some sort of craft or mindful coloring element that students can do either individually or with a group following our discussion. [Flipbooks](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy/Category/Flipbooks-278068) are one of my favorite crafts and can be sent home as a reminder of the lesson. It never hurts to splash in some spa music while they are working independently. I have found that this calms them and is an excellent way to keep everyone on task. The music also helps with classroom management because I use it as a reward for good behavior. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/The-Counseling-Teacher.png "The Counseling Teacher") ##### ***Brandy, The Counseling Teacher*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TCTB%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://thecounselingteacher.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thecounselingteacherbrandy/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/thecounselingteacher/)! ## Behavior Cards & Silly Outfits Towards the second half of the year, students can start to check out a bit and behaviors can start to get a bit harder to control. I like to spice up my lessons, as well as manage behaviors, with [behavior cards](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Behavior-Cards-Bundle-360-Cards-Monthly-Behavior-Cards-2690993). These cards help me to manage behaviors as well as motivate and compliment students who are meeting my expectations. I switch them out every month to help with student engagement. I also like to spice up lessons by incorporating lots of hands on activities, youtube videos and music that ties into the skills I am teaching. I am also known to wear silly outfits that match the story I am reading or a superhero cape to help catch and keep student’s attention. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mrs-Bell-Transparent.png "Mrs Bell Transparent") ##### ***Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Crafty%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/mrsbellthecraftycounselor/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/thecraftycounselor614/)! ## Books & Treats I love guidance lessons and have a lot of fun spicing them up with healthy treats and bibliotherapy. I bring snacks like veggie chips or fruit chews in a container and then let students take a treat if they raise their hand to answer a question or follow a class rule. This really makes them enjoy my visits and keeps them super-engaged during the guidance lesson. I also try to always bring books with me related to the SEL or college/career topic that we are learning. As an intro or closing, I read a few pages or a chapter of the book aloud. They love it! This quarter, I am alternating between reading them passages from *Letters to a Bullied Girl* and *Vicious*. Even though I have big kids up to age 15, I also read to them from picture books such as the fabulous [*Salt in his Shoes*](https://amzn.to/2T4auCU); in fact, I have an entire [stress management guidance lesson](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Give-Stress-a-Rest-Growth-Mindset-Guidance-Lesson-on-Stress-Management-3499614) created around this fabulous growth mindset themed book about Michael Jordan, as written by his mother. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/School-Counselor-Stephanie.png "School Counselor Stephanie") ##### ***Stephanie, School Counselor Stephanie*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counselor-Stephanie?utm_source=CC%20blog&utm_campaign=SCS%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/schoolcounselorstephanie/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/schoolcounselorstephanie/)! **How do you make classroom guidance lessons interesting?** Check out this post from CounselorChelsey: [5 Classroom Management Strategies for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/05/5-classroom-management-strategies-school-counselors/). ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/8.png "8") **Categories:** Class Lessons, Counselor Chats **Tags:** CC tips, classroom lessons, Counselor Keri, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, School Counselor Stephanie, The Counseling Teacher Brandy --- ### [15 Strategies to Help Kids Deal with Stress](https://confidentcounselors.com/helps-kids-deal-with-stress/) **Published:** March 5, 2019 **Author:** Counselor Keri **Content:** During the second quarter of the school year, I started talking to my seventh graders about stress. We did a simple [self-assessment](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/stress-activity-stress-self-assessment-classroom-guidance-lesson-stress-levels) and nearly all of my students were reporting high levels of stress about things like school work and interpersonal problems. This is of course not unique to my students. According to a study from the APA, students are more stressed out than ever, [reporting levels of stress higher than those of adults during the school year](https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2014/02/teen-stress). So how can we help kids deal with stress? Keep reading to find 15 strategies to help your students manage their stressors. # Help Kids Deal with Stress ## 1. Provide psychoeducation First and foremost, I [teach kids what stress is](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/what-is-stress-classroom-guidance-lesson-on-stress-response-system). We talk about the structures and functions of the brain. We talk about adrenaline, cortisol, and fight, flight, freeze responses. And we talk about the long term effects of chronic HPA activation. I find that when students understand actual biological processes, the feelings and experiences associated with stress (and anything else!) are normalized and become easier to talk about. ## 2. Help kids notice what their bodies are telling them Teach students to tune into their bodies and look for clues. This takes some practice! A book I love that covers this topic is *My Incredible Talking Body* by Rebecca Bowen. When students are able to listen to their bodies and notice what’s happening, they can utilize skills to manage their stress. Which leads us to our next strategy… ## 3. Keep a journal When students are able to identify what stress feels like in their bodies, have them keep a journal to track their feelings and experiences. Have them track times of day when they notice stress or activities or situations that trigger stress responses. Ask students to make note of patterns and how they respond to the situations so that they can learn more about their own. Use this information to make a plan to deal with and manage stressors with strategies described below. ![Are you working with totally stressed out students in school counseling? Check out these 15 strategies to help kids deal with stress!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/2.png) ## 4. Set up a calm morning and night routine If your students notice that they are feeling stress during the school day, help them create a calming morning routine. This can be a routine at home or something they complete when they arrive at school with breathing, self-talk, yoga, or other activities they find calming. If you have a calm area or room at school, students can visit for 5 minutes to center and calm before the day begins. If your students notice that stress is interfering with their ability to fall or stay asleep, create a calming nighttime routine. Your students might find meditation, music, or putting away devices an hour before bedtime helpful in reducing stress. ![Are you working with totally stressed out students in school counseling? Check out these 15 strategies to help kids deal with stress!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/15-Ways-to-Help-Kids-Manage-Stress-6.png) ## 5. Get organized I also spend time teaching organizational skills for students who identify school work as a stressor. When we broke things down and talked about these specific stressors, I heard that many of my students didn’t know how to plan and organize tasks toward accomplishing long-term projects. We focus on writing down assignments, using organizers, and setting timelines. My students each identify one big project they’re working on. Then, they break the project down into the smallest possible parts. For each part, they set mini-deadlines, make a list of supplies they’ll need to accomplish these tasks, and make a list of people who can help if they need help. [This helps students to visually see what needs to happen](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/organization-activity-getting-organized-classroom-guidance-lesson) and develop a game plan to accomplish it. Setting and sticking to mini-deadlines helps students stay on track and reduce some of the stress that comes with approaching tasks at the last minute, too. ![Are you working with totally stressed out students in school counseling? Check out these 15 strategies to help kids deal with stress!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/3.png) ## 6. Look for stressors that can be eliminated Many of our students are facing stressors over which they have little or no control. But some of our students are feeling stressed about [being overextended](https://www.chla.org/blog/rn-remedies/how-tell-if-your-teen-over-scheduled) or being in an unequal friendship – stressors they may have control over. After completing a self assessment and identifying stressors, help students look for stressors that can be eliminated. Maybe it’s an afterschool activity that they can let go. Maybe it’s a friendship that isn’t serving them well anymore. Role play with students how they will talk to parents or coaches about letting go of an activity or how they will deal with moving away from the relationship. ## 7. Focus on social supports I place a big emphasis on reaching out for help when feeling overwhelmed! I want my students to know that it’s okay to ask for help or to talk about how they’re feeling with others. To get students thinking about supportive people in their lives, we talk about [supportive qualities and unsupportive qualities](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/social-supports-lesson-circle-of-support-activity-for-stress-management). Then, we assign supportive qualities a color. Students divide a mandala into sections and each section is for the supportive people in their lives. They choose 3 supportive qualities each person has and color that section of the mandala with those colors. During this activity, students are focusing on the positive qualities of the people in their lives and practicing a calming coloring activity. For some of my students, this activity revealed that some of the people they tend to go to for help don’t necessarily possess the supportive qualities they were looking for in times of stress. [![Are you working with totally stressed out students in school counseling? Check out these 15 strategies to help kids deal with stress!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/15-Ways-to-Help-Kids-Manage-Stress-1.png)](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/social-supports-lesson-circle-of-support-activity-for-stress-management) ## 8. Teach conflict resolution and communication skills In a [study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health](https://www.jhsph.edu/research/centers-and-institutes/center-for-adolescent-health/_includes/_pre-redesign/Teen_Stress_Guide.pdf), 64% of teens identified interpersonal problems as a stressor in their lives. Many of my students said that not knowing how to resolve conflicts with friends or not knowing how to talk to friends about problems was a major source of stress for them as well. To help students dealing with stress related to friendship problems or conflict, explicitly teach [conflict resolution](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/conflict-resolution-activity-resolving-conflicts-classroom-guidance-lesson) and communication skills. I have my students make a T-chart with actions that create positive conflict resolution and actions that lead to conflict resolution roadblocks. We talk about how these fit into different types of communication and then role-play positive conflict resolution. ## 9. Yoga It’s no secret that [yoga is effective for reducing stress](https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/04/11/school-based-yoga-may-help-kids-reduce-stress-anxiety/134543.html)! Implementing schoolwide yoga time during morning meetings is a great way to help all students practice the calming exercise. If this isn’t feasible in your setting, help students create a 5-minute yoga sequence to do in the morning, during recess breaks, or before bed to let go of stress. Not a yogi yourself? Check out resources from [GoZen](https://gozen.com/) and [Cosmic Kids Yoga](https://www.youtube.com/user/CosmicKidsYoga) to get started. ![Are you working with totally stressed out students in school counseling? Check out these 15 strategies to help kids deal with stress!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/15-Ways-to-Help-Kids-Manage-Stress-5.png) ## 10. Mindfulness & breathing exercises Mindfulness is a powerful tool for reducing stress through focusing on the here and now. Many students find themselves stressing about future or past events, and mindfulness combats this type of thinking. Lead students through guided meditations, practice mindful eating or breathing, or go on a mindful nature walk. There are [so many different ways to practice mindfulness](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-from-a-to-z-26-mindfulness-scripts-and-mindfulness-activities-1), so encourage students to try a variety of strategies until they find one that works for them. ## 11. Physical exercise The [benefits of exercise are tenfold](https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/related-illnesses/other-related-conditions/stress/physical-activity-reduces-st), especially when it comes to stress reduction. Help students find exercises that they actually enjoy by practicing a variety of aerobic movements. Make it fun with inflatable dice! Assign each number on the die an exercise and a number. Students roll the dice and do the exercise shown for the number of times shown. ## 12. Self-talk Help students develop meaningful positive [self-talk to address their stress](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/positive-thinking/art-20043950). Identify negative thinking contributing to or reinforcing feelings of stress and work on combatting this with positive self-talk statements. Encourage students to also be mindful of the ways that their peers or others in their lives contribute to the self-talk they engage in. [![Are you working with totally stressed out students in school counseling? Check out these 15 strategies to help kids deal with stress!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/15-Ways-to-Help-Kids-Manage-Stress-3.png)](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/stress-management-centers-activities-to-manage-stress) ## 13. Music Some students may find music to be a stress-relieving activity. Students can create a playlist with songs that help them feel calm or a playlist with their favorite songs to sing or dance to. ## [![Are you working with totally stressed out students in school counseling? Check out these 15 strategies to help kids deal with stress!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/15-Ways-to-Help-Kids-Manage-Stress-4.png)](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/stress-management-centers-activities-to-manage-stress) ## 14. Limit screen usage Encourage students to limit their use of phones, video games, and TV before bedtime. Sleep is imperative for stress management, and [some studies suggest the blue light emitted from screens ](https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/mental-wealth/201211/screens-and-the-stress-response)interferes with sleep. Help students set up a plan for when they will turn off games or set aside phones to aid in healthy sleep habits. ## 15. Teach gratitude practices As a part of the [stress unit I do with my students](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/social-supports-lesson-circle-of-support-activity-for-stress-management), we spend time focusing on gratitude. We talk about all of the [physical, emotional, mental, and social health benefits](https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/is_gratitude_good_for_your_health) of gratitude and try several exercises. Here are a few gratitude exercises we do: - write one letter of gratitude each week - express gratitude for 3 things/people at the end of each day - look for ways to [express gratitude for unusual things](https://www.counselorkeri.com/2016/10/10/the-gratitude-game/) How do you teach kids to deal with stress? What strategies work for your students? Leave them in the comments section! ![Are you working with totally stressed out students in school counseling? Check out these 15 strategies to help kids deal with stress! Stress management for kids is important in elementary school, middle school, and high school. Help kids cope with stress with these 15 stress busting coping skills.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Copy-of-15-Ways-to-Help-Kids-Manage-Stress.png) **Categories:** Class Lessons, Counseling **Tags:** stress --- ### [3 Powerful Reasons for Teaching Mindfulness](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-amazing-reasons-you-should-be-teaching-mindfulness/) **Published:** February 20, 2019 **Author:** The Counseling Teacher Brandy **Content:** What is mindfulness? Simply put, it’s the ability to pay attention to the present moment, without any judgment. Although it may seem like a simple task, it’s actually getting harder and harder to practice in our digital world. We used to get bored waiting in line, so we would sit and enjoy a simple moment. We might smile and watch the legs of a ladybug as it strolls across a window sill. We would delight in the brightness of its color and the tickling feeling of its tiny feet walking across our hand. Now we reach for our phones at the slightest hint of a wait. So we miss the ladybug and all of its simplistic splendor. I want to talk about why it’s so crucial to get those moments back. Let’s look at **three powerful reasons to teach mindfulness to kids**. ### Digital Junkies We are raising technology junkies. When the mind is stimulated by technology, the brain produces a chemical called dopamine. This makes us feel “high.” When the high of technology goes away, our brains feel depleted and bored. Mindfulness helps you in that moment to cope with that feeling. You learn to be comfortable in the stillness and let that stillness heal the connections in your brain. When you allow your brain that downtime, it uses it to create stronger, more resilient connections that reap huge psychological and physiological benefits. Practicing daily mindfulness is key to training the brain to slow down and seek solace in the moment instead of seeking that dopamine fix. You can try this [free challenge](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Technology-Addiction-Challenge-3876824) with your students to support their healthy technology habits! [![free technology habits download](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/52151474_2054982231245617_7730689550795669504_n-1024x1024.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Technology-Addiction-Challenge-3876824) ### Psychological Benefits [Studies from top scholars](https://www.forbes.com/sites/jeenacho/2016/07/14/10-scientifically-proven-benefits-of-mindfulness-and-meditation/#2862531e63ce) around the world are finding over and over again that people who practice regular mindfulness report numerous benefits including being happier and having less stress. They are also better at regulating their emotions and concentrating. This leads to improved friendships, better grades in school and more success in life. It sounds too good to be true. But sometimes, the simplest things in life are the answer. ![Teaching Mindfulness to Kids](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Screen-Shot-2019-01-30-at-11.17.17-AM-300x204.png) ### Physical Benefits Probably mostly to do with lower stress levels, those who practice mindfulness also report better physical health. They get sick less often and “feel” better. Lowered stress also reduces the risk of all kinds of diseases. Who wouldn’t want better physical health? Gym teachers would be first in line to teach mindfulness if they knew the power. With these compelling reasons to teach mindfulness, you would think that every school in every town, in every country would be teaching it. It is catching on, but we aren’t where we need to be. I found an interesting Ted Talk by Anne Marie Rossi. She discusses the importance of teaching mindfulness in schools. I played it for my 6th, 7th, and 8th graders during the middle of a mindfulness lesson. They were instructed to color a [mindful coloring page](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mindset-Bell-Ringer-Journal-FREE-WEEK-4209319) while listening. You could hear a pin drop in the room. It’s one of my favorite subjects to teach. The students love it because I’m the only one in the school telling them to stop and do nothing for a moment. Check out the video: [Why Aren’t We Teaching You Mindfulness.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yJPcdiLEkI) [![free mindful printables](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/51947632_612274249213656_7803862659509518336_n-1024x1024.jpg)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mindset-Bell-Ringer-Journal-FREE-WEEK-4209319?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Mindfulness%20022019%20TCTB) A quote that stands out to me from this video is, “You will be judged by your reaction, not your reasons.” Anne Marie Rossi. This is so true! Do you have a favorite quote about mindfulness? Let us know! **If you are looking for ready-made mindfulness resources to add to your toolbox, check out this [bundle](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mindfulness-Activities-Bundle-3711702?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Mindfulness%20022019%20TCTB).** ![Teach Mindfulness to Kids](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Pins-4-683x1024.jpg) **Categories:** Class Lessons **Tags:** mindfulness --- ### [Our Favorite Ways to Teach Organizational Skills](https://confidentcounselors.com/teach-organizational-skills/) **Published:** March 7, 2019 **Author:** Pawsitive School Counselor, The DIY Counselor and The Responsive Counselor and 1 more **Content:** Organizational skills are important to a student’s success at any age. That said, it can be a bit of a dry topic. Keep reading how four Confident Counselors teach organizational skills to students in K-8. ## Make It Real and Personal Lots of our students hear “you need to be organized” but don’t actually know what this means or what it looks like. My first step to teaching organization is to explicitly [show students what it means](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Organization-Lesson-and-Activities-4071324) to have an organized desk and backpack. I give them examples and non-examples. Another important step is getting student investment in the ***importance*** of organization and the reason for it, so I talk to them about how being organized can actually make their lives easier. And last, I work with my students on creating their own personal plan for improving their organization. Sometimes it’s them writing down steps to take to become organized and sometimes it’s making a plan with their parents or teacher about having an adult facilitate regular “backpack cleanouts”. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Picture2.png "Sara Profile Pic") ##### ***Sara, The Responsive Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Responsive-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TRC%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](http://www.theresponsivecounselor.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/theresponsivecounselor/)! ## Show Impact of Disorganization I like talking about how long being organized vs. unorganized takes us. First, I give them a messy backpack full of trash and loose papers. Along with the backpack I give them a “scavenger hunt” checklist of things to find in the back pack. We time how long it takes us to find those items. We then repeat with a clean and organized backpack and compare our times. Afterwards I ask them to clean up the messy backpack and we again time ourselves. To debrief we compare time, energy and effort used with each assignment, feelings going through the messy backpack and finally what they would do with the “extra” time organization brings. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Laura-Filtness-Logo.jpg "Laura Filtness Logo") ##### ***Laura, The Paws-itive School Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Paws-itive-School-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TPSC%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://pawsitiveschoolcounselor.wordpress.com/blog/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/pawsitiveschoolcounselor/)! ## Use Technology I’ve addressed organizational skills in small groups and in individual sessions using this [No Prep Study Skills Lesson](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/No-Prep-Study-Skills-Classroom-Lesson-2201184). My main focus is to help students learn how to organize their time. My students have 1:1 technology, so I am helping students use the calendar app as an agenda. Students put project deadlines, homework, and test dates on the calendar, as well as, non-school related activities. This helps them to take ownership of their academics. ![The DIY Counselor](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n.jpg "16522635_10155016222977767_333943116_n") ##### ***Carla, The DIY Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Diy-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20blog&utm_campaign=DIY%20Author%20Box) for counseling resources. Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thediycounselor/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/DIYcounselor/)! ## Incorporate It Into Lessons Teaching students organizational skills is an important part of our job as school counselors! I work this topic into every guidance lesson as well as many group and individual sessions. I spend 10 minutes of every guidance lesson teaching a mini-lesson on organizational topics such as cleaning out your backpack, setting up your binder, or using a planner. In group or individual sessions, we analyze a student’s grades to identify weak areas and then create a SMART goal to improve in that area. - Here is my favorite [SMART goal organizational activity](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Start-SMART-Academic-Achievement-with-SMART-Goals-3499587), it can be used in groups or whole class lessons. In all of these lessons and sessions, I also use a fictional high school athlete named Chad to share his hard-earned life lessons in becoming an organized, successful student. The students love hearing how to stay organized from “Chad”. You can find Chad’s story in my book, [*Get Your Goal On Volume 2*](https://youthlight.com/product.php?id=3292). ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/School-Counselor-Stephanie.png "School Counselor Stephanie") ##### ***Stephanie, School Counselor Stephanie*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/School-Counselor-Stephanie?utm_source=CC%20blog&utm_campaign=SCS%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](http://schoolcounselorstephanie.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/schoolcounselorstephanie/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/schoolcounselorstephanie/)! **Do you teach organizational skills? Share what you do in the comments!** ![teaching organizational skills to students.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/7.png "teaching organizational skills") **Categories:** Counseling, Counselor Chats **Tags:** CC tips, organizational skills, Paws-itive School Counselor, School Counselor Stephanie, The DIY Counselor, The Responsive Counselor --- ### [Teaching Expected and Unexpected Behaviors](https://confidentcounselors.com/expected-unexpected-behaviors/) **Published:** March 10, 2019 **Author:** Counselor Chelsey **Content:** Although our work as school counselors can be very rewarding, it can also be frustrating! One of the things I have always found most frustrating is working with children who don’t seem to care at all about how their behavior affects others. They just don’t seem to realize that their behavior can have such a negative impact. When working with these students, it always seemed like I was banging my head against the wall trying to find interventions that would actually work. Finally, I started teaching students about **expected and unexpected behaviors**. This is now one of my favorite behavior intervention strategies, and has been so helpful for so many of my students! ### **What do I mean by expected and unexpected behaviors?** Expected behavior is simply behavior that is normal, reasonable and anticipated. Unexpected behavior is behavior that is out of the norm, and is unusual. This way of talking about behavior is different than how it is normally discussed, in that it doesn’t address behavior as simply “positive” or “negative”, since what is expected can vary from situation to situation. For example, it is expected to speak quietly at a library, but not at a football game. It is expected to raise your hand to speak at school, but it would be unexpected to do that at home. ### **Why does this make a difference?** One of the key components of talking about expected and unexpected behavior is encouraging students to consider how their behaviors make others feel, how their behaviors lead others to react, or even how their behaviors influence the way that others view/treat them. It is this piece that I believe really gets students to understand that their behavior has serious implications. If they exhibit unexpected behaviors at recess (hitting, not playing by the rules, etc.) it may lead to students not wanting to play with them. When students begin to understand that their behaviors impact how others view them, they may be more motivated to change their behaviors. ### **How do I introduce this?** To introduce this concept, I always begin by talking about restaurants they are familiar with. I ask them what they expect when they walk into a pizza restaurant. They usually say things like pizza, cashiers, waitresses, tables, etc. I then ask them how they feel when they walk in. This usually leads to feelings such as happy, calm, excited, etc. Then, I ask them what would happen if they walked into their favorite pizza place and the workers said they were no longer serving pizza, but were serving seafood instead. How would the students feel about that? From there I talk about what feelings are evoked from things that are unexpected. Once they have an understanding of what the terms mean, I transfer the discussion over to behavior, and talk about what feelings people have when our behavior is expected versus when it’s unexpected. ### **How can I teach my students more about this?** #### Use videos and books! **​**When reading books to your students, ask them if the behaviors in the books are expected or unexpected. Then, ask them how that behavior would make them feel. There are also a lot of great videos and movies about unexpected behavior. One of my personal favorites is the movie, Elf. Buddy the Elf is from the North Pole, and when he comes to New York City he does things that are quite unusual. This makes the people around him feel very uncomfortable and uneasy. It affects how others treat him – his brother doesn’t want anything to do with him at first, people give him weird looks, etc. However, in the North Pole, his behavior is completely expected and he is widely popular! This video is a perfect demonstration of his unexpected behaviors! #### Talk about it! For students with whom you meet regularly, through individual or small group counseling, you can each name one expected and one unexpected thing that you have done in the past week, and then talk about how it made others feel. For example, I once shared about how I went to another part of a store without telling my husband and that made him worry about me. I have found that being open about some of your own unexpected behaviors helps the students to be more honest about theirs. You can also ask them how they would feel if they were present when you acted in an unexpected manner. #### Have them make something they can take home One thing I try to incorporate into all of my counseling lessons is making sure that the students have something they can take home. I realize that it may just go straight into the trash, but my hope is that they keep it, refer to it, and maybe even show it to their parents. For expected and unexpected behaviors, I love to have my students make [this free foldable page](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Expected-And-Unexpected-Behaviors-Foldable-Activity-FREE-4383106?utm_source=CCC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Expected%20Behavior%20Freebie). It really helps them understand the idea of expected and unexpected behaviors, and how they can be different in different settings. If I am working with students in a small group, or in ongoing sessions, I have found [this interactive notebook](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Expected-and-Unexpected-Behaviors-Interactive-Notebook-2880884?utm_source=CCC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Expected%20Bhx%20INB) to be super helpful. It hits on all of the main concepts of expected and interactive behaviors, and is something they can keep! ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Picture.png "Unexpected and expected behaviors") Teaching about expected and unexpected behaviors helps students to better understand the implications of their behavior. Talking about behavior in this way has been instrumental in helping my students improve their behavior! **What has been your most successful behavior intervention strategy? Drop a comment below telling me about it!** ![Help your students improve their behavior and realize how it affects others by teaching them about expected and unexpected behaviors!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Pinterest-Image.png "Unexpected and expected behaviors") **Categories:** Individual Counseling, Popular Posts **Tags:** social skills --- ### [Test Anxiety: Activities and Ideas That Help](https://confidentcounselors.com/test-anxiety-activities/) **Published:** March 14, 2019 **Author:** Counselor Keri, The Responsive Counselor and The Counseling Teacher Brandy and 2 more **Content:** High stakes state testing can generate a lot of anxiety for students and adults alike. Counselors are uniquely prepared to support students so they have the strategies to manage this anxiety and do the best they can. Five Confident Counselors share their go-to activities and ideas for testing season. ## Positive Thinking & Calming Strategies During testing season, my focus is on calming fears or nerves and practicing positive and realistic thinking. I help students create affirmations for test day to remind themselves that their worth is not defined by test scores with our “[donut stress about the test](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Test-Prep-Strategies-Classroom-Guidance-Lesson-3634878?utm_source=CC%20Conv%20Testing&utm_campaign=Donut%20Stress%20%7C%20March%202019)” activity. I always save a chunk of time for students to ask all of the questions they need to ask about the test so we have a chance to clear up any misconceptions or conclusion-jumping ideas. We also spend a lot of time practicing calming strategies and little brain breaks they can do while seated if they need a 30-second break during the test. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/circlehead.png "circlehead") ##### ***Keri, Counselor Keri*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Keri?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=CKeri%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://www.counselorkeri.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/counselorkeri/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/counselorkeri/)! ## De-Stress Zone Now that I’m no longer test coordinator (hurrah!), my focus is on helping students feel calm and confident about state testing. One way I do this is through partnering with my librarian to make the library a “de-stress zone” with mandalas and colored pencils, stuffed animals, and glitter jars. We invite teachers to bring their classes down the afternoons after morning testing. We also pair up lower grade classes with upper grade classes during testing weeks; the younger kiddos make posters, chants, snack bags, etc. and come deliver them and give high-fives to the big kids. And finally, I like to lighten the mood when reviewing test taking strategies by doing a [zombie-themed escape room](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Test-Taking-Escape-Room-3689595) with my students. Making things a little silly always helps calm nerves! ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Picture2.png "Sara Profile Pic") ##### ***Sara, The Responsive Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Responsive-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TRC%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](http://www.theresponsivecounselor.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/theresponsivecounselor/)! ## Mindfulness Strategies I help teachers during testing season by teaching students [test taking skills for success](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mission-Test-Taking-Success-test-tips-test-anxiety-2400655). During my guidance lessons, I teach students calm down and mindfulness strategies that will help them to ease their mind and allow them to show what they know on the test. I find that teaching students how to clear their mind so they can focus is the best way I can support teachers and help set their students up for test taking success. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Mrs-Bell-Transparent.png "Mrs Bell Transparent") ##### ***Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Mrs-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Crafty%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://mrsbell-the-crafty-counselor.blogspot.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/mrsbellthecraftycounselor/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/thecraftycounselor614/)! ## Mindfulness Lesson I think any discussion of test taking should go hand in hand with a mindfulness lesson. I use guided meditation videos from The Honest Guys on Youtube to show students how to self-calm the night before a big event or test. Once they are calm, I show a powerpoint with [test taking strategies](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy/Category/Test-Prep-322667) and send them home with a flipbook containing the same information. The day of the test, we decorate the doorways with encouraging signs that say things like “You can do this!” or “You will rock this test!”. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/The-Counseling-Teacher.png "The Counseling Teacher") ##### ***Brandy, The Counseling Teacher*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TCTB%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://thecounselingteacher.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thecounselingteacherbrandy/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/thecounselingteacher/)! ## Build Confidence I try really hard to help kids think about their inner awesomeness when it is testing season. I try to keep the focus away from “you must do your best because this test is important” to one that is “You’ve got this, just show them what you know!”. I love leaving the students little inspirational messages, and my kindness lunch bunch students help me to [decorate pencils and lockers](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Test-Prep-Motivators-2530557) with notes of encouragement. ![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg "Carol Miller") ##### ***Carol Miller, The Middle School Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TMSC%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://www.themiddleschoolcounselor.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/themiddleschoolcounselor/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/themiddleschoolcounselor/)! **How do you support students during testing season?** Read more … [Build Positive Attitudes During Testing Season](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/06/positive-attitudes-during-testing/) ![How do you support students with test taking anxiety as high stakes tests are on the horizon. These confident counselors support students with test anxiety.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/6.png "Test anxiety support") **Categories:** Class Lessons, Collaboration, Counselor Chats **Tags:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials, CC tips, Counselor Keri, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, test anxiety, The Counseling Teacher Brandy, The Responsive Counselor --- ### [5 Strategies for Testing Taking Success](https://confidentcounselors.com/5-strategies-for-testing-taking-success/) **Published:** March 17, 2019 **Author:** Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor **Content:** Testing season can be the cause of anxiety and frustration for students and teachers alike. As school counselors, we have the unique ability to help prepare our students for test success in a multitude of ways. In addition to helping reinforce test-taking skills, we can teach students how to handle and cope with the big emotions that often accompany testing season. Below are five ways school counselors can help set their students up for test-taking success. ### Classroom Guidance Lessons School counselors can use part of the time they are in classrooms to focus on helping students to build strong test-taking skills. We can help reiterate test-taking strategies that teachers expect their students to use and help to fill in the gaps in understanding. I love using part of my guidance lessons to help to reinforce the strategies. By using the same common language and exposing students to the same skills, we can help engrain the strategies in their brain. I speak to the teachers ahead of time to find out what strategies they would like for me to touch upon in my classroom guidance lessons. After that, I tailor my lesson to mirror those strategies. During my lessons, I challenge students to complete “[Mission: Test Taking Success](https://mrsbellthecraftycounselor.com/2016/02/missiontest-taking-success/)”. I turn teaching test-taking skills into an interactive activity allowing students to learn skills while they have fun completing craftivities. ![5 strategies to help prepare your students for test taking success. Classroom lessons, calm down strategies and a culture of calm help create test success.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/IMG_1275-225x300.jpg) ### Calm Down Strategies and Coping Skills When thinking of test-taking success, it is important to think of a way to help students combat the worries that surround testing taking. To help with reducing and easing worries, I like to expose students to a variety of tools and strategies they can use to calm their worries in whichever way works best for them. I like to teach students how to use a stress ball, to take advantage of [calm down corners](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/04/creating-a-calm-corner/) or [zen zones](https://mrsbellthecraftycounselor.com/2018/08/zen-corner/), and to utilizes [calming techniques](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/15/10-ways-to-help-students-who-worry/) they can do from their seat during the test such as deep breathing or visualization. ![5 strategies to help prepare your students for test taking success. Classroom lessons, calm down strategies and a culture of calm help create test success.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/zen_wall.jpg) My favorite from-their-seat calm down strategy to teach is muscle relaxation. I teach students to tighten and loosen their worries away. We start with our fists. We clench our fists as tight as we can underneath our desks, we focus on squeezing all of the worries into that one area. Once all the worries are in our fist, we simply let them go. We then do the same with our arms, squeezing all our worries into our arms and then letting them go. Next is the shoulders and so on. ### Create a Positive Environment Creating a positive school culture [creates a calm environment](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/11/12/creating-a-calm-school-culture-with-peace-week/) for the students in your school. This calmness will help to naturally decrease stress levels allowing students to think more clearly and be able to perform to their full potential. Therefore, maintaining that sense of calm is especially important during testing season to help reduce the test anxiety. Creating a culture of calm or [culture of kindness](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/27/create-culture-of-kindness-at-school/) have positive benefits year round, not just testing season. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/FB-Feature-Peace-Week-1024x536.png) ### Self Esteem Builders As school counselors, we should teach students how to motivate themselves and to be confident in their abilities. One way to create confidence is with positive self-talk. Positive self-talk is an amazing tool that allows students to be in charge of their thinking and helps to build a growth mindset. One of my favorite sayings is, “Whether you think you can, or think you can’t, you’re right.” During testing season, the pressure and stress start to cause students to doubt themselves. It is of paramount importance that we teach students how to speak kindly to themselves to create that mindset for success. ![5 strategies to help prepare your students for test taking success. Classroom lessons, calm down strategies and a culture of calm help create test success.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/20190218_194046-2-e1550539173857-288x300.jpg) Along with positive self-talk, self-esteem builders can do wonders for a student to set a student up for test-taking success. Having students write daily affirmations and leave themselves notes of encouragement will help boost their confidence and ease their worries. ### Relatable Books Books with relatable characters or problems are an amazing tool for helping students deal with stress and anxiety. Stories allow students to process their own feelings through the lens of a character in a story. It is easier for children to cope with their own stress if they can brainstorm how someone else should handle the situation. My favorite books to help students deal with worry and set themselves up for test-taking success are: [Testing Miss Malarkey](https://amzn.to/2XttGso) by Judy Finchler and Kevin O’Malley [The Anti-Test Anxiety Society](https://amzn.to/2T6GRRz) by Julia Cook [The Big Test](https://amzn.to/2Nx9OA5) by Julia Danneberg [First Grade Takes a Test](https://amzn.to/2XqxquN) by Miriam Cohen **What strategies do you use to set your students up for success? Drop your tips in the comments below!** ![5 strategies to help prepare your students for test taking success. Classroom lessons, calm down strategies and a culture of calm help create test success.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/CC_Test-Success.png) **Categories:** Class Lessons **Tags:** test anxiety --- ### [Teaching Conflict Resolution: Strategies for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/teaching-conflict-resolution/) **Published:** April 4, 2019 **Author:** The Responsive Counselor **Content:** No matter what your school looks like, chances are you’re helping students to effectively and peacefully manage conflict. We are all human and conflict is a part of our lives! Teaching students conflict resolution is one of my absolute favorite parts of being a school counselor; it’s fun and it has a huge impact. **Your students need conflict resolution skills now, next year, and for their whole lives.** ### Classroom Guidance Lessons One of the best ways to teach conflict resolution skills is to do just that – teach it! In an ideal world, you will have time in your guidance map to teach each class a whole unit on conflict resolution, tailored to your population’s needs. Here are a few conflict resolution unit ideas: ![conflict resolution lessons](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/conflict-units-300x157.jpg) Whether you’re doing a [multi-skill unit](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Conflict-Resolution-Curriculum-for-Lower-Elementary-4191661) with the younger grades, focusing on [anti-bullying](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Conflict-Resolution-Lesson-Plan-Resources-Bundle-3317936) with the middle grades, or diving into [types of communication](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Assertiveness-Lesson-Plan-Mouse-Monster-and-Me-3797218) with the “big kids”, the key to effectively teaching them the skills they need is to include lots of opportunity for **modeling and practice**. You model, they discuss, student models, the class discusses, then they all practice in pairs or groups. For example, if we’re learning about how to ignore, we talk in detail about what this looks like and I show them how to ignore with their eyes, ears, mouths, and brains. Then we’ll go to a new conflict example and I’ll have a couple of students role play, asking for a volunteer to share what they saw their peers do. Finally, they’ll practice the skill of ignoring in small groups as I walk around and “bug” them. ![teaching how to ignore](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Ignore-Presentation-300x169.jpg) As much as I love the unit approach to teaching conflict resolution (or any other meaty concept), I know some counselors are only able to teach ONE lesson all year about conflict resolution. When this is the case, I think the most impactful skill for our students to learn is the [I-statement](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/I-Message-No-Prep-Conflict-Resolution-PowerPoint-Lesson-Plan-3428748)! My schools have seen huge improvements in class culture after this skill was taught (and practiced). ![Teaching students conflict resolution with i-statements](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/TIO-Poster-e1553956332501-300x232.jpg) ### Supports for Teachers and Classrooms ![classroom conflict strategies](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/ACS_0817-e1553956463129-296x300.jpg)While great work happens in these lessons, we can contribute to our students’ peaceful problem-solving skills in other ways as well. One way to do this is through providing or posting visuals that teachers and students can refer to over and over again, like peaceful problem-solving options and conflict resolution sentence stems. Visuals are great in classrooms as well as common areas like the cafeteria and hallways. I find that kiddos also really benefit from talking through lots of different conflict scenarios. In classrooms that are really struggling with getting along, I give my teachers a set of [conflict resolution task cards](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Conflict-Resolution-Task-Cards-2852696) to use a few at a time during morning meeting. If they’re needing help with [quality apologies](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Apology-Activities-2803246), I give the teacher practice cards for those as well. I find that managing conflict is something teachers *hate* spending time doing so they’re invested in helping to proactively reinforce the skills! ### In Vivo Coaching and Modeling Conflict happens *everywhere* and I believe the best learning happens in context. There are opportunities to coach and model conflict resolution every day, all over your school. Here are some examples: - In class lessons when students are working in small groups, conflict will pop up. This is the ideal time to coach them through sticky situations. Sit with them and help them listen to one another’s ideas, take turns, share materials, and disagree respectfully. - Walking around the building, I often hear kiddos using really rude voices and words to make an important point. A quick “Please try that again more respectfully.” allows for a safe redo. - Even with your best [classroom management strategies](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/05/5-classroom-management-strategies-school-counselors/), students will still sometimes make bad choices. This your chance to model using an I-message to share how you feel (“I feel frustrated when you interrupt me when I’m giving directions. Could you please wait until a better time to talk to your friends?”) ### Mediation Another way I teach conflict resolution to my students is through mediations using [restorative justice practices](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/17/restorative-justice-practices/). Especially in Spring time, I have lots of students self-referring due to conflict with one another. While I can often coach them through it and help them see their options, other times call for bringing both (or all!) parties together in my office. I have them sit face-to-face (for a twosome) or circle up if it’s a group. What happens next depends on the developmental level and comfort level of the students. Sometimes I pull out my talking stick, briefly explain it’s history and purpose, hand it to one of the students, and let them roll with it. While the goal is always for it to be as student-directed as possible, many of my students need significant coaching through the process. It’s intimidating to be assertive! This can look like me summarizing each side (especially if I’ve talked to the parties individually ahead of time), providing them with I-message and apology sentence stems, or helping them to see the others’ perspective and emotions. [![talking stick for mediations](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/IMG_2787-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/teaching-conflict-resolution/img_2787/) talking stick for mediations [![mediation visual](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/ACS_0818-300x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/teaching-conflict-resolution/acs_0818/) mediation visual [![restorative circle](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/ACS_0819-237x300.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/teaching-conflict-resolution/acs_0819/) restorative circle ### What about you – how do you teach conflict resolution to your students? ![Teaching Students Conflict Resolution](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Pinterest-Image-683x1024.jpg) **Categories:** Class Lessons **Tags:** conflict resolution --- ### [Fidgets are Tools, Not Toys](https://confidentcounselors.com/fidgets-are-tools-not-toys/) **Published:** March 26, 2019 **Author:** The Counseling Teacher Brandy **Content:** After fidget spinners came on the scene, teachers began [banning self-regulation tools](https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/ct-fidget-toys-school-ban-met-20170429-story.html) from the classroom. Students misused them and teachers weren’t prepared for them. These tools get a bad rap when not used properly. Without clear usage rules, they can be a disaster and a distraction. With an effective management plan, using fidget tools in the classroom increases focus and calms students. They can work FOR you, rather than against you and your behavior management efforts. I think you will find that fidgets are for everyone, not just those with sensory processing needs. ### Suggested Rules for Managing Fidgets - Keep tools on the desk. - Do not throw tools. - No chewing tools or putting in mouth. - Don’t share your fidget with others. - Use quietly. Students will fidget at their desks with or without fidget tools. They chew their pencils, take the wire out of their spirals, fold paper, tap their feet on the chair legs, spin their rulers and do all kinds of interesting things to their school supplies. Fidget tools provide an appropriate outlet for students with established rules to keep distractions at bay. ### 9 Types of Regulation Tools for the Classroom ![fidget tools in the classroom](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Empower-Students-to-Report-Bullying-8-1024x1024.jpg) ### Squeezables Students love to squeeze things. The squeezing and releasing of muscles relieves stress and calms the student. Examples include stress balls, pool noodle slices, and any small object that fits in the hand. ### Mindful Manipulatives Some tools are simple and don’t take a lot of thought to complete. Examples of these relaxing tools include fidget cubes, tangents, pipe cleaners, and sand trays. ### Sounds Soothing sounds can calm a student immediately. Music has amazing calming effects on our bodies. Examples of things to include are sound machines with spa music or nature sounds and headphones connected to soothing music. ### Brain Stimulation Focusing on a brain teaser can be just enough distraction to soothe the brain and rid it of other more unpleasant distractions. Examples include a Rubic’s cube, puzzles, task cards and riddles. ### Creative Outlets The act of creating something is very calming. Try out journals, coloring books, sketch pads, clay and any other craft. ### Visual Stimulation Watching things move and change is satisfying. Slow moving objects are very calming. Examples include glitter jars, liquid timers, sand timers, and a slinky. ### Stretchy Things There’s just something soothing about pulling on something and watching it return to it’s original shape. Examples include a rubber ball, stretchy bands, gummy worms, and other stretchy toys. ### Tactile Stimulation Unexpected surfaces and interesting textures are pleasing to the hand and provide calming satisfaction. Examples of fun things to touch include “mermaid” pillows, bubble wrap, soft pillows, sand trays, slime and any bumpy toys. ### Breathing Focused breathing brings in the oxygen we need for improved concentration, better memory, and focus. Examples include visual cards with breathing tips, bubbles, a kazoo, party blower, and pinwheels. Try a free breathing activity sheet for grades [1-3](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mindfulness-Journal-Week-of-Free-Bell-Ringers-4411082) and [4-8](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mindset-Bell-Ringer-Journal-FREE-WEEK-4209319). ![Breathing activities for kids](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Empower-Students-to-Report-Bullying-6.jpg "Guided Breathing Sheets") You might be overwhelmed with this list and not sure if you are ready to add these tools in the classroom. My advice would be to start small. Choose one fidget tool and establish clear rules that work for you and your students. Decide if you want to let every student use them or just a few at a time. Figure out when they will be allowed and for how long. Once you decide what you can live with, you can expand and add more. Another way to do this is to set up a calm down corner in the classroom. This allows tools in the classroom without bringing them to the desks. [Read more](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/04/creating-a-calm-corner/) about setting up your calm down corner from Laura of Social Emotional Workshop. **Comment below** with how you have gotten fidgets and other self-regulation tools to work in your school. ![Fidgets are tools not toys](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Empower-Students-to-Report-Bullying-5.jpg "Fidget Tools in the Classroom") **Categories:** Behavior, Teachers **Tags:** sensory tools --- ### [Get Started with School Counseling Book Clubs](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-book-clubs/) **Published:** April 10, 2019 **Author:** Pawsitive School Counselor **Content:** School counseling book clubs in elementary school are some of my favorite twists on a classic small group counseling. I love sharing a good book, watching students make connections to the characters, seeing first hand my students reading and comprehension levels, and helping them improve their reading. Books clubs provide wonderful opportunities for you to combine social-emotional, academic, and career standards. ### 5 Tips for a Successful Book Club #### When choosing a book, think about what connections your students can make. I often work with our ELL students in book clubs and we read [Save Me A Seat](https://amzn.to/2WQhiBI) by Sarah Weeks. When Ravi, a new student from India moves to school he struggles to navigate middle school and quickly tries to befriend the school bully. Joe, a student with APD, is struggling with his own middle school woes – his mom is a cafeteria worker. There are so many opportunities for ELL students , new students, and students with special needs to make connections. [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0545846609&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US)](https://www.amazon.com/Save-Me-Seat-Sarah-Weeks/dp/0545846609/ref=as_li_ss_il?crid=HR5FSP3ONVQG&keywords=save+me+a+seat+by+sarah+weeks&qid=1554491367&s=gateway&sprefix=save+me+a+seat,aps,135&sr=8-1&linkCode=li3&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=fcc9b8f96f5b1155c21bfcc3bd035286&language=en_US)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=0545846609) #### Consider how many sessions your group will meet. Chapters books are great, but consider asking how long will it take to finish the book. When I use chapter books I have to plan for several months and sometimes even a semester of sessions, due to the length of the book, sessions, and time it takes us to reflect and connect. I also account for a few minutes at the start of our club to review what we read last time. Consider creating a group routine to help you manage your time if you are using longer chapter books. During April and May, I use [American Girl’s Guide To Startin​​g Middle School ](https://amzn.to/2WLaK7a)for a much shorter book club. I let the students pick a chapter at the start (or end) of each session that they want to read and discuss. Allowing them to focus on what is personally meaningful means I can conduct a much shorter small group than if we read the entire book. [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1609584066&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US)](https://www.amazon.com/Smart-Girls-Guide-Everything-Juggling/dp/1609584066/ref=as_li_ss_il?keywords=American+girls+guide+to+starting+middle+school&qid=1554489742&s=books&sr=1-1&linkCode=li3&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=aa6fccbf1650ab1fe7e1a2c5f97da2cd&language=en_US)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=1609584066) #### Think about when is the best time to meet. I do a lot of lunch bunch groups, which we all know is a struggle. Eating, reading, following along, discussing, wait are you eating? It’s a lot to juggle. Since our book clubs have a reading/academic focus I’ve been able to get buy-in from teachers to use other times of the day. For example, during our intervention time is a great time to pull students who don’t receive a specific tiered service. If you are struggling for time, consider a less formal book club with more of a class feel. In years past I have invited my fourth and fifth grade girls to a girls only book club. We either met in my room or I borrowed a teachers classroom during lunch and read [An American Girl: Chrissa S​​tands Strong](https://amzn.to/2VrRdsm). I read aloud from my copy as they ate and we found times to “turn and talk” to make connections and share opinions. At the end of the book we celebrated by watching the movie. [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1593695675&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US)](https://www.amazon.com/Chrissa-Stands-Strong-American-Today/dp/1593695675/ref=as_li_ss_il?keywords=an+american+girl+chrissa+stands+strong&qid=1554489967&s=books&sr=1-1-catcorr&linkCode=li3&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=b82de1a58b3d4905fea03c9b280bb8a0&language=en_US)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=1593695675) #### Ask your librarian about class book sets. In several schools I have discovered a “book room” filled with class sets of books collecting dust. So often the titles are classics and applicable to my students. Often the teachers don’t have time to use the books or they have also moved on to a newer title, but the books are still relevant and ready to be used. Ask your librarian what happens to old class sets at the end of the year and see if you can check out or become the owner of a few. #### Get rid of the paper. There are some amazing book study guides online and I used to use them all the time. As much as I loved having some great data and activities to show their comprehension and connections, I found that not only did doing paper activities eat away at our time, but the students didn’t enjoy the group as much. Seeing me is a time in their day when they can finally put down their pencils, so now we focus on games and discussions. You can still find wonderful discussion guides online, like this one for [The Hundred Dresses.](https://witsprogram.ca/pdfs/schools/books/the-hundred-dresses/the-hundred-dresses.pdf) [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0152051708&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US)](https://www.amazon.com/Hundred-Dresses-Eleanor-Estes/dp/0152051708/ref=as_li_ss_il?crid=PDSS1Q4Z64JZ&keywords=the+hundred+dresses&qid=1554490386&s=books&sprefix=The+hundred+,stripbooks,128&sr=1-1&linkCode=li3&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=74746f5a74c930a21fae8b3e721a5f21&language=en_US)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=0152051708) ### Need a Good Book? #### These are my favorites by topic! *These are affiliate links. We receive a small commission that goes to helping us run the site.​* #### Relational Aggression, Bullying, Relationships - [The Hundred Dresses](https://amzn.to/2I0JXQV) by Eleanor Estes - [An American Girl: Chrissa Stands Strong](https://amzn.to/2WLaK7a) by Mary Casanova - [Bullies are a Pain](https://amzn.to/2I12U62) in the Brain by Trevor Romain - [Cliques, Phones, and Other Baloney](https://amzn.to/2YQFWng) by Trevor Romain - [Restart](https://amzn.to/2FZ25aG) by Gordon Korman - [There’s a Boy in the Girl’s Bathroom](https://amzn.to/2I1WtzJ) by Louis Sachar - [A Smart Girl’s Guide: Drama, Rumors, and Secrets](https://amzn.to/2FWNdth) by Nancy Holyoke - [A Smart Girl’s Guide: Friendship Trouble](https://amzn.to/2uQ63gm) by Patti Kelley Criswell #### Middle School Transition - [American Girl’s Guide to Starting Middle School](https://amzn.to/2WLaK7a) by Julie Williams Montalbano #### Special Populations - [Save Me a Seat](https://amzn.to/2WRDfQP) by Sarah Weeks - [Fish in a Tree](https://amzn.to/2uQ6MOC) by Lynda Mullaly Hunt #### Academic - [How to Do Homework without Throwing Up](https://amzn.to/2uPbDQk) by Trevor Romain - [The Homework Machine](https://amzn.to/2IdQVBy) by Dan Gutman #### Stress - [Stress Can Really Get on your Nerves](https://amzn.to/2Uh2Plj) by Trevor Romain #### Grief - [What on Earth to do When Someone Dies](https://amzn.to/2IgXtiS) by Trevor Romain Need more book recommendations? Keep checking back at[ Pa](https://pawsitiveschoolcounselor.wordpress.com/)[ws-itive School Counseling](https://pawsitiveschoolcounselor.wordpress.com/) as I update titles. **Pin this post for later!** ![5 ways tips for starting a book club as an elementary school counselor. Laura from Pawsitive School Counselor has 5 ways to get started with book clubs and perfect book suggestions.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/1.jpg "Books clubs in elementary school") **Categories:** Group Counseling **Tags:** book recommendations --- ### [Mindfulness with Middles: Teaching Teens to Practice Mindfulness](https://confidentcounselors.com/middle-school-mindfulness-activities/) **Published:** April 16, 2019 **Author:** Counselor Keri **Content:** Mindfulness with middle schoolers: a piece of cake or labor of love? I’ve had loads of fun teaching mindfulness to elementary-aged students, but when I first threw out the idea to some of my middle schoolers, they looked at me like I had three heads. I knew that buy-in would be a little tougher with this age group (but totally worth the effort). Keep reading to find out how I hooked my students’ interest and the [middle school mindfulness activities](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-activities-27-mindfulness-exercises-for-mindful-mornings-activities) that my students *actually* enjoyed. ## Middle School Mindfulness Activities ### Buy-In We know adolescents need mindfulness, but how do we get them engaged? How do we get buy-in? Elementary students jump at the chance to breathe like a butterfly or do a silly animal-themed yoga activity. But middle schoolers aren’t always the easiest to engage! One thing is reliable, though: adolescents love to know *why*. Why are we doing this? Why does this matter? #### Problem List When introducing the concept of mindfulness, I begin by having my students create a problem list. What are their stressors? What are the things causing turmoil in their lives right now? I ask them to be as specific as possible. Is it just homework in general or one specific assignment? What about that assignment is troubling? Is it hard to complete a project that large? Is it hard to work in a group? We go on like this for a while. As you can imagine, this list is often long! Students identify problems like interpersonal conflict, feeling stressed by schoolwork, being overwhelmed by responsibilities and extracurricular activities, feeling like they don’t fit it, and the list goes on. ![Looking for middle school mindfulness activities that adolescents and teens actually enjoy? Read more about activities my class loves and how I got buy in!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Middle-Mindfulness-8.png) #### Possible Solutions Then, I challenge students to think of or find one solution that could help tackle all of the problems on the list. Students do a bit of research using iPads. We spend a lesson or session doing this task and the students report their findings which often range from silly things like quitting school to thoughtful responses like seeking therapy. At this point, I introduce the concept of mindfulness, but I don’t just tell students what it is and tell them that it will help. I [show them the research](https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/topic/mindfulness/definition#why-practice-mindfulness). I show them studies about how mindfulness improves memory and attention, lowers stress levels, increases happiness, and promotes social connections and altruism. Then I give them the studies to review and then give them space to research it on their own for a few minutes. When they are given the opportunity to review actual research and see facts and figures from studies, adolescents are much more like to buy in to the process because *they can see the why* behind it. When they can see studies that have been done with people their own ages who have benefitted from the practice, adolescents are more likely to be willing to give it a try themselves. ### Getting Started After I have some buy-in and have piqued their interest in this seemingly magical practice that can address a whole host of problems they have identified in their lives, we start small. Adolescents already feel like they’re on a stage in front of their peers at all times, so we don’t start with a tricky yoga sequence or a 30-minute guided meditation because that’s a sure way to discourage participation! We start with simple, [2-3 minute seated breathing exercises](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-activities-27-mindfulness-exercises-for-mindful-mornings-activities) using tracing printables so that students can focus their attention on just what they’re doing and not worry about meeting eyes with others during the process. As students gain comfort with short, simple exercises, we try [longer activities](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-activities-27-mindfulness-exercises-for-mindful-mornings-activities) and different types of mindfulness exercises. We also repeat activities. Students like to try again. They like to get better, practice, and feel like they’ve grown or accomplished something. ### Breathing Exercises Much of mindfulness hinges on slowing and controlling breathing to truly tune in to the body. To introduce breathing exercises, I first model controlled breathing on my own in front of everyone. When we have the technology available, I also let students practice using iPads and headphones with the Calm app. There are some great free activities students can do on their own without feeling like they’re on a stage. I also give students [printables to trace](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-activities-27-mindfulness-exercises-for-mindful-mornings-activities) while they practice controlling their breathing using [figure 8 breathing](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-activities-27-mindfulness-exercises-for-mindful-mornings-activities), [rainbow breathing](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-activities-27-mindfulness-exercises-for-mindful-mornings-activities), and [star breathing](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-activities-27-mindfulness-exercises-for-mindful-mornings-activities) to get the hang of it. Many of my students end up taping these printables inside their notebooks to use throughout the day. [![Looking for middle school mindfulness activities that adolescents and teens actually enjoy? Read more about activities my class loves and how I got buy in!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Middle-Mindfulness-6.png)](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-activities-27-mindfulness-exercises-for-mindful-mornings-activities) If sitting in the classroom doing this is uncomfortable for your students, take them outside to practice! Give them pinwheels or bubbles (middle schoolers go wild for these things too) to practice deep inhales and slow exhales. ### Meditation Activities When we have some comfort with breathing exercises, I introduce [short guided meditation activities](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-activities-27-mindfulness-exercises-for-mindful-mornings-activities). I like to first start with recorded meditations so students can use headphones to listen. This takes off some of the social focus so they’re less worried about if others are looking at them. After they practice this way, I do read some guided meditation activities to help them notice their bodies, recognize feelings about certain events, or pinpoint sensations and emotions tied to certain experiences or memories. Again, I keep these short to ease them in! They’re less likely to give up if the newness is quick in the beginning. ![Looking for middle school mindfulness activities that adolescents and teens actually enjoy? Read more about activities my class loves and how I got buy in!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Middle-Mindfulness-10.png) ### Active Mindfulness If seated breathing and meditation isn’t doing it for your students, don’t be afraid to try active mindfulness exercises! Tuning in doesn’t have to be accomplished in a seat. These [active mindfulness activities](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-activities-27-mindfulness-exercises-for-mindful-mornings-activities) were really the sweet spot for my middle schoolers when they started to say they really enjoyed our mindful time! Head outside for some of these activities: #### Go for a Nature Walk Take your students on a [nature walk](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-activities-27-mindfulness-exercises-for-mindful-mornings-activities). Remind them that they should not talk during the activity because you’ll give them cues throughout. Guide them through noticing things they see, what they smell, things they hear, and their own sensations and emotions as you walk. Once your students have the hang of this practice (it *does* take practice), they’ll be able to do this for longer periods of time without the cues. #### Work in a Garden If you have a school garden or have the space to create even a small plot, do a gardening exercise. Let students sink their hands into the soil and help them notice the sensations they experience during the activity. They can also tune into smells and sounds while working in the garden. ![Looking for middle school mindfulness activities that adolescents and teens actually enjoy? Read more about activities my class loves and how I got buy in!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Middle-Mindfulness-1.png) #### Directed Painting Grab some cardstock, watercolors, brushes, and straws for a guided painting activity. Students will use the brushes to drop paint on the paper and then will use the straws to blow the paint on the paper (hello, breathing exercise!). Cue students to choose colors that represent the emotions they notice in their bodies now and to notice their sensations as they watch the paint move on the paper. Students can even put these creations in $1 frames to keep as a reminder to pause and notice. [![Looking for middle school mindfulness activities that adolescents and teens actually enjoy? Read more about activities my class loves and how I got buy in!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Middle-Mindfulness-4.png)](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-activities-27-mindfulness-exercises-for-mindful-mornings-activities) #### Yoga Activities If your students are up for a challenge, introduce them to yoga (call it focused stretching if your school requires – the benefits are the same!). Yoga can sound scary and intimidating to adolescents, especially if they have preconceived notions of what yoga is or what it requires. Start with [simple poses](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-activities-27-mindfulness-exercises-for-mindful-mornings-activities) and talk them through the whole process – nothing creates awkwardness for adolescents quite like silence and a chair pose. [![Looking for middle school mindfulness activities that adolescents and teens actually enjoy? Read more about activities my class loves and how I got buy in!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Middle-Mindfulness-7.png)](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-activities-27-mindfulness-exercises-for-mindful-mornings-activities) If yoga isn’t something you’re totally comfortable with yourself, use videos from certified instructors or attend a training yourself! I recently completed a [certification with YogaEd](https://academy.yogaed.com/) that was fantastic. I learned all about proper flow and sequence and some helpful strategies for dispelling the awkward cloud in the air. As with the other mindfulness exercises, start small. Do a 5-minute activity just to introduce students and show them they can actually do yoga. ## Middle School Mindfulness Activities If you’re looking to incorporate [more mindfulness exercises](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-activities-27-mindfulness-exercises-for-mindful-mornings-activities) into your middle school counseling toolbox, start slowly and small! Give them space to explore how mindfulness can actually benefit them. Use short, 5-minute or fewer activities to give them opportunities for success and to pique their interest. You don’t have to spend a whole, 30-45 minute lesson doing one activity! Mindfulness can easily be used as a warm up or wrap up to any classroom guidance or small group activity. Introduce your students to a wide variety of mindfulness exercises so they can find their perfect fit, whether it’s simple breathing, meditation, or more active practices. ## Let us know How do you get buy-in with your students when it comes to mindfulness? What are your favorite [middle school mindfulness activities](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-activities-27-mindfulness-exercises-for-mindful-mornings-activities)? Fill us in below in the comments section! [![Looking for middle school mindfulness activities that adolescents and teens actually enjoy? Read more about activities my class loves and how I got buy in!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Middle-Mindfulness-11.png)](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-activities-27-mindfulness-exercises-for-mindful-mornings-activities) ![Looking for middle school mindfulness activities for your classroom guidance lessons or small group counseling sessions? Get your students excited about mindfulness by getting buy-in and doing breathing exercises, guided meditation activities, and active mindfulness exercises like yoga, senses observations, and more. The mindful moments are great for school counseling, morning meeting, or any time when you want to build a mindful practice with your adolescents and teens.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Copy-of-Middle-Mindfulness.png) **Categories:** Class Lessons, Popular Posts **Tags:** Middle School, mindfulness --- ### [Keeping Individual School Counseling Short-Term](https://confidentcounselors.com/individual-school-counseling-short-term/) **Published:** April 29, 2019 **Author:** Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop **Content:** As a school counselor or other mental health provider in a school, you rarely have the resources to see students in individual counseling long-term. You also might not be trained to handle more chronic psychological disorders. This is why ASCA recommends that you only use individual school counseling short-term as a responsive service for acute difficulties. That said, I also wouldn’t be surprised if many of you had a student on your caseload for an entire school year with no end in sight. Or students who you thought would be short-term and the issues are school-based, but the progress is slow as a snail. So how do we keep individual counseling **short term and effective**? I have one thing to stop doing and 6 things to try. ### Don’t Set Arbitrary Limits ASCA doesn’t tell you to only see a student for 6 sessions or 12 sessions and then stop. They want you to setup systems that let you provide support to as many students as possible. Individual counseling is a time intensive service that quickly limits the number of students that can be seen. It is also a necessity for some students. So we have to be thoughtful and purposeful, not rigid about how we use it. Instead of having a set (arbitrary) number of sessions, think about the goals the student needs to meet, what services are best to get the student there, and how long it would take. Sometimes, I worry that we have a specific number of sessions in mind without a clear plan, the student doesn’t make progress, and then we say we “don’t do long-term counseling”. Counseling is not the same as reading intervention, but I think we are more effective as school-based practitioners when our approach is more similar to a reading specialist than a clinical psychologist. ### Goal Focused From Start to Finish One of the goals of counseling, particularly if you use a brief solution-focused approach or a cognitive-behavioral approach, is to teach the student the skills to be their own counselor and to do that over a short time. We want them to have the skills and knowledge to manage whatever situations they find themselves in. In short-term individual counseling, make clear to the student that that is the goal from the beginning. **They are learning skills to manage situations on their own**, just like if they needed to learn strategies to become a better reader. Once students understand that we are meeting for a finite amount of time and we have a singular goal (them being their own counselor), we can get into specifics. I take a big, specific goal (e.g., learning to handle disappointment without getting really angry), and break that into smaller skills. What does this student have to be able to do to learn how to handle that situation on their own? I share with the student what we are going to work on and how long I think it will take. Keeping them in the loop keeps them motivated and focused on their progess. ### Backwards Planning If the student’s needs are a good fit for short-term individual school counseling services, **create a structured and focused plan for your sessions**. If you don’t have the bandwidth for long-term counseling, then you definitely don’t have the time for chatty check-ins Teachers regularly use backwards planning when creating their lessons and curriculum, and it’s something we should steal adopt. 1. Start with a big goal 2. List the specific skills needed to achieve that big goal. 3. Then create tasks where the student can show those specific skills. 4. Finally, create activities that help the student learn those specific skills. We don’t want to start with the activities because not everything labeled anger management is going to meet your students needs and we are on a tight schedule. 🙂 ### Use Routines and Templates Now, I’m over here telling you to create structured plans and assessments for individual counseling. Meanwhile, you are telling me “I didn’t eat lunch until 3pm today.” Cut down on the planning you have to do by using routines and reusable activities. #### Follow The Same Agenda Every single individual counseling session can follow the same agenda. The routines will save you time and keep you and the student focused. **Start collecting activities for each part of the session.** For example, have different [warm-up exercises](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/04/start-group-counseling-sessions/) and cool downs ready and pick the ones that relate to the student’s difficulties. Here is a sample agenda for each session. 1. [Feelings check-in](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Feelings-Check-In-and-Feelings-Posters-for-Counseling-and-SEL-2040322?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Short%20Term%20IC) 2. Warm-up exercise 3. Mini-lesson on specific skill 4. Guided activity to practice skill 5. Independent activity to show skill 6. Cool down exercise 7. Exit ticket (optional) ![Routines in Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/IMG_0509.jpg "Routines in Counseling") #### Reusable Templates I always used **reusable templates** in individual counseling. One template I found myself drawing over and over again were these “[decision maps](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/CBT-Problem-Solving-Maps-for-Individual-Counseling-and-Behavior-Intervention-2293296?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Short%20Term%20IC)” that broke down the decisions that a student made that led to a negative outcome. We would map out what they were thinking, feeling and doing. Then we would consider where we could have made a different decision and gotten a different outcome. Could you have asked for help instead of putting your head on the desk? Could you have used a strategy like positive self-talk to change how you felt about the frustrating work? I’d also use these to help them when they knew a difficult situation was coming up. [![Decision Maps for problem solving in individual counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/IMG_0130-2.jpg "SEW Decision Maps")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/CBT-Problem-Solving-Maps-for-Individual-Counseling-and-Behavior-Intervention-2293296?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Short%20Term%20IC) ### Collaborate with Teachers and Parents Studies of short-term cognitive behavioral therapy show that involving parents in carrying over strategies improves the success rates and long-term change dramatically. Teachers are also ideal partners to help carry over strategies and make changes permanent. If they can see a clear map to an end goal, they are more likely to stick with supporting the student. - Try sending home weekly summaries of what the student has done in counseling. Keep them short and sweet with **one strategy that can be prompted** in the classroom or at home. - Make the student’s exit ticket from counseling each week to jot down what strategy they are going to use that week. Then **take a picture and send it** to their teacher and parent. ### Refer Out Now is this looking like a much more intensive service and less skill-based? Then consider an outside referral, a combination of school and outside services, or an eventual special education referral. This will all depend on your school and resources available. **Important** – If a student is struggling and it’s preventing them from accessing their education, it is still the school’s responsibility to support them. As a counselor with limited resources, you can advocate for additional providers to meet that obligation. Just because you don’t have the availability doesn’t mean the student isn’t entitled to the service. Make sure your administration understands how much you can take on, and what your program is for and not for. #### Working with Outside Providers Coordination and communication with outside providers is essential and frequently difficult. **Work on a directory of community-based service providers** that you can refer parents to and also are easy to work with. I made it clear to therapists that I would like to recommend them to other families. This usually helps with their availability. I also check in with parents to see if they would be willing to talk with a parent looking for a therapist. Keep a record of which student sees which therapist. Then schedule a monthly check-in with that therapist and get a release of information from parents. You can also offer to have the therapist come to the school to do a parent workshop. It strengthens your connection, provides a service to the community, and also helps a therapist find new clients. ### Combine Services Consider tagging individual counseling onto group services for students who need a bit more. Instead of meeting every week for 30 minutes, have an individual session once a month. Sometimes, I would have a group with 5 or 6 students and I’d see two of those students for individual sessions 1x/mo. If the scheduling gods were feeling kind, I would be able to schedule four students a month for 1x/mo individual counseling to reinforce and practice what we had been doing in group counseling. **How can you keep your individual school counseling short-term while also being effective and goal driven?** ![Keeping individual counseling short term as a school counselor with these 6 tips. Stop being rigid about how many sessions and start putting student goals at the center of individual counseling.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Pinterest-Short-Term-IC-CC.jpg "individual counseling short term") **Categories:** Individual Counseling, Popular Posts **Tags:** individual counseling --- ### [Building Positive Thinking In Students](https://confidentcounselors.com/building-positive-thinking/) **Published:** April 22, 2019 **Author:** Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop, EduKate & Inspire and The Responsive Counselor **Content:** Positive thinking can be the difference between a student persisting with a challenging activity and stopping too soon. As counselors, we can directly work on building a student’s positive thinking, and give them the skills to be resilient when faced with challenges. ### Identify & Replace Negative Thinking I focus on two things when building a student’s positive (realistic) thinking. One, emphasize that negative thinking is normal and everyone has negative thoughts. Two, we can learn a way to kick those negative thoughts to the curb. I use a simple step-by-step CBT process. 1. Recognize 2. Challenge 3. Replace First students learn what a thought is, kinds of negative thoughts, and [practice **recognizing**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Negative-Thinking-Activities-to-Challenge-Negative-Self-Talk-1943643?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Convo%20Pos%20Thinking) them. Second, they learn ways to [**challenge** negative thoughts](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Challenging-Negative-Thinking-Activities-to-Build-Positive-Self-Talk-2030235?aref=gqnw9mnt&utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Convo%20Pos%20Thinking) to make sure they are based on facts. Last, they practice **replacing** them with more realistic, positive thoughts. We take each of these skills one at a time and then chain them together. This lets them get better and more confident with each step. For more detail, [check out this post](https://socialemotionalworkshop.com/2019/01/challenge-negative-thinking/) on challenging negative thinking. [![Changing your thinking poster](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/ACS_0310-2.jpg "CBT Poster")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Negative-Thinking-Activities-to-Challenge-Negative-Self-Talk-1943643?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Convo%20Pos%20Thinking)![Strategies to challenge negative thinking](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/IMG_6634-2.jpg "challenging negative thinking")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Insta-Logo.png "Insta Logo") ##### **Laura, Social Emotional Workshop** Visit [my TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SEW%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://socialemotionalworkshop.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/socialemotionalworkshop/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/SocialEmotionalWorkshop/)! ### Show How Thinking Affects Them One of the first things I do in this type of work with students is help the kiddos to understand the connection between their thoughts, their feelings, and their actions. Once they believe that their thoughts affect them, they’re more interested in changing their thoughts! We go through some different [stories ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/CBT-Stories-for-Teaching-CBT-to-Elementary-Students-3804862)together and talk through how different characters think, feel, and act in the same scenario. Then I want to get their minds thinking about different thoughts by showing them tons of [examples](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/CBT-Thought-Cards-and-Activities-for-Positive-Thinking-2803291), sorting them between helpful vs. unhelpful, and then identifying which helpful thoughts they want to have more often. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Picture2.png "Sara Profile Pic") ##### ***Sara, The Responsive Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Responsive-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TRC%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](http://www.theresponsivecounselor.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/theresponsivecounselor/)! ### School Focus on Growth Mindset At my school, we have spent the past few years focusing on what it means to have a “growth mindset.” By teaching students that we can learn from our mistakes, we can begin to increase positive thinking. My staff has worked hard to incorporate the concept of having a growth mindset by using hands-on experiences with students. We have also worked on integrating children’s literature with a growth mindset focus into the classroom. Check out some of my favorite growth mindset resources and activities in [this post on my blog](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/2016/11/growth-mindset-resource-round-up.html). ![EduKate & Inspire](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/New-Logo.png "New Logo") ##### ***Kate, EduKate & Inspire*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=EduKate%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](http://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/edukateinspire/)! **How do you make positive thinking a habit for students?** ![improve student's positive thinking](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/9.png "Positive Thinking") **Categories:** Counseling, Counselor Chats **Tags:** anxiety, CC tips, EduKate & Inspire, positive thinking, Social Emotional Workshop, The Responsive Counselor --- ### [How do you get parents involved?](https://confidentcounselors.com/get-parents-involved/) **Published:** April 24, 2019 **Author:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials, Counselor Up and Pawsitive School Counselor and 1 more **Content:** Involving parents in your school counseling program and in the school in general can often get overlooked. I remember the story of a principal who had a student absentee problem. When she dug deeper, she realized that students were missing school because they didn’t have clean uniforms. So, she at her parent nights, she had a local laundromat wash uniforms. She also provided babysitting services during the event. These Confident Counselors have some more creative ideas to get parents involved and comfortable in their school community. ### No pressure book clubs I love [no pressure book clubs](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/its-a-wrap-low-pressure-parent-book-club)! I work with my PTA to purchase books that will eventually live in the library for check out. I encourage parents to read the book but I also provide a short summary each book club meeting so that parents can participate even if they don’t have time to read the book. One of my favorites is [The Whole Brain Child](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/ParentStaff-Book-Club-Whole-Brain-Child-1815262) by Dan Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Picture1.png "Counselor Up") ##### **Rebecca, Counselor Up** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Counselor-Up?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=CUp%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://www.counselorup.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/counselorupblog/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/counselorup/)! ### Create a safe space with needed events I’ve found the best way to engage parents is to get them into the school and show them that school is a positive and safe place to be. My most reluctant parents are the ones who did not have the most positive school experiences, so it’s important to let them know that it’s not the same for their child. I try to do this by offering programs that can help. Our Clothing Swaps really helped. We asked for donations starting 2 months before the event and then started to sort by size and type (e.g., pants, skirts, shirts, outerwear) so it was easy to display the night of the big event. When advertising, I made sure to emphasize how swapping clothes was good for the environment and I invited families who were needing of clothes as well as who did not. I also employed student helpers to work as personal shopping assistants. We worked hard to break the stigma of the event being solely for people with need and truly made it a community event. It was great to see everyone getting along, picking out clothes and “shopping” and it really helped to show parents how hard we worked to make everyone feel included. ![The Middle School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/carol-miller.jpg "Carol Miller") ##### ***Carol Miller, The Middle School Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Carol-Miller-the-Middle-School-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TMSC%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://www.themiddleschoolcounselor.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/themiddleschoolcounselor/) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/themiddleschoolcounselor/)! ### Make Monthly Newsletters Personal Sending out monthly newsletters that are personal! The other day I needed to call a parent and when I said who was calling she replied “oh you send out all that information with the pictures of the dogs!” Sometimes I wonder if parents really read my newsletters, but this gave me hope. In each newsletter I try to include: what we are doing in class, discipline tips, important dates, book recommendations, and of course pictures of my dogs. 🙂 ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Laura-Filtness-Logo.jpg "Laura Filtness Logo") ##### ***Laura, The Paws-itive School Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Paws-itive-School-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TPSC%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://pawsitiveschoolcounselor.wordpress.com/blog/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/pawsitiveschoolcounselor/)! ### Keep Them In The Loop The best way I have found to engage parents is to keep them informed about the skills I am working on with students. We use Class Dojo school-wide, so about 85% of our parents are connected on the platform. Each time I present a classroom lesson, I take a quick photo of lesson materials and write a description about the skills we worked on in the lesson. I post the photo and description on the teacher’s Class Dojo Story page. I’ve gotten a lot of great feedback from parents about these posts! Another easy way that I engage parents is by providing them with easy tools they can use at home. During parent-teacher conferences, I set up a table in the main hallway and provide helpful resources that parents can take to utilize at home. A favorite resource that I share with parents is a list of [25 Ways to Ask a Child: How Was Your Day?](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/25-Ways-to-Ask-a-Child-How-Was-Your-Day-3425323) ![EduKate & Inspire](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/New-Logo.png "New Logo") ##### ***Kate, EduKate & Inspire*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Edukate-And-Inspire?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=EduKate%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/edukateinspire/)! **Share in the comments how you get parents engaged!** Read More: [What parents events have you hosted at school?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/19/parent-events/) ![tips and ideas for school counselors for getting parents engaged](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/10.png "Getting Parents engaged") **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Parents **Tags:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials, CC tips, Counselor Up, EduKate & Inspire, Paws-itive School Counselor --- ### [8 Healthy Friendship Qualities to Teach Students](https://confidentcounselors.com/healthy-friendship-qualities/) **Published:** July 31, 2019 **Author:** The Counseling Teacher Brandy **Content:** Cultivating healthy friendships amongst students is crucial for a positive learning environment. When students know the difference between healthy and unhealthy behaviors, they are able to modify their behavior. Encourage them to look inward as you review the qualities of a healthy friendship. Let’s take a look at 8 healthy friendship qualities that you can start teaching your students today. # 8 Healthy Friendship Qualities ### **Acceptance** A good friend accepts the uniqueness of their friend. They don’t try to change them. An unhealthy friend might continue to tell you how to dress, how to talk, how to act, or how to feel. ### **Active Listening** Healthy friends are active listeners who pay attention, ask questions, and are interested in what you have to say. The opposite would be that they pretend to listen just so they can have their turn to talk next. ### **Boundaries** Healthy friends set rules for how they expect to be treated. The rules are fair and have real meaning. For example, you might have specific things that you ask of others like not standing too close because you get nervous in crowds. Friends tell each other when a personal boundary is being crossed. If a rule is broken, a healthy friend will tell their friend and give them a second chance. An unhealthy friend wouldn’t care about your boundaries and might make fun of you for having them at all. ### **Compromise** Friends work together and sometimes give up a little of something they want so that everyone gets to win a little. Simply put, this is about sharing and taking turns. An unhealthy friend might try to be controlling and make all the rules to benefit them. ### **Forgiveness** A healthy friend forgives past mistakes and doesn’t keep bringing it up. An unhealthy behavior would be holding a grudge and making the friend feel bad about it again and again. ### **Respect** Healthy friends respect their friend as a unique individual with their own thoughts, wants and emotions. They respect their time, boundaries and feelings and they don’t question the importance of them. Respecting their privacy also includes not spreading rumors or telling others their private information. ### **Support** Healthy friends encourage you to go for your dreams. They cheer you on and are there when you need them even when it’s not convenient for them. ### **Trust** A quality friendship is based on trust. This means that it’s just expected that everyone is telling the truth. If you trust each other, jealousy is not an issue. You don’t need to control each other and you don’t mind if your friend has other friends. When there’s no trust, an unhealthy or toxic behavior might include trying to control the friend and setting limits on them. Once your students grasp what it takes to have healthy relationships, they will be ready to contribute to your cooperative learning groups. Read more [here](https://www.nymetroparents.com/article/How-Your-Children-s-Friends-Affect-Their-Grades) about how peer relationships have an impact on academic performance. Do you have any tips for improving student relationships in the classroom? Please share below. Don’t have time to create a lesson for your students? Check out the Friendship Escape Room [activity](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Friendship-Escape-Room-4623755). Your students will be chosen to complete a mission to stop the virus that is infecting friends around the world with toxic behaviors. ![8 healthy friendship qualities](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Copy-of-Teaching-Healthy-Friendship-Habits-200x300.jpg) **Categories:** Class Lessons **Tags:** friendship --- ### [Hosting A Social Emotional Learning Family Night](https://confidentcounselors.com/hosting-a-social-emotional-learning-family-night/) **Published:** August 6, 2019 **Author:** Counselor Chelsey **Content:** As counselors, we know that parent engagement and involvement is important. We also know that it can be tricky to find ways to get parents involved in their child’s social-emotional learning. One way to help bridge this gap is by hosting a social-emotional learning family night. I have found that hosting a night like this is a great way to get students and their families excited about social-emotional learning topics. Another thing that makes a night like this powerful is that you can tailor the night to meet the specific needs of your school. Regardless of the topic and activities you choose, here are some tips to help you out! ## What To Do Before a Family Night ### Pick a Topic This is a great chance to advocate for social-emotional learning and to encourage SEL at home. Some examples of topics are Mindfulness, Coping Skills, Bullying Prevention or Friendship. If you have a character education theme of the month or year at your school, you could do a family night focused on that theme. ### Pick a Date When choosing a date, you will want to make sure that you consider other school events such as concerts and sports. ### Get Support Just like most things in education, collaboration is key! I have found it to be very helpful to work with the administration and the PTA to make the event a success. My administration has been helpful in advertising for the event, and the PTA has donated materials and sent volunteers to come to help the night of the event. ### Advertise Make sure you get the word out! This can be done in many ways – sending an e-mail to parents, sending home a flyer, posting flyers around the school, mentioning it to the parents you see or work with, and even using the sign in front of the school to remind families that the event is coming up. If you are able to provide incentives for families to come – such as dinner provided, something free for them to take home, etc., make sure you let them know! ![Creating a checklist of materials you need is a great way to stay organized before the event.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Screen-Shot-2019-08-03-at-2.34.59-PM.png)Creating a checklist of materials you need is a great way to stay organized before the event. ## The Set-Up of the Event If desired, you can start or end the night with a brief presentation about the topic. This can help set the stage for what they are learning about. This can be a PowerPoint presentation or even just an informal talk that you give. ### Stations During the event, I have found success with having stations that the families travel through together. The stations can have different information or activities to help families learn about, and practice, the topic you are covering. It works best when these are interactive and are something the families can participate in together. Letting families travel through the stations at their own pace, and in no particular order, is a great way to keep the flow going and to make sure the families are engaged at all times. Ideas include sorting activities, a snack, an art station, a reading station, etc. It can also be a great idea to involve any organizations that relate to your theme, such as the local library, a community involvement organization, etc. You can provide written instructions at each station, but it is also nice to have someone volunteering at the station to help families know what to do. This can be a PTA member, a staff member, or a volunteer. If you know older students looking for volunteer hours, this can be a great opportunity! ## After the Event One way to gauge how your event went is to have a short survey available that parents can fill out. This can be just a few short questions that won’t take long to answer. If you have the funds available, it is great to give the families something to take home to further enforce the SEL topic you have chosen. Examples include friendship bracelets, a book, or a poster to hang on the refrigerator. Doing this can set the parents up for success as they try to support their students’ social-emotional learning at home. Follow up with the kids who were at the event. During the week after the event, follow up with any students you see who were there. This can be a quick question in the hallway of what they enjoyed from the event, or asking how they are practicing the topic at home. ![Giving each family something to take home, like these mindfulness challenge cards, can help encourage SEL at home!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Screen-Shot-2019-08-03-at-9.15.46-PM.png)Giving each family something to take home, like these mindfulness challenge cards, can help encourage SEL at home! The great thing about these social-emotional learning nights is that you are giving the families an opportunity to spend time together while learning about a valuable topic. Taking time and effort to plan this event also communicates to the parents, staff, and students that social-emotional learning is important. If you like the idea of hosting a night like this, but don’t have the time to plan and organize it all, I have [materials for a family mindfulness night](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Social-Emotional-Learning-Family-Night-Mindfulness-Themed-4679381?utm_source=CCC&utm_campaign=Family%20Mindfulness%20Night) in my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Sellers-Im-Following/Add/Counselorchelsey). This mindfulness night has been the most successful family event, but I would love to hear which events have worked best for you! Drop a comment below and let me know. ![Use these tips to engage families in social emotional learning by hosting an SEL family night](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Picture1-683x1024.png) **Categories:** Advocacy, Parents **Tags:** events, social emotional learning --- ### [How do you know what to buy (and not buy) during Back to School?](https://confidentcounselors.com/how-do-you-know-what-to-buy-and-not-buy-during-back-to-school/) **Published:** August 13, 2019 **Author:** The Responsive Counselor and Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop **Content:** When the Back to School season arrives, it really arrives. Whether you are a newbie or a seasoned school counselor, the allure of new counseling resources is difficult to resist. So what should you buy and when should you be audibly telling yourself to put something down in Target? Just us? Check out some tips from Sara from The Responsive Counselor and Laura from Social Emotional Workshop and proceed through Back to School with a plan that’s right for you. ## Think Use & Think Long-Term It’s back to school season in our hearts, minds, and in ALL of the stores. I’m already a bit of a shopaholic and I’ll admit that when the end of July comes, I’m ready to buy #allthethings in hopes that they will all magically and drastically improve my counseling program. After moving offices two times in the last two years, I was hit in the face with the amount of items I bought (with my own money!) and then never used. Learn from my mistakes! Keep the following questions and ideas in mind as you shop: - **What are you going to use it for?** If you don’t have an answer for this, don’t buy it. “I’m sure I’ll use this!” is a lie we tell ourselves. - **Will I use it one time or throughout the year?** Props are super cool, but if you have a small space, they may not be worth it for a lesson you deliver to six classes and then don’t need it again. - **Target Dollar Spot Hits:** dry erase pockets, blank books, fidgets/sensory tools - **Other BTS Wins I’ve Bought:** Individual dry erase boards, comfy chairs ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Picture2.png "Sara Profile Pic") ##### ***Sara, The Responsive Counselor*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Responsive-Counselor?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=TRC%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](http://www.theresponsivecounselor.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/theresponsivecounselor/)! ## Need and Want Before you even walk into a store, browse on TPT, or open up a catalog with counseling tools, make a (short) list. This list is what you know you will need during the first 6 weeks of school. **Use your needs assessment**, think about new initiatives, and what you were sorely missing last year. Often my list did not include a $40 counseling game from a catalog, but the following: - **More fidgets**. Those things get gross! - **Supplies for crafts and projects**. Careful with this one, stick to the staples. A bag of feathers and tacky glue sat on my shelf mocking me for years. - One new **traditional game** that I could modify for counseling. - **Prize box items** for students. Not too many because you never know what is going to be the new favorite. - **Books related to school rules, recess, or** [**feelings**](https://socialemotionalworkshop.com/2019/08/lessons-and-books-about-feelings/). These are all things we covered in the first 6 weeks or before we covered anything else. After the first 6 weeks, make a want list. This list will now be based on the students in front of you, the comments from teachers, and conversations with admin. Try to get administration to fund some of these items. TPT has a new feature, [**ClassFund**](https://www.tptclassfund.com/), where PTAs, parents, admin, friends, family or community can donate to TPT resources for your counseling program. Definitely check that out for your after back to school want list. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Insta-Logo.png "Insta Logo") ##### ***Laura, Social Emotional Workshop*** Visit my [TPT store](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Social-Emotional-Workshop?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=SEW%20Author%20Box) and get counseling ideas on [my blog](https://socialemotionalworkshop.com/). Let’s connect on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/socialemotionalworkshop/)! **What are your back to school essentials?** Check out our [Ultimate School Counselor Supply List](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/08/16/school-counselor-office-essentials/) for other suggestions. ![How do you know what to buy and not buy during BTS ?](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/PINTEREST-_-CC-Convo-08.19-10.19-1.jpg "PINTEREST _ CC Convo 08.19-10.19 (1)") **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Counselor Role **Tags:** back to school, Social Emotional Workshop, supplies, The Responsive Counselor --- ### [Top 5 Digital Organization Tools for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counselor-digital-organization-tools/) **Published:** August 16, 2019 **Author:** EduKate & Inspire **Content:** Looking for new ways to organize your school counseling program? Kick your organization skills up a notch and go digital this year! Going digital helps you keep your resources “in the cloud” and allows you to access them both at school and at home. The following organization tools for school counselors will help you go digital as you organize your counseling resources, to do lists, counseling ideas, and more. Get ready for a productive and efficient school year with these school counselor organization tools! ## Google Keep Google Keep is a hidden gem that is located in every Google account. Think of Google Keep like digital sticky notes. You can name each note, add checkboxes, insert images, tag notes with labels, set reminders, color code, and more. Best of all, all of your notes are searchable, which makes it very easy to find what you are looking for. There are countless ways you could use Google Keep in counseling: - Organize students to check in with each week. - Keep track of parents or teachers you need to follow up with. - Collect classroom lesson ideas you find online. - Create a resource wishlist. - Create themed to do lists: Today, This Week, This Month. - Keep track of professional development experiences. If you want to make your Google Keep account even more organized, check out [this blog post](https://www.helloteacherlady.com/blog/2019/2/how-to-google-keep) from Hello, Teacher Lady to read more about creating custom headers for each Google Keep note. ![Google Keep for Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/School-Counseling-Dropbox-Folder-Ideas-copy-300x167.png) ## Google Drive Google Drive is one of the best places to create and store everything you need for your counseling program. Using Google Docs, Spreadsheets, and Presentations can simplify your counseling program because you can: - Easily share resources with your staff and counseling colleagues - Quickly edit docs from year to year - Link documents to one another within Drive Perhaps the best thing about using Google Drive for organization is that it provides free storage for all of your docs in the cloud–never lose a file again! Plus, you can easily search and find any doc you need. If you want to learn more about using Google Drive to organize your counseling life, check out this post about [Google Docs for School Counselors](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/2016/07/google-docs-for-school-counselors.html). You can also take your Google organization to the next level with a [Digital Counseling Binder](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Digital-Counseling-Binder-Google-Slides-3244782?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Digital%20Organization%20Post%20082019). [![Google Docs for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/School-Counselor-Google-Docs.png)](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/2016/07/google-docs-for-school-counselors.html) [![Digital Counseling Binder for Counselor Organization](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Digital-Counseling-Binder-Cover-300x300.png)](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Digital-Counseling-Binder-Google-Slides-3244782?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Digital%20Organization%20Post%20082019) ## Dropbox Looking for an easy way to store ALL of your counseling documents? [Dropbox](https://db.tt/PMNAggU3) is a fantastic digital organization tool. Dropbox is a cloud storage tool that allows you to place all of your files into organized folders, just like you would on your computer. You can access your Dropbox account from any computer or even your mobile device. Dropbox makes it simple to access all of your counseling documents both at school and at home. A free [Dropbox](https://db.tt/PMNAggU3) account gives you 2 GB of space and you can also upgrade to get even more space. Did you start working on a doc at school and run out of time? As long as the doc is in your Dropbox account, it will sync and allow you to finish completing the doc at home. Dropbox is also a fantastic tool to share documents with your colleagues. You can create a shared Dropbox folder, which allows your colleagues to be able to easily drag and drop folders to share with one another. With Dropbox, you never have to worry about a file being too large to email to a colleague–just drop the file into your shared Dropbox folder! Check out the image below for Dropbox folder inspiration. ![School Counseling Dropbox Folder Ideas](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/School-Counseling-Dropbox-Folder-Ideas-1024x720.png) ## Evernote [Evernote](https://db.tt/PMNAggU3) is one of the best tools to organize ALL the things! Think of Evernote like a digital binder. You can create Notebooks based on different themes and store everything you need on different Notes within each Notebook. Use Evernote to create Notebooks for counseling themes such as: Anger, Anxiety, Behavior Tools, Depression, Small Groups, Classroom Lessons, Parent Resources, or School-Wide Programming. You can add images, hyperlinks, photographs, pdfs, and checklists on each Note you create. Many Internet browsers even have an “Evernote web clipper” that allows you to quickly clip and save content directly to your Evernote account. Evernote is an efficient way to save all of the great ideas you find online! ## LibraryThing Looking for a way to keep track of all of the books in your counseling library? [LibraryThing](https://www.librarything.com) is the ideal library organization tool. You can create themed collections of all of your books and even tag books with specific topics to make them easier to find. It is easy to add your books to your account on LibraryThing–simply search for the book’s title and click on the listing from Amazon. Once your books are added and categorized, you can click on a collection and it will pull up the cover images of all of the books in that collection. Read more about using LibraryThing to organize all of your books in this blog post: [How to Organize Your School Counseling Library](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/2017/09/how-to-organize-your-school-counseling.html) [![How to Organize a School Counseling Library](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/How-to-Organize-a-School-Counseling-Library-FB-300x157.jpg)](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/2017/09/how-to-organize-your-school-counseling.html) ## **Looking for more organization tools?** **Check out these posts by our Confident Counselors:** - [School Counselor Organization: Tracking emails, phone calls, and conversations](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/14/school-counselor-organization-tracking-communication/) - [3 Organization Tips for a Great Year](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/07/26/school-counselor-organization/) - [School Counselor Office Tour](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/2016/08/school-counselor-office-tour.html) - [Organize Your School Year with a Counselor Planner](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/2017/06/organize-your-school-year-with-school.html) Do you have any other favorite school counselor organization tools? Let us know in the comments! ![organization tools for school counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Digital-Organization-Pin-2.png "Digital Organization Pin") Go digital this year and use these 5 school counselor organization tools to help you organize your school counseling program. Learn about Dropbox, Google Drive, Evernote, LibraryThing, and Google Keep. **Categories:** Counselor Role **Tags:** digital, organization, technology --- ### [Creating Mindful Practices with Your Whole School](https://confidentcounselors.com/schoolwide-mindfulness-activities/) **Published:** August 18, 2019 **Author:** Counselor Keri **Content:** We’ve all seen the research and know that mindfulness has a whole host of benefits for [health](https://www.apa.org/monitor/2012/07-08/ce-corner) and [schools](https://www.mindfulschools.org/about-mindfulness/research/). So this raises the question: how can we create a schoolwide culture that values mindfulness? As with any culture shifts, all-staff buy-in and routines are key! Keep reading to find out more about how you can create changes to bring schoolwide mindfulness activities to your students. ## Schoolwide Mindfulness Activities ### Staff Training Buy-in from staff is a must! Sometimes teachers may be hesitant to give up instructional time for mindfulness activities – they’re under a lot of pressure here! But when your teachers understand how mindful practices can transform their classrooms in the realms of academics, behavior, and community, they’ll be more likely to embrace it. #### Ideas for Staff Training: 1. You can lead a staff training on mindfulness to review research and simple ways to incorporate a mindful practice in the classroom. 2. Consider an online training from an organization like [Mindful Schools](https://www.mindfulschools.org/training/mindful-educator-essentials/). 3. You may also be able to find a local counseling organization in your community that is willing to come in for an all-staff in-service on mindful practices. ### Set Daily Intentions Do you have a morning assembly each day? Do you have morning announcements or a morning broadcast? Use this time to help kids [set daily intentions](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/180-mindful-daily-intentions-set-daily-intentions-for-mindful-practices)! Taking just 2 minutes of this time to guide students to focus their attention on something they want to accomplish during the day can really pay off in terms of academic and behavior goals. Here are some examples of daily intentions: - Today I will challenge the negative thoughts I have about myself. - Today I will try again when I make a mistake. - Today I will treat others with the compassion I would like to receive. ![mindful daily intentions for kids.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Slide1-1-1024x1024.jpg)Early on in the year, you can encourage [schoolwide intentions](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/180-mindful-daily-intentions-set-daily-intentions-for-mindful-practices). For example, “Today we will all be open to new ideas.” As students become more comfortable with the practice of setting daily intentions, you can simply prompt them with, “What kind of day will you have today?” or “What do you want to achieve today?” [![mindful daily intentions for kids.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/schoolwide-1-1024x536.png)](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/180-mindful-daily-intentions-set-daily-intentions-for-mindful-practices)### Mindful Routines Help teachers identify times of day when mindful routines would be most beneficial. Could it be during morning meeting to set the tone for the day? Could it be after PE or before going to the library? Identify times when it seems like students need a little help finding focus or grounding themselves in the moment and go from there. Here are some specific times when mindful routines might be helpful: 1. During morning meeting 2. After students are seated during lunch 3. At the end of PE class Once teachers identify a time when their mindful routine would be most beneficial, help them find [mindful practices](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindful-monsters-mindfulness-activities-for-kids-with-26-mindfulness-scripts-for-classroom-guidance-lessons-or-small-group-counseling?_pos=11&_sid=35b8ff59e&_ss=r) that will work for their students. They can do breathing exercises, body scans, or simple expressions of gratitude. Head into the classroom to teach a [variety of mindfulness activities](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-centers-12-mindfulness-activities?_pos=1&_sid=35b8ff59e&_ss=r) during your counseling time, and then your teachers can carry these over during their own routines. ![Want to encourage mindful practices throughout your school community? Read up on these schoolwide mindfulness activities you can use in elementary school, middle school, an high school. Teach your students to set mindful daily intentions, practice mindful breathing, and practice mindfulness in the classroom and in everyday moments.](https://i2.wp.com/confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/schoolwide.png?fit=1024%2C536&ssl=1)### Collaborate Find opportunities for collaboration with other professionals in your building! Team up with your art teacher for [mindful art activities](https://www.counselorkeri.com/2019/05/21/mindfulness-group-art-activity/). Collaborate with your PE teacher for some [mindful yoga activities](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/04/16/middle-school-mindfulness-activities/). Show students that there’s room for mindful practices across subjects and in all areas of life! ![Want to encourage mindful practices throughout your school community? Read more about encouraging schoolwide mindfulness activities & culture!](https://i0.wp.com/confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/2.png?fit=1024%2C536&ssl=1)### Mindfulness Stations Set up mindfulness stations throughout your school and classrooms. Calm corners can easily double as mindfulness stations if your teachers already have these in their classrooms. If not, it can be as easy as designating one comfy floor pillow in a certain spot with a basket containing mindful [breathing guides](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-activities-27-mindfulness-exercises-for-mindful-mornings-activities?_pos=5&_sid=35b8ff59e&_ss=r), a [glitter bottle](https://www.counselorkeri.com/2017/04/09/5-easy-calming-bottles-you-can-make-this-weekend/), or a [mindful moment card deck](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-from-a-to-z-26-mindfulness-scripts-and-mindfulness-activities?_pos=3&_sid=35b8ff59e&_ss=r). In classroom guidance, teach your students how to use these materials so that they can utilize the space throughout the day when they need a mindful moment. ![Want to encourage mindful practices throughout your school community? Read up on these schoolwide mindfulness activities you can use in elementary school, middle school, an high school. Teach your students to set mindful daily intentions, practice mindful breathing, and practice mindfulness in the classroom and in everyday moments.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/PNG-image-5243D83C6252-1-1024x1024.png)Outside of the classroom, you can set up mindfulness stations in the counseling office or even on a [bulletin board](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/interactive-mindfulness-bulletin-board?_pos=1&_sid=32e21d11a&_ss=r). Put some breathing guides on your board or an interactive gratitude wheel that students can use while they’re in your office or while they’re waiting in the hallway. ## Next Steps for Your Schoolwide Mindfulness Activities: Want to build schoolwide mindfulness activities into your school culture? Start small by teaching your staff and students about the benefits of mindfulness. Then, introduce simple activities that your teachers can do on their own after your lesson, like guided breathing, mindful nature walks, body scans, gratitude, or affirmations. #### Need mindfulness activities for your students? Give these a try: [180 Daily Mindful Intentions]() [Early Elementary School Mindfulness Activities](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-from-a-to-z-26-mindfulness-scripts-and-mindfulness-activities?_pos=3&_sid=35b8ff59e&_ss=r) [Upper Elementary School Mindfulness Activities](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-from-a-to-z-26-mindfulness-scripts-and-mindfulness-activities-1?_pos=2&_sid=35b8ff59e&_ss=r) [Middle School Mindfulness Activities ](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/mindfulness-activities-27-mindfulness-exercises-for-mindful-mornings-activities?_pos=5&_sid=35b8ff59e&_ss=r) ![Want to encourage mindful practices throughout your school community? Read up on these schoolwide mindfulness activities you can use in elementary school, middle school, an high school. Teach your students to set mindful daily intentions, practice mindful breathing, and practice mindfulness in the classroom and in everyday moments.](https://i1.wp.com/confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/1.png?fit=683%2C1024&ssl=1) **Categories:** Your Program **Tags:** mindfulness --- ### [How do you balance working at multiple schools?](https://confidentcounselors.com/how-do-you-balance-working-at-multiple-schools/) **Published:** August 22, 2019 **Author:** Counselor Chelsey and Counselor Keri **Content:** Being a school counselor is a difficult job. It takes it up ten notches when you have to cover multiple buildings. Keri and Chelsey have been there. They know it takes clear communication, organization, and simplicity. Check out how they do it. ## Clear Communication & Expectations [![Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15.png "Counselor Keri")](https://www.counselorkeri.com/) When I first moved to Hawaii, I was assigned to 2 schools (fortunately, they were within a half mile of each other!). One school was large, with 2-3 classes per grade level, while the other only had 1 class per grade level. Despite being small, the second school had a much larger caseload. To manage expectations, I had to **communicate** with administrators, teachers, and especially students at each school to let them know when they could expect to see me. I set up a calendar with two days at one school and three days at the other, but I let everyone know that they could reach out to me if there were an immediate need. We also made a clear plan for who would be called if I could not be present. These people were trusted adults in the building that students felt comfortable with, the student services coordinator, etc. I only had an office space at one school, so a rolling storage case was a must! I could throw in any materials I expected to need when traveling between schools. We love [this one](https://amzn.to/2Z1geiY) because it’s collapsable: [![rolling carrier](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/rolling-carrier.jpg "rolling carrier")](https://amzn.to/40d9MVl) ## Simplify your schedule [![Counselor Chelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/5.png "Counselor Chelsey")](https://www.counselorchelsey.com/) Working as a counselor at more than one school can make things complicated. One thing I have done to make things easier is to create a simple and consistent schedule. I have found that it works best to do full days at a school (as opposed to half days) and to keep your schedule the same every week. Also, I like to have my days at a school be consecutive. A sample schedule may be Monday-Wednesday at School 1, and Thursday & Friday at School 2. Spending consecutive time blocks at one school can make it easier for staff and students to understand your schedule and provide consistency for what you are doing. As the counselor, it can also be helpful to do it this way because you can focus on one school at a time without always feeling flustered and distracted. #### **Are you split between multiple buildings?** Share your tips for making it work below! **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Self Care, Your Program **Tags:** CC tips, Counselor Chelsey, Counselor Keri, multiple schools --- ### [The School Counselor's Role in Restorative Practices](https://confidentcounselors.com/the-school-counselors-role-in-restorative-practices/) **Published:** September 3, 2019 **Author:** The Responsive Counselor **Content:** [Restorative practices](https://www.iirp.edu/restorative-practices/defining-restorative/) are sweeping the education world and for very good reason. This approach to discipline focuses on repairing/restoring the hurt that has happened – instead of on punishing the wrong doing. I’m lucky to have worked in a school district that was an early adopter of some of these ideas. That doesn’t mean that all faculty across the city immediately jumped on board, but it does mean that we had the opportunity to receive training on it early on. So what is the connection between school counselors and restorative practices? While administration and classroom teachers play the most crucial and day-to-day role in restorative practices, school counselors are key in its implementation as well. The fact is that restorative practices are incredibly well aligned to our beliefs and philosophies as counselors. This is second nature to us! Our role then is more in making our work and practices more intentional. And in being more intentional with our modeling of these practices so that teachers are encouraged to put them into place as well. ### Restorative Questioning and Think Sheets One of the most direct ways that I promote restorative practices in my building is through teacher training. A specific piece of this is using restorative questioning when misbehavior has occurred. Sometimes I also provide teachers with the questions on little lanyard cards and on little posters for their rooms. ![restorative practices classroom visuals](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/visuals-300x157.jpg) I also provide each teacher with several copies of “[think sheets](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Restorative-Practices-Behavior-Reflection-Think-Sheets-2821307)” (and leave some in the work room, too). These certainly don’t take the place of having a conversation with a student when something has occurred *but* they are amazing for 1) when a teacher can’t have a conversation with a student right away but the student needs to start thinking about it right away or 2) the student does better processing on their own first. Some students are defensive if you jump into a restorative conference. Answering the questions on paper first helps them be more comfortable. Two hints for using these think sheets successful: 1) you’ve got to explicitly teach the students how to complete them (I use a PPT for this) and 2) students need to know how to regulate their emotions before they can complete them. ![restorative practices think sheets](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/think-sheets-300x157.jpg) ### The Goal of Discipline It is easy for educators to forget about the true meaning and goal of discipline: to teach! Sometimes the counselor’s role in restorative practices is helping to remind teachers of this fact. This can come through PDs/presentations we give to teachers. Sometimes it’s through modeling. As much as we like to think we never should be involved with handling misbehavior, it happens (in the hallway, in lessons, etc.). We are in a great position to show teachers how to handle it in a restorative way. The three pieces of this I find to be most impactful are 1) approaching the “victim” first to check on them (as opposed to going to the “aggressor” first), 2) speaking with the student about how their actions impacted others, and 3) encouraging “re-dos”, and teaching the specific positive behavior first if needed. ### The Power of Circles and Connection There is power in grouping together in a circle. The entire vibe changes when everyone is sitting communally like this as opposed to in rows or clumped together. It puts everyone on equal power footing. It promotes connection through increased face to face contact. As counselors, we can model this both through the use of circles during class lessons, but also during faculty meetings and PDs. ### I-Messages I truly believe that I-messages can save the world (and so can teaching your students [effective conflict resolution skills](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/04/04/teaching-conflict-resolution/)). Assertively sharing one’s emotions and needs is a proactive way to establish community, reduce feelings of disrespect, increase peaceful problem solving, improve emotional self-awareness….the list goes on. In restorative practices realms, these are referred to as “affective statements.” Adults in school buildings are encouraged to use them with students just as much as we encourage our students to use them with one another. My role in I-messages is in explicitly teaching them to ALL students through the school counseling core curriculum. I’ve written more about how I do that [here](http://theresponsivecounselor.com/2016/10/talk-it-ou.html). ![teaching i-messages for restorative practices](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/TIO-300x157.jpg) Where is your school at in the process of adopting restorative practices? This post talks a little more about [gaining faculty investment](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/17/restorative-justice-practices/) and training them in best practices! **Categories:** Behavior, Collaboration **Tags:** restorative practices --- ### [What are your go to children's books for counseling or lessons?](https://confidentcounselors.com/chats-childrens-books-counseling/) **Published:** August 29, 2019 **Author:** The Responsive Counselor, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor and EduKate & Inspire **Content:** Do you have a shelf full of books in your school counseling office? Children’s books with social and emotional themes can be very helpful in explaining abstract or challenging concepts. Students connect with the characters and remember the message of the story. Check out what books Sara, Kate, and Ashley can’t live without. ## Trudy Ludwig Books are a Must [![Sara The Responsive Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/1.png "Sara The Responsive Counselor")](https://theresponsivecounselor.com/) I absolutely have to have Trudy Ludwig books on my shelves; I use them every year in class lessons and small groups. - [Just Kidding](https://amzn.to/31AXDrG) - [Trouble Talk](https://amzn.to/4hvWEB1) - [The Invisible Boy](https://amzn.to/2H58RN7) - and [Sorry!](https://amzn.to/2H2Uol6) It’s also crucial for me to have some books for helping students with emotional identification and expression. - [The Way I Feel](https://amzn.to/2Z3qdAb) - [In My Heart](https://amzn.to/2YZL33l) - [Cornelia Maude Spelman’s series](https://amzn.to/4fgGOs0) And if I could only pick 3 more? - [Anh’s Anger](https://amzn.to/31vMtV0) - [Teamwork Isn’t My Thing](https://amzn.to/3YpyM9s) - [The Bad Seed](https://amzn.to/2Z3iX7i) would round out my list. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Just-Kidding-Trudy-Ludwig.jpg "Just Kidding Trudy Ludwig")](https://amzn.to/4f0dNkE) ## Julia Cook Books Top My List [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/13.png "13")](https://mrsbellthecraftycounselor.com/) I love all things Julia Cook. She writes it, I buy it. My top absolute must haves from Julia Cook are 1. [Tease Monster](https://amzn.to/31FE41x) 2. [Bully Beans](https://amzn.to/31uxpHk) 3. [ Lying up a Storm](https://amzn.to/2KwS5bR) 4. [My Mouth is a Volcano](https://amzn.to/2KXd5b5) 5. [Ricky Sticky Fingers](https://amzn.to/31Ajfo3) 6. [Soda Pop Head](https://amzn.to/2Kz6kNE). **BONUS**: [Table Talk](https://amzn.to/2Z5k9eC) and [Hygiene…You Stink](https://amzn.to/2KHT1sP)! are very useful when having difficult conversations about self care, manners and hygiene. Another book that I adore is [What Should Danny Do?**](https://amzn.to/33z31x5). It is an amazing “choose your own path” type of book that gets students thinking about decisions and different consequences. A few other books that I use often and cannot run my counseling program without are [Nerdy Birdy Tweets](https://amzn.to/31xThkU), [Tomorrow I’ll be Brave](https://amzn.to/2Z1YDn1), [Enemy Pie](https://amzn.to/2KXdryr) and [The Color Monster.](https://amzn.to/2KvXxvO) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/What-should-danny-do.jpg "What should danny do")](https://amzn.to/4fgHPAk) ## Books that Spark Conversation [![Edukate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/2.png "Edukate & Inspire")](https://edukateandinspire.com/) My favorite books in my counseling library are books that spark great conversations when read aloud. I love books that have a strong message for kids. My favorite conversation sparkers are: - [A Bike Like Sergio’s](https://amzn.to/2MV6wIy) - [Each Kindness](https://amzn.to/2yYLbWw) - [Say Something](https://amzn.to/2KvthRJ) - [Bernice Gets Carried Away](https://amzn.to/2YMtN6G) - and [One](https://amzn.to/2H4rT6C). Each of these books delivers a message in a way that challenges students to think differently. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/A-Bike-Like-Sergios.jpg "A Bike Like Sergios")![One](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/One.jpg "One") If you are building your counseling library, [check out this blog post](https://edukateandinspire.blogspot.com/2017/09/how-to-organize-your-school-counseling.html) where I explain how I organize my library and download my [FREE library labels](http://bit.ly/EduKateLabels)! ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/What-Works-9.png "cc speech bubble") What books are on your shelf? Comment with your favorites below! **Categories:** Counselor Chats, Your Office **Tags:** book recommendations, CC tips, EduKate & Inspire, Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor, supplies, The Responsive Counselor --- ### [Social Emotional Learning in Academic Instruction](https://confidentcounselors.com/sel-academic-instruction/) **Published:** September 8, 2019 **Author:** Counselor Up **Content:** Social emotional learning in academic instruction is having its moment. While counselors have been supporting the whole child and taking a deep look at [noncognitive skills](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/pedagogy-of-social-emotional-learning), the bandwagon has now officially been joined. If not, here are some ways to increase [buy-in](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/02/18/creating-buy-in-for-social-emotional-learning/). What a great time to be a counselor! In my state, schools are required to use a set of school improvement indicators, several of which include social emotional learning. School counselors are also the leaders of our state’s guidance (insert cringe at the g-word) standards. The combination of these two means that all eyes are on counselors to lead the work in social emotional learning. One part of social emotional learning is certainly direct, explicit instruction. This can be included in morning meetings, classroom counseling lessons, or schoolwide curricula. However, if we want to truly ensure that students are able to put social emotional learning skills into practice, we need to **embed these skills in the academic curriculum**. ## Academic Alignment What does academic alignment look like for social emotional learning? Looking at the [CASEL Competencies](https://casel.org/core-competencies/), we are able to see a variety of skills that not only help students socially but academically as well. That is the beauty of these competencies – I dare any one to say that you can be successful in school without the ability to practice self-management, use perspective-taking, or to analyze problems. These are skills that are required in core academics. ### Self-Reflection Exercise When [discussing social emotional learning with school staff, ](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/social-emotional-learning-for-the-whole-staff)I ask them to consider a unit they are currently teaching. This can be a classroom teacher, the PE teacher, or a speech pathologist. Literally, any staff member in your school can do this activity – that’s the point! We **all** need to be implementing social emotional learning. After choosing a unit, teachers should highlight all the social emotional learning competencies needed to successfully complete the unit. For example, a science unit would not only need a lot of the responsible decision-making skills but also impulse control for using materials, and probably relationship skills for group work. After they have identified all of the needed skills, ask staff to check off the competencies that they actively teach. For example, does the science teacher teach students how to use the materials appropriately and practice waiting or other impulse control skills? The key here is explicitly teaching – it must be taught on purpose or it doesn’t count. Ask teachers to look at the competencies that are left. These are the skills that they are assuming students already have. We can then incorporate problem-solving methods to determine which skills we need to teach more and which skills students typically have mastered. **What do we do when students haven’t mastered a skill? How will we know? What will we do to support them?** ## Social Emotional Learning In Action Let me share with you an example of this activity in action. I was working with a 3rd grade team. The team was halfway through a poetry unit with their third graders. It wasn’t going well. The students weren’t very interested in the work and the poetry that students were writing wasn’t meeting expectations. After completing this activity, the team noticed that they had highlighted several of the competencies listed under self-awareness. While they were expecting students to identify emotions and to have accurate self-perception, they weren’t teaching these skills. The team decided to stop their current plans and spend a few lessons building students’ understanding of emotions and self-perception. I gave them a few books that I thought might be helpful – I love Y[esterday I Had the Blues](https://amzn.to/2ZfEte7). I also suggested they speak with their counselor (I don’t work at this school) to see if they could team up and align her lessons with this unit. ## Intentional Planning Never one to stop there, I suggested that the teams in this school add social emotional learning into their lesson plan template. The school uses a standard unit planning tool for their major units, I asked them if they could add a section that stated the social emotional learning competencies needed and how they would explicitly teach each one. They were game, I can’t wait to check back on how it’s going as this school year progresses. How do you work with your school staff to align the work of social emotional learning in academic instruction? I have often asked teachers to show me their major units so I can align where it’s natural. For example, job sharing in social studies aligns nicely with cooperation. In my fifth grade, conversations around Jackie Robinson’s biography can fit well with [social justice and anti-bias lessons](https://www.counselorup.com/blog/anti-bias-social-emotional-learning). **Please comment with your best alignment tips, I would love to hear!** \[su\_divider top=”no” style=”double” divider\_color=”#af1c1c” link\_color=”#000000″ margin=”50″\] ![Social emotional learning in academic instruction is having its moment. While counselors have been supporting the whole child and taking a deep look at noncognitive skills, the bandwagon has now officially been joined. If not, here are some ways to increase buy-in. What a great time to be a counselor!](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/SEL-Pin.png) **Categories:** Academics & Career, Teachers **Tags:** social emotional learning --- ### [Favorite Grief Counseling Resources for Children](https://confidentcounselors.com/favoritegriefcounselingresourcesforchildren/) **Published:** September 10, 2019 **Author:** Speckled Moose Counseling **Content:** We all strive to do the best we can by “our” kids, and I’ve noticed many requests for grief counseling resources for children recently. I’ve been deeply impacted by students who died and children who experienced the death of loved ones. As I write this, I picture you on the other side of the screen nodding in agreement. I believe this to be a universal connection that we have – and if you’re new to the counseling field – someday, unfortunately, you’ll know what I mean in a different way. Grief counseling resources for kids are the ones that we hate to use. The last thing anyone wants is to scramble looking for books and materials when a grief book or resource is needed. To save you a step, I’ve compiled some favorites, in no particular order: ### [Creative Interventions for Bereaved Children](https://amzn.to/2LL7DIs) ****Why I Love It –**** Sometimes I think in counseling there’s this idea that it’s all talk, talk, talk. I love this resource because it provides a ton of engaging activities and games to use with children. Incorporating play-based counseling games and activities honors the culture of childhood and allows children to process grief in a developmentally-appropriate manner. [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=096851992X&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US)](https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Interventions-Bereaved-Children-Lowenstein/dp/096851992X/ref=as_li_ss_il?crid=2399J383UGEGN&keywords=creative+interventions+for+bereaved+children&qid=1567970632&s=gateway&sprefix=creative+interventions+for+ber,aps,148&sr=8-2&linkCode=li3&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=61f013ac5d1dc32ea957473f0758a908&language=en_US)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=096851992X) ### [The Memory Box: A Book About Grief](https://amzn.to/2NSnDv2) ****Why I Love It –**** *The Memory Box* does a fantastic job of highlighting some questions and emotions children face following a death, specifically being afraid that the loved one will be forgotten. It sets the stage to create a memory box with children and have them clearly understand the purpose of the activity. There is no mention of any specific faith or religion, and the beautiful illustrations are a bonus. [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1506426727&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US)](https://www.amazon.com/Memory-Box-Book-About-Grief/dp/1506426727/ref=as_li_ss_il?crid=38OI9BVQQX1P3&keywords=the+memory+box+a+book+about+grief&qid=1567970682&s=gateway&sprefix=the+memory+box,aps,146&sr=8-2&linkCode=li3&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=dde41b9b6366c3c375a9fe8eb8fd2edf&language=en_US)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=1506426727) ### [Grief Workbook](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Grief-workbook-for-children-and-teens-coping-with-loss-4700312?utm_source=Confident%20Counselors&utm_campaign=CC%20SMC%20grief%20resources%20post) ****Why I Love It –**** Well, this is a little awkward: I created it. I’ve had many grieving students over my career and I was searching constantly for resources that would meet their needs. I found that some students really needed to have their emotions validated and grief process normalized. When I couldn’t find what I needed, I made it. I took what I verbalized and made it more concrete and tangible by putting it down on paper. I also wanted something that other counselors could customize as every grief journey is unique. ![grief workbook for CC blog image](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/grief-workbook-for-CC-blog-image.jpg "grief workbook for CC blog image") ### [Always and Forever](https://www.amazon.com/Always-Forever-Alan-Durant/dp/0552567655/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=always+and+forever&qid=1567970722&s=gateway&sr=8-5) ****Why I Love It –**** I found this one during a school book fair. I enjoy it because it hints at the seasonal and cyclical nature of death and grief. The story illustrates how multiple characters are experiencing grief following the death of their friend. Eventually, the animals come together to honor their friend at the end. I love how it shows children that there can be joy following grief. [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0552567655&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US)](https://www.amazon.com/Always-Forever-Alan-Durant/dp/0552567655/ref=as_li_ss_il?keywords=always+and+forever&qid=1567970722&s=gateway&sr=8-5&linkCode=li3&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=f977a090dcd551cc04b1f92edbc42426&language=en_US)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=0552567655) ### [I Miss You](https://amzn.to/2LodUe8) ****Why I Love It** –** This is a great book for younger children as it does a nice job of explaining death in concrete terms and grieving in a culturally-sensitive manner. It breaks down adult language and terms around death and grief while taking the reader through what happens following a death. *I Miss You* explicitly acknowledges different belief systems without going into religious or cultural specifics. [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0764117645&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US)](https://www.amazon.com/Miss-You-First-Look-Death/dp/0764117645/ref=as_li_ss_il?keywords=i+miss+you&qid=1567970770&s=gateway&sr=8-2&linkCode=li3&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=f7e6c88dcc53c5d354787d02c0c1df66&language=en_US)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=0764117645) ### [**Sesame Street When Families Grieve Toolkit**](https://www.sesamestreet.org/toolkits/grief/) **Why I Love It –**Sesame Street has a magical way of taking difficult topics and making them comfortable and accessible for children. It provides excellent guidance for families to help navigate grief, with an emphasis on validating emotions. The story book, featuring popular characters from the show, gives wonderful examples as to how children can remember a loved one. As a bonus, the resource also comes in Spanish. ### [The Goodbye Book](https://amzn.to/2A5lVyb) **Why I Love It –** Todd Parr has a gift in reaching children with his messages and illustrations. This story is simple, and never explicitly states there has been a death. It’s fair for the reader to assume that there is a death due to the illustrations (a frowning goldfish is alone in a fishbowl and other images show that there used to be 2 fish), but the generalized nature of the story & emphasis on emotions makes it a book that could be flexible to other types of goodbyes that children experience. [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0316404977&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US)](https://www.amazon.com/Goodbye-Book-Todd-Parr/dp/0316404977/ref=as_li_ss_il?crid=3AGBKKBYDB5JO&keywords=the+goodbye+book&qid=1567970802&s=gateway&sprefix=the+goodbye+book,aps,148&sr=8-2&linkCode=li3&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=3013b29c9f8194b764d9c9acb5d64cf1&language=en_US)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=0316404977)![Favorite grief resources image](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Favorite-grief-resources-image.jpg "Favorite grief resources image") ### [The Invisible String](https://amzn.to/2NQRaFr) **Why I Love It –** *The Invisible String* is a comforting story to many, regardless of age. It explains that people are always connected to those they love, even when they aren’t physically present, by an invisible string. I have found that students enjoy carrying an actual string to represent the story so that they have a tangible reminder of the message. This book also works well for children struggling with family separations or separation anxiety. Of note, the book specifically mentions heaven following a question by a character in the story. [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=031648623X&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US)](https://www.amazon.com/Invisible-String-Patrice-Karst/dp/031648623X/ref=as_li_ss_il?crid=TR88XOCBBZMH&keywords=the+invisible+string&qid=1567970848&s=gateway&sprefix=the+invisi,aps,151&sr=8-1&linkCode=li3&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=7049abd03b7daa80a521449a1abdbd58&language=en_US)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=031648623X) ### [Bug in a Vacuum](https://amzn.to/2Q2GgPF) **Why I Love It –** This story follows a fly who gets stuck in a vacuum and takes the reader through the five stages of grief based on the Kübler-Ross model. It’s not a book I’d use with young children as they are unlikely to understand the metaphor. That being said, when kids do get it, it brings a bit of humor to the grief process with the animated illustrations. [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1770496459&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US)](https://www.amazon.com/Bug-Vacuum-Melanie-Watt/dp/1770496459/ref=as_li_ss_il?crid=2HHTX8SVHYZMR&keywords=bug+in+a+vacuum+book&qid=1567974008&s=gateway&sprefix=bug+in+a+,aps,147&sr=8-1&linkCode=li3&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=473ff1ead389e0ab86dc33d5aa264b00&language=en_US)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=1770496459) ### [**Confident Counselors 75 Free Counseling Resources**](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/04/freeschoolcounselingresources/) **Why I Love It –** Who has time to search for resources? This list of websites provides incredible model policies for grief responses, developmental guides, letter templates, etc. Having the links in one spot makes it easy to find when the moment comes & you find yourself needing grief-related psychoeducation. ### Most Importantly … Grief counseling resources can give us a lot of different avenues to process grief with kids. I’ve learned so much by listening to children as they traveled on their grief journey, and I’m honored to be able to use the gifts and lessons they gave me to help others. My biggest takeaways have been the importance of simple moments and experiences with those we love: waiting for the bus, playing hide & seek in the house, and seeing that special person on the sidelines of a game. Regardless of how many grief counseling resources for children you have [on the bookshelf](https://speckledmoosecounseling.com/on-my-book-shelf/bookshelf-grief/), what I want you to remember, more than anything, is that the most important thing you can give to your students is your presence. ![Quote: Never underestimate the power of being present.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/CC-Present-image.png "CC Present image") ### Tell us below! ### **What’s your biggest takeaway from working with a bereaved child? Favorite counseling resource?** ## Shop The Post [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Grief-Workbook.jpg "Grief Workbook")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Grief-workbook-for-children-and-teens-coping-with-loss-4700312?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Grief%20Workbook%20092019) Grief Workbook for Kids & Teens [![Grief workbook for children](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/2.png "grief workbook for children")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Grief-workbook-for-children-and-teens-coping-with-loss-4700312?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Grief%20Workbook%20092019) Grief Workbook for Kids & Teens ### Pin for Later! ![A must-read review of ten favorite grief counseling resources for children. Perfect for any counselor working with children who have experienced grief or loss.](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/CC-Pin-Grief-Resources-.jpg "CC Pin Grief Resources") **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Crisis Response **Tags:** grief --- ### [Easy Ways to Make Individual Student Connections](https://confidentcounselors.com/student-connections/) **Published:** September 19, 2019 **Author:** The DIY Counselor **Content:** Getting to know students can be overwhelming at the start of a new school year. You may have a large caseload or maybe the only counselor at your school. How can you make individual student connections when this is your situation? ### Use Duty Assignments to Make Student Connections Leverage this to your advantage if you have a designated duty station before and/or after school. My early morning and afternoon duty in the front hallway enables me to connect with individual students daily. After just a few weeks, I have already noticed some patterns. I get to know the late arrivals, sleepy heads, friend groups, talkers, non-talkers, bus riders, and so on. Last week, a sixth grader high-fived me as he headed to the bus and noticed my blue house shirt. He exclaimed, “Our house is the best!” This truly made me smile! Other duty locations, such as the cafeteria, bus line, or car line, provide a glimpse into the students at your school. This can help foster relationships throughout the year. ### Be Visible to Students Another way to connect with students is to be present where they are. Standing in the hallway, visiting the playground during recess, observing gym class, or spending time in the cafeteria helps to make you visible and engaged. I learned a great deal in the cafeteria during the first weeks of school. It provides insight into the social dynamics at each grade level. I get a sense of who might benefit from extra support with friendships. Observing various classes and being on the playground allows students to see you and opens the door for spontaneous conversations. ### Co-Teach to Create Student Connections This year, I am focusing on collaborating more with teachers. I will co-teach an SEL lesson in some content area classes, and I will continue my monthly classroom curriculum as planned. Additionally, I will partner with an ELA teacher to develop SEL lessons aimed at addressing anxiety and resilience. The ELA curriculum incorporates SEL, ensuring it does not hinder students from achieving their learning targets. This experience will allow me to see students in a different setting while also helping them view me in a different role. ### Use Data to Make Student Connections Review attendance, achievement, and discipline data to identify specific students who may need intentional one-on-one time with you. Chronically absent or tardy students, low-performing students, or students with multiple discipline offenses could benefit from positive interactions at the beginning of the school year. This approach will help establish individual connections with students, so you already know them when intervention becomes necessary. They will trust you and be more likely to cooperate because of your relationship. ### Use Name Cards Having almost five hundred students on my caseload makes making individual student connections challenging. I use name cards to help with this. I print out class rosters for each class I will be visiting. This helps me to see the name on a list. Then, during my “[Meet the Counselo](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meet-the-Counselor-Pack-2699402?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20Individual%20Connections&utm_campaign=Meet%20the%20Counselor%20Lesson)r” lesson, I have students take a sheet of paper and answer a few questions about themselves. They use this paper to make a name card and decorate it however they choose. I keep these in folders and bring them to my classes each month. Before the next class, I set aside time to look at the name cards and read the answers to the questions. This helps me make a mental and visual connection that I can use throughout the year. ### Sponsor a Club Extracurricular activities are a great way to make connections with students. Although they do take additional time out of your day, they can be very rewarding in growing relationships. They also give students a different perspective outside of your regular counseling role. Having this individual student connection can allow you to be available when they have a need or know someone else who does. ### Remember Student Birthdays **Student birthdays are a simple way to connect with each student**. Use your master student list to sort students by date of birth to get organized for each month. Use bookmarks or postcards and address with student names and homeroom. Attach a piece of candy, a pencil, or a coupon to each card. During their birthday week, divide the cards by homeroom and put them in the teacher’s box to pass out. I was surprised by the positive reaction of students to this small gesture. This made me realize that the little things can help make student connections. For me, making those individual connections is so vital, but yet so challenging. It is not an easy task, and I will not know each of my students by name. My goal is that I will do better on improving these relationships by building these connections. **Categories:** Your Program **Tags:** relationship building --- ### [Suicide Prevention Apps](https://confidentcounselors.com/suicide-prevention-apps-2/) **Published:** September 25, 2019 **Author:** Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor **Content:** > ***Disclaimer:** Apps cannot replace professional help and support for those struggling with thoughts of suicide. If you are concerned someone is in danger or at an increased risk of suicide, reach out for professional help immediately and notify the child’s parent or guardian.* Today’s kids can access thousands of apps at the touch of their fingers. The increase in technology usage has allowed students to access infinite amounts of information. As a result, students struggling with suicidal ideation and mental health concerns can have access to resources at the tap of a screen. We can utilize technology to give our students the tools to recognize when they may be a harm to themselves and how to get help. Below are a few apps that may be helpful for students in a potential time of crisis. **I’m not sure we can emphasize this enough: No app can replace contacting a licensed medical professional.** However, these apps can be helpful tools. ## **For Those At Risk for Self Harm or Suicide** ### MY3 (Android, iOS) MY3 allows users to create a network of three loved ones. They can connect with these people when they are feeling upset or need someone to talk to. This app helps you create a safety plan. It allows users to identify warning signs and triggers and coping strategies. It also outlines a support network the user can utilize. The hope is that the user will recognize a warning sign and then reach out to one of the three people in their support network for assistance. ### Stay Alive (Android, iOS) This is designed for people who have been thinking of committing suicide. It helps users create a safety plan with action steps, identify people and places that calm them, and create a “LifeBox” feature. Users can fill their box with inspirational quotes or pictures, breathing exercises, and grounding techniques to reference as needed. There is also quite an extensive knowledge database for concerned friends and family members. They can use this to help educate themselves and find resources. ### Operation Reach Out (iOS) This app is designed for veterans and their families. It provides access to video vignettes offering suicide counseling and helpful do’s and don’ts when reaching out to a loved one you feel is contemplating suicide. It also includes links to help centers and hotlines. Users or family members can contact these for additional help and resources. ### Suicide Prevention App (iOS) This app includes a step-by-step guide that walks the user through a suicide safety assessment. Once users complete the assessment, the app identifies current safety and protective factors. It creates a wellness scale that helps users identify areas of concern in real time and includes the next steps they should take. Based on the safety concerns identified, users receive an immediate response plan. ## **Warning Signs & Suicide Prevention Apps** ### Jason Foundation: A Friend Asks (Android, iOS) This app teaches the user what signs and symptoms to be aware of to help identify someone who may potentially attempt suicide and how to reach out for assistance. This app provides a list of warning signs/symptoms, the do’s and don’ts for handling such a sensitive situation, and access to resources that can be utilized for support. ### ASK & Prevent Suicide (Android, iOS) Much like “A Friend Asks,” this app has a list of warning signs of a person who may be contemplating suicide. This app also advises how to intervene and access help for someone you are concerned about. One feature of this app that is extremely useful is the quick dial function that effortlessly connects you with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. ### Suicide Crisis Support (Android) This app is designed for the loved ones of those who struggle with suicidal thoughts or tendencies. This app is an electronic version of the booklet “The Tender Leaves of Hope, Helping Someone Survive a Suicide Crisis.” This booklet and app were designed to help the loved ones of those who are at risk of being a harm to themselves better understand the mindset and driving factors behind their suicidal idealizations. ### Ulster County SPEAK (Android, iOS) Is another great app that helps to outline suicide warning signs and helps guide users on how to have difficult conversations with those they believe are struggling or need mental health supports. It includes a guide of what to say and what to avoid when attempting to speak with a suicidal loved one with your concerns. It also includes various hotlines and prevention resources for users. ## **Grounding and Calming Strategies** ### Positive Activity Jackpot This app connects users with enjoyable activities in the area. The purpose is for people to connect as they engage in a peaceful distraction. ### Calm This meditation app helps teach users ways to calm their body and ease their mind. ### MoodKit This app utilizes games and activities to help people improve their mood. ### Breathe to Relax This app helps users develop breathing skills for relaxing and calming their minds and bodies. ### Life Armor This app contains an assessment tool that helps users identify feelings of depression or post-traumatic stress. ## Other Helpful Suicide Prevention Sources Lifeline Chat, 24/7 web chat support service: Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-8255 Suicide Prevention [Best Practices](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/suicide-prevention-best-practices/) **Again, nothing can replace a licensed medical professional.** The hope is that by giving our young ones access to information, they will use the tools and reach out for help when needed. **Categories:** Crisis Response **Tags:** digital, suicide prevention --- ### [What counseling routines do you use?](https://confidentcounselors.com/counseling-routines/) **Published:** September 29, 2019 **Author:** The Responsive Counselor, Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop and Speckled Moose Counseling **Content:** Ever feel like your group and individual sessions can feel a little too loose? A little unplanned? Using routines during your sessions may be an incredible help. They save time getting students engaged because they already know what to expect. You will spend less time planning when you know what to do for each session. Students will feel more at ease and open when sessions are predictable. Check out how Sara, Gretchen, and Laura use routines in counseling. ## Our Counseling Routines ### Check-Ins, Movement, Breathing Routines are a crucial part of my counseling sessions. They help establish relationships, provide the consistency our students need, and develop a sense of group unity. The most important routine for me is the feelings check-in. I keep a cup of clothespins for each group, with student names written on them. As students walk through my office door, they find their pins and clip them onto the feelings chart. I have a particular [“check in and out” lapbook for individual sessions](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Individual-Counseling-Check-In-Tool-for-Structuring-Sessions-4309232?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20%7C%20CC%20Chats&utm_campaign=Counseling%20Routines%20%7C%20Check-In%20Lapbook%20) where students show me their current and past week’s feelings. Part of that lapbook routine is for students to share what they want our session to focus on. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Horizontal-Routines-300x154.jpg "Horizontal Routines")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Individual-Counseling-Check-In-Tool-for-Structuring-Sessions-4309232?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20%7C%20CC%20Chats&utm_campaign=Counseling%20Routines%20%7C%20Check-In%20Lapbook%20) I also incorporate movement into all of my group sessions. With many groups, we do yoga at the start to center our brains and bodies. Some others use energizing movement breaks (such as “waddle like a penguin”) in between parts of the session where we are sitting. I like to end with mindful breathing in group and individual sessions. It helps them be more mentally and emotionally prepared to re-enter class. Not all of my students love this (even when they know it might help them), so it’s important that I give them a choice in which [strategy](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Counseling-Routines-Yoga-Deep-Breathing-Counseling-Agenda-and-More-4403775?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20%7C%20CC%20Chats&utm_campaign=Counseling%20Routines) to use. [![Sara The Responsive Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/1.png "Sara The Responsive Counselor")](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/the-responsive-counselor/) ### 3 Part Routine for Counseling Groups I enjoy counseling groups, most of which occur during lunch. This schedule presents its own set of issues, but I’ve found a routine that keeps it running smoothly: 1. individual feelings check-in, 2. group check-in, 3. an activity related to the group focus. At the start of every new group, after [group rules](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Group-Counseling-rules-posters-3231291?utm_source=Confident%20Counselors&utm_campaign=CC%20Conversations%20Routines%20September%202019) are established, students create a “[feelings card](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Feelings-Card-Template-for-Emotions-Bulletin-Board-2531462)” that they use for my feelings bulletin board. I attached various emotions on my board to the pockets of a cut-up shoe holder. While students wait for peers to come in with their lunch, they identify their feelings on the board by placing their cards in a pocket. I used the same characters from my feelings posters and Go Feelings game so that the students could become used to identifying the images and emotions. This easy individual check-in allows me to assess my students’ progress rapidly. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Speckled-Moose-Counseling-2.jpg "Speckled Moose Counseling-2")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Counseling-Game-Feelings-Changing-Families-Social-Skills-3725625?utm_source=Confident%20Counselors&utm_campaign=Confident%20Counselors%20Conversations%20September%202019) My next step in the routine is to do a **group check-in**. Typically, I’ll ask students to share any good or bad news they’d like the group to know. Framing the question this way allows me to gain insight into various things. Depending on the number of students in the group, you should limit the time each student has to share news. Once everyone has checked in, it’s time for the **group activity** for the day! This activity might change weekly or continue from the previous week. I emphasize to students that our lunch priority is eating, and we can always continue activities or projects the following week. This easy routine for group counseling provides a clear structure and expectations that students love! [![Gretchen Speckled Moose Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/CC-Author-In-Post.png "Gretchen Speckled Moose Counseling")](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/speckled-moose-counseling/) ### Consistent Routines: Same every Time As a school psychologist, I planned sessions as if I were building something. Each session had three to six parts. The content would change depending on the students’ needs, but the framework remained the same. I began sessions with a [feelings check-in](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Feelings-Check-In-and-Feelings-Posters-for-Counseling-and-SEL-2040322?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Conversations%20Routines). I finished sessions with a simple exit ticket and [calming strategy](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Coping-Skills-Activities-2719251?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Conversations%20Routines) practice. These were completed quickly because students knew the routine and were familiar with the skills. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/ACS_0999-1024x1024.jpg "ACS_0999")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Feelings-Check-In-and-Feelings-Posters-for-Counseling-and-SEL-2040322?utm_source=CC%20Blog&utm_campaign=Conversations%20Routines)[![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IMG_0661-1024x768.jpg "IMG_0661")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Coping-Skills-Small-Group-Coping-Strategies-Lesson-for-Self-Regulation-3121646) The bulk of my sessions usually followed a **3-step session plan**. I introduced a new skill, we practiced it together, and then they had a chance to try it independently. When we were working on a previously introduced skill, we spent more time on independent practice, especially if we didn’t get to complete it the week before. Sessions had a different format when students were referred for an acute problem (e.g., loss of a loved one) rather than a skill deficit. However, it remained consistent for that student each time. Routines provide predictability, which helps students feel at ease and ready to do the hard work we need them to do in counseling. [![Laura Social Emotional Workshop](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/CC-Author-In-Post-1.png "Laura Social Emotional Workshop")](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/social-emotional-workshop/) #### **What routines do you use in counseling?** Share yours below! **Categories:** Counseling, Counselor Chats **Tags:** CC tips, counseling routines, group counseling, individual counseling, organization, Social Emotional Workshop, Speckled Moose Counseling, The Responsive Counselor --- ### [5 Seamless Ways to Add Social-Emotional Learning in the Classroom](https://confidentcounselors.com/social-emotional-learning-classroom/) **Published:** January 23, 2020 **Author:** The Counseling Teacher Brandy **Content:** Teachers and counselors undoubtedly value social-emotional learning (SEL). We know that children need to learn SEL skills to succeed in and out of the classroom. Unfortunately, time is often the biggest barrier when adding these important lessons to a typical school day. But with these tips, you can seamlessly integrate social-emotional learning into the classroom by adding them to what you’re already doing daily (or by setting aside just a few moments in the morning at end-of-day) ## 1. Morning Madness Check-ins Teaching self-reflection at the beginning of the day can help students unwind from the morning rush and learn to harness the anxiety of busy mornings. It’s also a quick and painless way to incorporate social-emotional learning into daily routines. **A morning check-in can include a greeter, a moment of gratitude, or other personal connections between students.** Students should take a moment to share what they did the night before or what they are looking forward to for the rest of the day. It’s a few minutes out of every morning to settle in, set intentions, and become present. ## 2. Gratitude Journaling Daily gratitude journals can also be used at the start of the day to allow for a moment of reflection. Short prompts that include SEL-specific skills can help students develop emotional tools they use throughout the day and at home. **Grab a free 5-minute focus gratitude journal** with prompts like: Today will be great because…” by joining my [newsletter](https://thecounselingteacher.com/). Students will foster a positive attitude at the start of the day and then share their happy vibes with the rest of the class (if they’d like to). ## 3. Group Work For Social-Emotional Learning in the Classroom Think of how often you use group or teamwork in the classroom throughout the week. These are excellent opportunities to incorporate SEL into your students’ work! Students should master teamwork to be successful in their careers and personal lives. So, using these moments to teach kids how to problem-solve, compromise, and become leaders is an easy way to add SEL to your syllabus. Arranging students in teams can also help foster a sense of belonging and identity. Team emblems and mottos can spark creativity and give students ownership over the entire group. These groups can be used for short-term or long-term assignments. Students will meet new friends in group settings and learn how to help one another. If you decide to divide students into teams, rotate them regularly to foster new relationships and collaboration. ## 4. Reward Social Skills and Social-Emotional Learning Practice Look for opportunities to recognize students doing well privately or publicly if the situation requires it. Let’s face it: You can usually tell when a student is upset about something. Reaching out to help them overcome obstacles or encouraging them when they do so independently will help them recognize and use their social skills more often. In other words, telling students they manage their emotions well will reinforce the behavior. ## 5. End-of-Day Check-Out and Warm Goodbyes At the end of a long day, it can be helpful for students to take a moment together to reflect on the day and reinforce social-emotional learning. Ask each student to proclaim a win for the day and/or compliment another student. This is also a good time to review goals for the rest of the week or the following day. Encouraging introspection and then proclaiming goals out loud encourages mindfulness and accountability. As your students head home, select a student who demonstrated the use of SEL skills well, let them know what they did well, and give them the honor of bidding farewell to each student as they leave the classroom. These are just a few simple ways to add SEL skill learning to what you already do every day. There are many more opportunities to add social skill-learning to everyday tasks, assignments, and moments; most will only take a few moments. But if you’re really strapped for time, check out my Social-Emotional Learning bundles. These [SEL brochures](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Counseling-Teacher-Brandy/Search:brochure+bundle) were explicitly made for the busy counselors and teachers of the world. They come in bundles for [K-2](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Social-Emotional-Learning-Brochures-K-2-4657492), [3rd-8th](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Social-Emotional-Learning-Brochures-for-3rd-to-8th-grade-4654943), [teens/high school](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Social-Emotional-Learning-Brochures-for-Teens-4913020), and the huge [K-12 bundle](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Social-Emotional-Brochures-K-12th-Mega-Bundle-4958891) for those lucky enough to serve all grades. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Teaching-Healthy-Friendship-Habits-19-1.jpg "Teaching-Healthy-Friendship-Habits-19-1") Looking for more? Check out this post about adding [Social Emotional Learning into Academic Instruction](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/08/sel-academic-instruction/). **Categories:** Class Lessons, Teachers **Tags:** social emotional learning --- ### [7 Tips to Make Distance Learning Easier for Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/distance-learning-counselors/) **Published:** April 21, 2020 **Author:** Counselor Keri and Speckled Moose Counseling **Content:** We’ve all been thrust into a world of distance learning, and while the tech realm can feel like an overwhelming new territory, Confident Counselors are adapting! From Zoom to Google Classroom to Seesaw and everything in between, we’re exploring arenas we may have never ventured into before, but we’re making it work to keep our connections with students thriving. Whether you are completely new to the tech world or consider yourself a distance learning expert, we’ve got a few tips to simplify your distance counseling experience! ## 1. Less is More While we may feel the need to # doallthethings, when starting with distance learning, less is more. Overwhelmed families are stretched thin as they adapt to new situations and balance the needs of their children who are suddenly out of school. We want to be a force for encouragement, not stress. **We suggest sharing 1 simple activity each week with your classes that requires little to no prep work for families**: no printing, cutting, or extra supplies. Keep it simple so they don’t feel like it’s one more thing to add to their already long lists of things to manage. Here are some simple ways to do this: - Contact teachers to set up a time to be a guest reader during their scheduled Zoom meetings. Share your favorite SEL books and discuss them with the students. - Send a no-supplies-needed choice board that families can complete together, or family discussion prompts - Share your favorite YouTube mindfulness clip with some suggested affirmations for students to use - Share no-prep digital activities your students can complete on their devices without any additional materials. Here are a few of our favorites: [Feelings About School Closures Activity](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/School-Closing-Digital-Activity-for-Google-Slides-distance-learning-5441651?aref=8v3lg0tv&utm_source=CC%20%7C%20Distance%20Learning%20Tips&utm_campaign=School%20Closures), [Stress Management Digital Activity](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Stress-Management-Digital-Activity-for-Google-Classroom-Distance-Learning-5374621?utm_source=CC%20%7C%20Distance%20Learning%20Tips&utm_campaign=Stress%20Management), [Calming Strategies Digital Activity](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Calming-Strategies-Lesson-for-Google-Slides-Google-Classroom-Distance-Learning-5376199?utm_source=CC%20%7C%20Distance%20Learning%20Tips&utm_campaign=Calming%20Strategies), [SEL Conversation Prompts](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Social-Emotional-Learning-SEL-Writing-Conversation-Prompts-for-Digital-Learning-2850689?aref=nvdysm7s&utm_source=CC%20%7C%20Distance%20Learning%20Tips&utm_campaign=SEL%20Prompts) ![cc107 distance learning quote 1](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1.jpg "cc107 distance learning quote 1") ## 2. Allow Tech to Make Your Life Easier One sure perk to distance learning is cutting down on paper. However, physical distance can make connecting with families much more challenging. To embrace and face these issues, try these awesome tech tools: - [Google Voice](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/google-voice/id318698524): If you’re using your personal phone to reach out to families, use Google Voice to protect your personal phone number. The app is free to use and will give you a phone number where parents can reach you within the app. It also transcribes voicemails to emails! - [Kami](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/kami-extension-pdf-and-do/ecnphlgnajanjnkcmbpancdjoidceilk?hl=en): The Kami Chrome extension is a must for all those paper resources and activities you want your students to complete! This extension allows students to annotate, draw, and write on uploaded PDFs, and it works with Google Classroom. There is a fee for more advanced options, but the basic one may be just what you need. - [Google Forms](https://www.google.com/forms/about/): Want an easy way to collect information from your students, complete check-ins, or survey families? Google Forms is a must-use tool that compiles data for you, allowing you to spend less time organizing and more time connecting. ## 3. Kick Up Your Collaboration This shift to distance learning is new for nearly all of us, so it’s not the time to be an island! **Collaborate with your district counselors** to prepare your tier 1 counseling materials (#worksmarter right?). This is a great opportunity to embrace “less is more” by connecting with your colleagues. Do you need to create your own Google Classroom, or can you be added as a “teacher” to existing Google classrooms and share information there? The added perk here is that it eliminates one more step for families to virtually find you. **Collaborate with your teaching teams as you contact families.** Start a Google Doc to log contact so you know which families have already been contacted. While everyone is well-intentioned when reaching out to families, the impact of multiple people reaching out within a brief timeframe may create unintended stress and pressure on families. Consider creating a script for your colleagues as well. Think about it – during other crises, classroom teachers and staff are often provided a script with talking points, suggestions, or referrals for families. A script may help them feel prepared for some potentially distressing conversations, as families may disclose about their current struggles. And one last thought: **take some time to team up with your local therapists too.** Find out who is accepting new clients for teletherapy so you have an up-to-date referral list to give to families. ## 4. Create Virtual Events If you’re bummed to be missing big events that usually happen this time of year, put a digital spin on them! Instead of hosting an in-person career day, ask local community helpers to record 5 to 10-minute videos about their careers to share with students digitally. Alternatively, plan a new, smaller-scale event. Request volunteers to contribute a 5-minute clip sharing a self-care tip to promote wellness fair. But listen, if you can’t turn that amazing event into a virtual one, that’s okay too! Remind yourself that this is not #businessasusual. You may have to scrap or postpone those awesome annual events you love. Instead of beating yourself up with negative thoughts, consider what would be most beneficial for your families right now, and focus your energy and events there. ![cc107 distance learning quote 2](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2.jpg "cc107 distance learning quote 2") ## 5. Deliver Lessons that Work for You How to deliver engaging virtual lessons is a hot topic, but not nearly as important as thinking about the inequity that exists with sudden distance learning. While live lessons are awesome, and a great chance to connect with students in the moment, the fact remains that many students will not be able to join in for lessons at a set time and date. Class management is also interesting, especially depending on the grade and if tech features like mute and disabling chat are not used! Live lessons also provide potential scheduling challenges—not only for the students who may be attending other lessons virtually but also for you! As counselors, we’re used to being thrown into a scheduling loop when crises present during the day, but how about when your toddler suddenly screams in the background? Good times. Pre-recorded has its perks: it can be edited and allows other opportunities to connect with kids and check in with a “live session.” If you decide to go live with lessons or activities, record them and post them where they are available later for students who couldn’t attend. **Asynchronous learning is one piece to trying to level the field of distance learning inequity**. ## 6. Focus on What Your District Requests From You We know it’s easy to pop on social media, and go down the slippery slope of “compare and despair,” even when we know better. Sometimes it looks like counselors are still #doingallthethings for distance learning, but it’s important to **ground yourself in what your district requires of you**. Your district doesn’t want you to create a Google Classroom chock full of social-emotional learning opportunities? Then don’t. Does your district want weekly emails to the families you normally serve? There you go. Feeling like you need to learn every online platform out there? Stop it. It’s easy to fall into the trap of “not being productive enough” or “not doing enough for students.” Here’s a friendly reminder: we’re amid a global pandemic, there are serious ethical considerations for virtual counseling, and we’re personally impacted in multiple ways. Leave your superhero cape in the closet, and focus on what your district requires of you, what your students need, and on being a positive, caring counselor. ![cc107 distance learning quote 3](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/3.jpg "cc107 distance learning quote 3") ## 7. Boundaries Matter We get it: We miss the students and the regular face-to-face connection. We want to be there for our students and support them in any way we can while they are doing distance learning. But clear boundaries are important even (especially) during a global pandemic. Stick to your office hours, and don’t feel like you need to make yourself available 24/7. Prioritize your family and your own mental space. #### **What works when you are virtual?** Share your tips for making it work below! **Categories:** Your Program **Tags:** Counselor Keri, covid, digital, distance learning, Speckled Moose Counseling --- ### [Supporting Grieving Students with Take Home Grief Bags](https://confidentcounselors.com/take-home-grief-bags/) **Published:** May 21, 2020 **Author:** Pawsitive School Counselor **Content:** This year, I wanted to help close the gap between home and school by **providing grief resources**. Over the last two years at my new school, I have taught classroom lessons on coping and resiliency, facilitated grief small groups, partnered with our local university (the University of Tennessee-Knoxville) to match students with grief mentors, and referred students to a grief camp. However, I felt there was still a gap in helping our students. I needed to help them transfer these coping skills to their homes and educate their parents. I also wanted to provide families with the knowledge and resources that I have in my office, but in a way that was accessible to them. So, I came up with **Grief Bags To-Go**. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/IMG_1641-scaled.jpg "IMG_1641")These bags are easy for kids to carry home or for guardians to “grab and go.” Thanks to a wonderful local church donation, we were able to make 12 “grief bags.” The idea is that families could check out resources in these bags just like they would a library book for use at home. ## Who gets these bags? Each bag has a specific topic designed for our grieving families. The topics include: - grief/loss of a family member - big changes like divorce or a move - grief/loss of a friend - cancer support - grief/loss of a pet - families facing a traumatic event - general sadness or fear The canvas bags (which I purchased from Oriental Trading) each have a number on the back. On my checkout sheet, I have a quick reference sheet that matches each bag’s number to the topic. This makes it easy to grab and go. ## How do you get referrals? I advertised our bags through my monthly newsletter, our Facebook page, and teacher newsletters. Our front office staff also became great at referring families to this resource. Families/guardians also complete a permission form that includes selecting a grief topic, the names and ages of the family members, general information about how to use the bag, and when to return it. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/IMG_1650-scaled.jpg "IMG_1650")![Grief Bags](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/IMG_1644-scaled.jpg "Grief Bags") ## What is in each bag? While each bag is different, many of the contents are the same. They include donated and purchased items. We ask that parents return many of the items so the next family can use them. - A journal - Pencils and pens - Lined paper - White or construction paper - A travel-size empty shampoo bottle - Pipe cleaners - Crayons and/or markers - Books and/or a DVD specific to the topic of the bag - A travel-size pack of tissues - Playdough - A pencil sharpener - Bookmark with stress tips - Eraser - A folder containing: a list of activities for parents to use the materials together (the [playdough activity](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Emotion-Mats-for-Feeling-Identification-and-Facial-Expression-Practice-3358746?utm_source=CC%20Blog%20&utm_campaign=KP%20%7C%20Play%20Doh%20Mats) is from Counselor Keri and the “Feelings of Loss” color sheet is from [Mylemarks](https://www.mylemarks.com/uploads/4/7/0/1/47012219/grief_loss_feelings_of_loss_mylemarks_llc.pdf)) - Information on grief, trauma, and change for parents. I gathered these from a variety of sources including [Mylemarks](https://www.mylemarks.com/), [Grief’s Journey](https://griefsjourney.org/), and [Good Grief](https://good-grief.org/). - A list of local resources, agencies, and grief camps - “How To Talk To Children About Death” booklet from [Covenant Hospice](https://www.covenanthomecareandhospice.com/) - Brochures on mindfulness, stress, trauma, and separation anxiety (parents may keep these). Not sure what to put in each bag? Check out these ideas [](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/10/favoritegriefcounselingresourcesforchildren/) [](https://confidentcounselors.com/favoritegriefcounselingresourcesforchildren/) ## [Favorite Grief Counseling Resources for Children](https://confidentcounselors.com/favoritegriefcounselingresourcesforchildren/ "Favorite Grief Counseling Resources for Children") by Speckled Moose Counseling[Read More](https://confidentcounselors.com/favoritegriefcounselingresourcesforchildren/)![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/IMG_1641-scaled.jpg "IMG_1641")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/IMG_1650-scaled.jpg "IMG_1650")![Grief Bags](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/IMG_1658-1-scaled.jpg "Grief Bags")![Grief Bags](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/IMG_1647-1-scaled.jpg "Grief Bags")![Grief Bags](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/IMG_1646-1-scaled.jpg "Grief Bags")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/IMG_1659-1-scaled.jpg "Grief Bags") I love grief bags as a resource for our families at home because they offer experiential tools for discussing difficult topics. They also serve as a wonderful resource for our families after a group ends, providing a smooth transition. Additionally, they are beneficial if a student isn’t ready to talk to me or another counselor yet, and for our families during the summer. #### **How do you support students and families who are grieving?** Share your tips for making it work below! **Categories:** Crisis Response **Tags:** grief --- ### [3 School Counseling Communities You Should Be Following On Social Media](https://confidentcounselors.com/online-groups-for-school-counselors/) **Published:** August 9, 2020 **Author:** Pawsitive School Counselor **Content:** Have you noticed an increase in your screen time? With our new reality, we rely more on virtual resources than ever. Here are **three online communities for school counselors** you should follow on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter right now. ## Follow Your State School Counseling Organization These organizations are local [affiliated charters](https://www.schoolcounselor.org/school-counselors-members/about-asca-(1)/state-associations) of ASCA (The American School Counselor Association). They are wonderful because they are run by leaders in your state. This means they understand local and state policies and help advocate for state legislation for school counselors (think the use of time and ratios!). They also offer opportunities for you to connect with your local peers. Statewide organizations are a great way to get involved in leadership opportunities outside your school. For example, I am currently the Chair of the Board for the Tennessee School Counselor Association (TSCA). This means I attend a Leadership Institute before the annual ASCA conference every year. What is so cool about that? Leadership training provides up-to-date, often breaking, information. For example, last year, we got a sneak peek of the new national model before anyone else. Your local organization also helps provide statewide conferences, networking opportunities (perfect if you are looking for a new job), and comradery. Through TSCA, I have met some of my closest and dearest counseling buddies. ## Facebook Groups in Your Area of Interest Facebook has a variety of specialty groups that might pique your interest. Have you been able to set a goal for RAMP next year? Join [On The Road To Ramp](https://www.facebook.com/groups/795852863864067/). Do you want to expand your counseling techniques with a solution-focused background? Join [Solution Focused School Counseling.](https://www.facebook.com/groups/solutionfocusedschoolcounseling/) Facebook has so many groups that it can be overwhelming. By following an area of high interest, you will join an online community of like-minded counselors who post relevant resources. It’s also a fun way to learn about something new. Have you been interested in learning more about play therapy? Try following [Growing Roots Play Therapy ](https://www.instagram.com/growingrootsplaytherapy/?hl=en)or [The Playroom Lubbock](https://www.instagram.com/playroomlubboc) for all tips and tricks related to play therapy. You can also ask peers meaningful questions. If you need help with behavior in your building, t[he Behavior Intervention Toolbox](https://www.facebook.com/groups/BehaviorInterventionToolbox/) is a great place to start. Perhaps you just need help finding an adorable NSCW shirt or the latest TPT resource. The School Counselor Store has you covered. **What kind of online school counseling community are you looking for?**Comment below! ## Social Workers, LCSW’s & School Psychs School social workers and psychologists have different yet sometimes similar roles to school counselors. I collaborate with my school social worker and school psychologist regularly. Together, we are a team of mental health experts in our building These talented mental health professionals are a wealth of resources for outside referrals, testing, SPED laws, 504’s, and so much more. [Kidlutions](https://www.instagram.com/kidlutions), LSCW, for example, has a wealth of knowledge for parents, like her article “[Keeping a Routine When The Kids Are At Home”](https://kidlutions.blogspot.com/2020_03_22_archive.html), which will be wonderful to share in your next newsletter. Laura from **Social Emotional Workshop** is a former school psychologist who provides resources for implementing theory-based practices, such as [short-term individual counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/individual-school-counseling-short-term/). [The Mindful Psychologist](https://www.instagram.com/the_mindful_psychologist) has wonderful resources and supports for students who have experienced trauma. I have also found these accounts to be hilarious. On tough days I can always count on the [Social Workers Break Room](https://www.instagram.com/socialworkersbreakroom/), [School Psych After Hours](https://www.instagram.com/schoolpsychafterhours/), and The [Sarcastic School Psychologist ](https://www.instagram.com/sarcasticschoolpsychologist/) to provide a much-needed laugh. #### So you found your perfect group or person to follow on social media, what’s next? Like, follow, and comment. By liking and commenting on your favorite posts, you can help make sure that similar posts continue to show up first in your feed. **Tip:** You don’t need to type “following” to follow a post. Learn how to follow a post without commenting [here.](https://www.iphonelife.com/blog/30704/how-follow-conversation-thread-facebook-without-commenting) Don’t forget to check out the hashtags! Did you love a post about a new book? See what # the author used (like #schoolcounselinglibrary) and follow it to find similar posts. Before you know it you’ll have a list for a new library. **Categories:** Collaboration, Counselor Role **Tags:** collaboration, social media --- ### [Self Care for School Counselors: Life Changing Tips](https://confidentcounselors.com/self-care-for-school-counselors/) **Published:** October 11, 2020 **Author:** The Counseling Teacher Brandy **Content:** Self care for school counselors is an important aspect of your routine as a helping professional. Holding yourself accountable is key to building the resiliency you need to care for others. Unfortunately, caring for yourself is often placed on the back burner because you might feel like there’s insufficient time or energy for self-care. You may even feel selfish for taking the time to focus on yourself. But what if you looked at it from a different perspective? Think of it like this: if you’re in your best mental and physical shape, you can show up for your students and school staff when they need you the most. In other words, the quality of care you provide will be much better if you feel good. When you put it that way, self-care is non-negotiable. Yay for you! But it’s easier said than done, right? Self-care involves much more than just a day at the spa. Six facets of self-care need your attention. Implementing self-care activities from each facet will help you produce a holistic self-care regime. Once you’ve mastered these, you can educate staff with these tips! *Don’t worry, these tips are easy to implement in everyday life!* ## Mental Health Self Care for School Counselors When discussing mental self-care, we’re talking about activities that stimulate your mind and encourage cognitive growth (two things that keep your mind in tip-top shape). All this leads to better brain function and problem-solving skills—which we all know is essential when managing a classroom or helping a student 1:1. To keep your mind firing on all cylinders, you only need a few moments to spend on yourself doing something mentally stimulating. ### Mental Health Self Care Ideas 1. Keep a personal journal (on your computer or with one of these [handy journals](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Care-for-Teachers-with-Journal-Trackers-Challenges-and-Bulletin-Board-Kit-5862423?utm_source=CCblogLFSC&utm_campaign=LifeChangingSelfCareCC)). 2. Read a book or magazine simply for pleasure. You don’t have to learn a new professional skill, but you can if you’d like! 3. Be mindful of your thoughts, note the negative ones, and then release them. 4. Play old-school board games again. Pick the ones that challenge your thinking and problem-solving. [![Self Care Journal 1](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Self-Care-Journal-1.jpg "Self Care Journal 1")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Care-for-Teachers-with-Journal-Trackers-Challenges-and-Bulletin-Board-Kit-5862423?utm_source=CCblogLFSC&utm_campaign=LifeChangingSelfCareCC) ## Physical Self Care For School Counselors Not surprisingly, physical self-care includes activities that promote a healthy lifestyle, such as exercising, eating right, and regularly visiting the doctor for checkups. These activities are no-brainers, but the following additional ways to take care of your physical self often go overlooked: 1. Taking breaks. 2. Sleeping when you need it. Yes, nap if you’re tired. (You have my permission). 3. Put routine wellness checks on your calendar and stick to them. 4. Combining something you like to do with a physical activity you don’t usually enjoy. Examples: bird watching while jogging or making new dance moves to your favorite songs. > As it turns out, we can’t practice compassion with other people if we can’t treat ourselves kindly. – Brené Brown ## Emotional Self Care for School Counselors While this facet of self-care may coincide with mental self-care, it focuses specifically on emotions. It involves allowing them to exist without judging yourself for how you feel. When you allow yourself to feel emotions *as they surface*, you will not only feel relieved instead of a pressure cooker of emotions but also prevent your emotions from interfering with your day-to-day responsibilities. ### emotional self-care Ideas 1. When you feel sad, allow yourself to cry. Loudly, if necessary, no shame in the ugly cry. 2. If you’re angry, exercise to release the negativity or invest in a legit punching bag. 3. Prevent overwhelm by saying *no* when you’re too busy. 4. Meditate and become more mindful of your thoughts and emotions. ## Practical Self-Care for School Counselors Keeping your life in check is an easy way to reduce stress and enhance feelings of accomplishment, especially if you’re overwhelmed by disorganization. Keeping a clean house, maintaining records, and checking things off your to-do list are all ways to clear clutter from your life and get ahead of all those seemingly little things that cause disorder. ### practical self-care Ideas 1. Organize to be more efficient in day-to-day life. 2. Use a calendar to remind yourself of important dates. It’ll let your brain relax. 3. Keep your workspace and home clutter-free. 4. Pay your bills beforehand to prevent panic and feel accomplished. 5. [Collaborate](https://confidentcounselors.com/working-with-a-co-counselor/) with other professionals to relieve some of your workload. 6. Hold yourself accountable for self-care with this [free habit tracker](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EzXMdVV42MrXAfnJu2lZD-qSfGC7-xy8/view?usp=sharing). [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CC110-Habit-Tracker.jpg "CC110-Habit-Tracker")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Care-for-Teachers-with-Journal-Trackers-Challenges-and-Bulletin-Board-Kit-5862423?utm_source=CCblogLFSC&utm_campaign=LifeChangingSelfCareCC) ## Relationship Self Care for School Counselors When we think of relationship self-care, we often think about what we are, or aren’t, doing for others close to us. But the truth is, when you foster healthy relationships with loved ones, you’re also gifting yourself a strong support system to reach out to when needed. ### relationship self-care Ideas 1. Being social in the teachers’ lounge or attending school events for FUN. 2. Be intentional about fostering your friendships. Be the friend you would like to have. 3. Set boundaries with coworkers and family to protect your time and privacy. 4. Be helpful to others. Seek out ways to help. ## Spiritual Self Care for School Counselors It’s natural for humans to experience hopelessness and dread, which is why spiritual self-care is important in one’s routine. Connecting with nature and meditating can promote self-reflection, help one feel more connected and grounded, and provide emotional clarity. ### Spiritual Self Care Examples 1. Believe in a set of moral standards. 2. Spend time in nature. 3. Meditate regularly. 4. Pray if you’re religious. 5. Keep a daily gratitude or [self-care journal](https://the-counseling-teacher-brandy.myshopify.com/collections/printed-and-shipped-products/products/printed-self-care-journal-for-teachers). [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Self-Care-Plan.jpg "Self-Care-Plan")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Care-for-Teachers-with-Journal-Trackers-Challenges-and-Bulletin-Board-Kit-5862423?utm_source=CCblogLFSC&utm_campaign=LifeChangingSelfCareCC) If you can implement [these six facets of self-care](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Care-for-Teachers-with-Journal-Trackers-Challenges-and-Bulletin-Board-Kit-5862423?utm_source=CCblogLFSC&utm_campaign=LifeChangingSelfCareCC) into your daily routine, they’ll become habitual. And even though it may feel like you’re spending a lot of time on yourself at first, you’re freeing up your mind and energy to be your best self for yourself, your loved ones, and your students. #### **What do you do for Self Care?** Share your tips below for making self-care part of your routine! **Categories:** Self Care **Tags:** self care --- ### [Teaching Kids The Definition Of Bullying](https://confidentcounselors.com/definition-of-bullying/) **Published:** October 18, 2020 **Author:** Counselor Chelsey **Content:** Do the students at your school need clarification about what bullying really means? Do they refer to any mean act as bullying? Maybe they keep severe bullying under wraps because they don’t think it’s a big deal. Teaching kids the definition of bullying will help you reduce the confusion. It will also help students to become better at identifying and responding to bullying. ## Why Teach the definition of bullying When kids don’t know what something is, they won’t be able to identify it when they see or experience it. For example, I have struggled with anxiety for my whole life but didn’t realize it until I was in college. No one had ever told me what anxiety was or what it looked like. The same can be true for bullying. Kids can see or experience bullying and not know it’s bullying. If we want students to report and confront it, they need to know what it is. While some students may not realize something is bullying, others might think any unkind action is bullying. This can lead to students telling an adult about a minor incident immediately instead of using their own conflict resolution strategies. This can also lead to students referring to someone as a “bully,” even though what they did was not bullying. When thinking about bullying, many students may think solely of physical bullying that they have seen on TV or in movies. While this is one way that bullying occurs, kids must know that it can happen in other ways, too. A clear definition of bullying will help your students learn to identify and respond to it appropriately. ## What Bullying Definition Should I use? According to [Stopbullying.gov](https://www.stopbullying.gov/bullying/what-is-bullying), “Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior among school-aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. It also is repeated or has the potential to be repeated.” I love how clear that is, but it is difficult for kids to remember and understand. So, I like to break it down into four things. 1. **Bullying happens several times**. It is a repeated behavior, not a one-time incident. 2. **Bullying is one-sided**. It involves one person hurting another person. The person who is engaging in bullying has some power over the other. For example, they are bigger, more popular, smarter, etc. 3. **Bullying is mean and harmful**. It causes the target to be hurt in some way, whether physical, emotional, or otherwise. 4. **Bullying is purposeful**. For something to be bullying, it must be intentional, not an accident. I combine these four criteria into an easy-to-remember acronym- **STOMP**. Bullying is behavior that happens **s**everal **t**imes, is **o**ne-sided, **m**ean, and **p**urposeful. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/What-is-Bullying.jpg "What-is-Bullying") ## How should I teach about the definition of bullying? Now that we know WHY we would teach the definition of bullying and its definition, let’s talk about HOW to teach it. As I mentioned, using an acronym is a great way to help students remember the definition of bullying. You can also hang a poster about it in your office or make a bulletin board. ### Teach about it explicitly Although having the definition visible is a great idea, don’t forget to teach about it explicitly. Include the information in [a bullying prevention lesson](https://www.counselorchelsey.com/products?category=Bullying+Prevention), or even do a whole lesson about bullying. This can reduce any confusion students might have about what bullying is. It also gives you the chance to answer any questions they might have. In these lessons, discussing scenarios students might experience can be helpful. Giving students practical examples will help them distinguish between bullying, conflict, and a mean moment. Students can come up with examples, or you can give them scenarios. Then, they can vote on whether or not they think it is bullying. ### Allow students to practice identifying bullying Check out this [Google slides game](https://www.counselorchelsey.com/products/bullyinggooglegame) if you want an activity to help with this. It includes 30 editable scenarios that students can look at. They will then decide whether or not they think it is bullying, conflict, or a mean moment. After they click on their answer, they will learn whether or not their answer was correct. This is a great activity to use if you are doing distance learning or social distancing. Putting up visual reminders and teaching explicitly about the types of bullying is a great way to ensure your students know what bullying is and is not. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/What-is-Bullying-1.jpg "What-is-Bullying-1")](https://www.counselorchelsey.com/products/bullyinggooglegame) By teaching kids the definition of bullying, we empower them to identify it when they see it so that they can effectively stand up to it. Don’t miss this important step in your [bullying prevention lessons](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/05/bullying-prevention-resources/)! **Do you want easy to use social-emotional activities and ideas sent straight to your inbox? [Sign up for my newsletter](https://mailchi.mp/ad6eaca5edf1/counselorchelseynewsletter)!** #### How do you teach Students What Bullying is? Drop your ideas in the comments below! **Categories:** Class Lessons **Tags:** bullying --- ### [Teaching Resilience - 6 Tools to Bring Your Lessons To Life](https://confidentcounselors.com/teaching-resilience-6-tools-to-bring-your-lessons-to-life/) **Published:** October 26, 2020 **Author:** Pawsitive School Counselor **Content:** Resilience is one of my favorite topics to teach and one of my favorite [small groups](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Resiliency-Small-Group-with-a-Mindful-Twist-full-color-edition-5743864) to run. I always include goal setting, identifying problems, coping skills, healthy habits, and positive relationships as components of resilience. Here are six tools for teaching resilience that help bring those components and your [resiliency lessons](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Pawsitive-School-Counselor/Category/Perseverance-202591) to life. ## 6 Common Items You Can Use to Teach Resilience ### Challenging Games Games like stacking, wobble, and balance games require students to be mindful and patient. When they fall, they also provide an excellent visual for resilience. I also love games that take problem-solving skills, such as Rush Hour or DogPile, to teach resilience. Students can“level up” to more complex challenges as the game progresses. This can lead to some wonderful debriefing discussions. After each game, I like to lead students through a discussion with these questions: - “What happened during our game?” - “How are you feeling?” - “What was your brain saying to you as you played?” - “What would you do differently next time?” - “How does this relate to resilience?” Games like Jenga or Wobble Wall also allow you to build relationships. As students pull a block, they can answer icebreaker questions and make connections with each other. You can use[ EduKate and Inspire’s game resource](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Build-Your-Own-Counseling-Game-2693968) to add a therapeutic element to any game. ![6 Tools For Teaching Resilience](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CC112-Challenging-Games.jpg "CC112-Challenging-Games") ### Slinkys and Expandable Spheres Resilience is “the ability of a substance or object to spring back into shape; elasticity”(Oxford Languages, 2020). Bring the definition of resilience to life with these flexible toys. Slinkys and expandable spheres are two fun tools for teaching resilience. I have the students stretch the slinky and expand the ball as we talk about things that might make us “bent out of shape” or “stretch us too thin.” Then we watch as the slinky “bounces back” and make our sphere the original size. As we play with our toys, we identify coping skills we have learned or will learn about. One coping strategy I always introduce is various breathing techniques. These toys add a tactile aspect to breathing exercises. As you inhale, stretch out your toy and exhale, return it to its original shape. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CC112-Spheres-and-slinkies.jpg "CC112-Spheres-and-slinkies") ### Modeling Clay or Play-dough Not all problems are created equal. There are those we can control and those we cannot. Modeling clay or play-dough is an excellent tool for teaching resilience because it helps students understand exactly what type of problem they face. Use playdough or clay to have students create something that has challenged them or is a worry they have. Then, they discuss whether this worry is something they can control, “a play-dough problem,” or something out of their control, “a rock problem.” If the problem is in control, discuss how they can change the situation and have them remodel the dough into that strategy or solution. Ask them how it feels to know they are in control of their problems, what they can say to their brain when they feel frustrated, and have them notice the time it takes to remodel their clay and connect that to their real-life situation. If the problem is out of their control, discuss coping. This is the perfect segue into a discussion of healthy coping skills. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CC112-Dough.jpg "CC112-Dough") ### A Paper Plate A healthy lifestyle is a foundation for resilience. “Doctors recommend that children ages 3 to 6 need about 10-12 hours of sleep each day. 7- to 12-year-olds do best with 10 or 11 hours”(Good Housekeeping, 2020). Without rest, our brains aren’t able to work at their best. You probably know from personal experience how hard it can be to rebound or keep going when you are hungry or exhausted. Eating right and getting plenty of rest are crucial in helping students succeed. On one side of the plate, have students draw a nutritious meal or their favorite healthy snacks. On the other side of the plate, have students draw a clock. Then, ask them when they get up to get ready for school. Working backward, have them calculate what time they need to get in bed for a whole night’s rest. Once they have figured it out, have them use a highlighter to draw that time on their clocks. When students are well-rested and healthy, it’s much easier to deal with the small rock and clay problems they face. Since we can’t be there to tuck our students into bed, I use this session to [share healthy habit information with parents](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Digital-Flip-Book-Bundle-in-PDF-format-6062456). You can also host a [parent night](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/08/06/hosting-a-social-emotional-learning-family-night/) focused on resilience. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CC112-Paper-Plate-1.jpg "CC112-Paper-Plate-1")![6 Tools For Teaching Resilience](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CC112-Paper-Plate-2.jpg "CC112-Paper-Plate-2")![6 Tools For Teaching Resilience](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CC112-Paper-Plate-3.jpg "CC112-Paper-Plate-3") ### Postcards Print various images on card stock and cut them into a smaller postcard size. The photos can be of anything! Ask students to pick a card as they come in for their group, lesson, or session. Depending on your objective, you can cue them to pick a picture that represents: - How are they feeling that day? - A goal they have for the year. - A goal they have for themselves. - How do they feel about the start of school or the start of the group? - How they want to feel by the end of the group or school year. Next, have them turn the card over and draw a line down the center. On the left-hand side, ask them to write down their SMART goal or three commitments they want for themselves this school year. You can mail students the cards or leave them on a student’s desk later in the year as a reminder of the goals and commitments they set for themselves. If you had students pick a picture representing how they felt at the start of the group, you can also bring the cards back out during the last session and ask students to reflect on how their feelings changed. ![6 Tools For Teaching Resilience](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CC112-Postcards.jpg "CC112-Postcards")![6 Tools For Teaching Resilience](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CC112-Postcards2.jpg "CC112-Postcards2") ### Books There are so many [wonderful titles](https://pawsitiveschoolcounselor.wordpress.com/category/perseverance-mindset/) on resilience, making books one of my favorite tools for teaching resiliency. I [incorporate books](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Pawsitive-School-Counselor/Category/Book-Activities-198066) into every lesson and session. Here are some of my favorites. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/CC112-Books.jpg "CC112-Books") As you read, have students make self-to-text, text-to-life, and text-to-life connections. For quiet or resistant students, ask them how the character feels, what lesson the character learned, and whether they thought the character demonstrated resilience and how. Ready to start your resiliency small group? Check out my [Ruff Rebounders small group](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Resilience-Small-Group-with-a-Mindful-Twist-Black-White-Version-5744241)! **Categories:** Class Lessons, Group Counseling **Tags:** resilience --- ### [College and Career Readiness in a Pandemic](https://confidentcounselors.com/college-and-career-readiness-in-a-pandemic/) **Published:** November 8, 2020 **Author:** The DIY Counselor **Content:** How do you address college and career readiness during a pandemic? It is a challenge. November is [National Career Development Month](https://www.ncda.org/aws/NCDA/pt/sp/ncdmonth#:~:text=In%20particular%2C%20NCDA%20sponsors%20an,is%20National%20Career%20Development%20Day.), the perfect time to offer school counseling resources that address future planning. Though it may look different, we can provide students with the necessary tools to be prepared for the future. Here are three components that give students what they need to be college and career-ready during a pandemic. ## Stay Connected with Students Whether in person, virtual, or a combination, students need to feel connected with their counselors for college and career readiness. Those who need the most help may not reach out. You can use a survey, counselor referral, or academic/attendance data to determine which students may need personal outreach. School counselors are naturally out-of-the-box thinkers. You can use your creative juices to figure out ways to connect. Virtual coffee/lunch with the counselor, flexible office hours, scheduled check-ins, virtual referral forms, and social media notifications can help students feel connected. ## Communicate with Students Like connectedness, communication is another tool to help students stay on track with their plans. Could you provide a college and career readiness website customized for your specific school setting? A weekly/monthly email blast is an easy way to get information out to all students. In addition, reach out through social media apps to make it fun. Create in-person or virtual college/career bulletin boards highlighting a specific skill, career, college, or technical school. Remember, too, that parents must be included in communications (especially for high school students and those transition years). ## Resources for College and Career Readiness in a Pandemic It can be overwhelming to figure out what resources will best meet the needs of your students for college and career readiness. [ASCA](https://videos.schoolcounselor.org/category/college-career) has an excellent library of webinars and videos for all grade levels. Your state counseling standards will also guide you in your focus. Students can learn about themselves through many lessons and online tools. I use this [Career Fields](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/What-Career-Field-Are-You-Learning-Center-Activity-2575259) lesson to introduce students to careers in general. Here are more college and career readiness resources: - Find **free** online resources for students at [Education Planner](http://www.educationplanner.org/index.html), [My Next Move](https://www.mynextmove.org/), [Career Girls](https://www.careergirls.org/), [Money Prodigy](https://www.moneyprodigy.com/), [Mapping Your Future](http://mappingyourfuture.org/), and [Career One Stop](https://www.careeronestop.org/). - Other resources that **require a fee** include [Naviance](https://www.naviance.com/), [Career Cruiser](https://public.careercruising.com/en/), and [KUDER](https://www.kuder.com/). - Check out your Department of Education website for state-specific resources. - Teachers Pay Teachers has [virtual career activities like this one ](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Virtual-Reality-Day-for-career-awareness-during-distance-learning-5558086?st=851d839b23a25de870314ffe44b441ff)from Pawsitive School Counselor. It is a great way to introduce students to a variety of careers. Counselor Keri also has some general ideas for distance learning that you can find [here.](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/04/21/distance-learning-counselors/) Remember, as school counselors, we are in a fluid situation, and various factors are out of our control. The most important thing we can do is be available for our students, provide them with resources to meet their needs, and encourage them in their life pursuits. This will ensure they have the tools necessary for college and career readiness. [![College and Career Readiness](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/career-fields-cover.png "College and Career Readiness")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/What-Career-Field-Are-You-Learning-Center-Activity-2575259)[![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Career-Bundle.jpg "Career Bundle")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/College-and-Career-Readiness-Bundle-2930833) #### How do you support students College and career readiness? Share your tips for making it work below! **Categories:** Career Development, College **Tags:** college, covid, distance learning --- ### [3 Important Ways to Collaborate with Caregivers to Support Students with Anxiety](https://confidentcounselors.com/parent-support-for-students-with-anxiety/) **Published:** December 10, 2020 **Author:** Counselor Keri **Content:** Working with students with anxiety in the school setting requires a team effort! Caregivers and school personnel need to be on the same page to encourage similar strategies, recognize triggers, and use common language to support the student. Find three great ways to offer parent support for students with anxiety below! ## Caregiver Education About anxiety Caregiver education on various topics can help caregivers better understand what’s going on with their child and create an excellent opportunity for mutual learning. Whether it’s a 1:1 conference or a full-blown parent night, educating caregivers and families about anxiety and positive management strategies can help everyone get on the same page for best-serving kids. Here are a few things you can cover: ### Worry vs. Anxiety It is essential to help caregivers understand the difference between everyday or ordinary worries and anxiety. While some parents may be concerned that short-term worries are full-blown anxiety, others may dismiss a real problem as simple worries. This caregiver education can help them understand when it’s time to seek more help from you, an outside therapist, and their pediatrician and when some simple coaching at home can help kids get through. ![worry vs anxiety](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/C114-Support-Parents-Anxiety-1.jpg "C114 - Support Parents Anxiety 1") ### Somatic Complaints Spending some time helping caregivers understand some common somatic complaints that come alongside anxiety is vital information to cover. Helping parents realize that stomach aches, headaches, and more are commonly paired with anxiety can help them recognize better when their kids are feeling anxious. When covering this, it’s always important to remind parents that repeated somatic complaints are always worth checking out by a pediatrician. ![somatic complaints & anxiety](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/C114-Support-Parents-Anxiety-2.jpg "C114 - Support Parents Anxiety 2") ### Reducing Reinforcement of Avoidance Behaviors Normally, adults want to ease kids’ worries and help them feel better. But sometimes, this results in reinforcing avoidance behaviors that often come with anxiety. For example, imagine a child expresses fear that a caregiver will be in a car accident on the way to work and then refuses to go to school. The well-meaning caregiver may stay home with the child to alleviate some of the stress. However, this action may confirm to the child that this worry is something they should truly fear. After all, the caregiver has stayed home from work to avoid being in a car accident, or so it may seem to the child. A well-meaning attempt to alleviate the child’s anxiety may reinforce the avoidant behavior. Helping caregivers understand the links between their actions and how they may strengthen children’s behaviors and giving them alternatives or more positive ways to respond can be helpful for caregiver education! ### Rational Thinking Spending time helping caregivers understand how to coach their children to get out of a worry spiral and into more rational thinking. Sometimes, adults need an easy-to-follow script! They can ask their kids things like: - What happened last time? Was it the worst thing you were expecting? - Tell me about a time when you were successful doing that in the past. - How likely is that outcome? What’s a more likely outcome? ![prompts to question worries](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/C114-Support-Parents-Anxiety-3.jpg "C114 - Support Parents Anxiety 3") ## Transition Plans for Attendance When a child’s anxiety affects their school attendance, a team transition plan may be a helpful route. Collaborating with caregivers to design a structured plan for helping the student transition on campus will ensure that all areas are covered and that valuable input from caregivers is included. Your plan can include things like: - arrival time and drop-off location - the staff member(s) who will meet the student and the words they’ll use to greet the student - how the parents will say goodbye - common language for encouraging the transition - an engagement activity for the student and a safe/calm location to go to upon dropoff - a list of calming strategies the student uses effectively - transitional items ## Regular Communication with parents Collaboration is all about communication. We can provide psychoeducation and information to caregivers, but to best support students, we need open lines of communication. Consider setting up a daily or weekly communication method so that all support people are on the same page. Parents can send a simple written note in an agenda or email in the morning to let school staff know how the evening and morning went and some things the child expressed worry about. Likewise, school staff can respond similarly to let parents see how the school day went while being mindful of confidentiality. In your communication, include things like: - what went well or positive things they can ask their child about - strategies the child used or strategies that were taught that they can practice at home - a general overview of the day (as appropriate) Suppose your student is doing any [self-monitoring](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/worry-workbook-presale-worry-warrior-journal) during the day to rate or increase awareness of anxiety. In that case, they can share this with caregivers, too (as they’re comfortable!). Overall, communication and openness about worries, strategies, and what’s working and what’s not will be helpful for the child so that all adults can support them! #### Resources In This Post ![Worry Workbook](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Worry-Workbook.jpeg "Worry Workbook")[![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/worry-2.png "worry (2)")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Worry-Workbook-Worry-Activities-Journal-for-Anxiety-Management-4148590) #### **How else do you offer parents support for students with anxiety?** We’d love to hear your ideas! Leave them in the comments below. **Categories:** Parents **Tags:** anxiety --- ### [Free Virtual Counseling Games and Tools for Children](https://confidentcounselors.com/free-games-and-tools-for-virtual-counseling/) **Published:** January 3, 2021 **Author:** EduKate & Inspire **Content:** As virtual counseling becomes an increasingly common part of modern practice, many counselors are seeking engaging, free tools and games to enhance their online sessions. Whether you’re a school counselor connecting with students remotely or a clinical counselor providing telehealth services, there are countless creative resources available to support client engagement and therapeutic goals in a virtual setting. ## Why Use Games and Tools in Virtual Counseling? Providing virtual counseling services can be as simple as empathic listening and helping children build upon their skills. However, research shows that children learn best through hands-on activities and play. You can create extra engagement by incorporating virtual games and tools into your counseling sessions. In addition, counseling sessions that involve play also help build a trusting relationship between the child and the counselor. ## Free Interactive Games The following interactive games can be played live during virtual counseling or telehealth sessions. Although the steps for each website vary, you can follow these general directions to get started: 1. Click the link below to open the game website. 2. Follow the directions to start a new game. 3. Click “Invite a friend” or “Play with a friend” to create a shared game link. 4. Share the direct link to your game through the chat function in your Google Meet, Zoom, or another virtual counseling platform. 5. Play the game live with your student or client as you chat. ### Game Options - [Battleship](https://papergames.io/en/battleship) - [Uno](https://play.unofreak.com) - [Checkers](https://playingcards.io/game/checkers) - [Connect 4](https://connect-4.org/en) - [Concentration](https://pairs.one/en) ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Screen-Shot-2020-11-29-at-6.07.47-PM.png "Screen-Shot-2020-11-29-at-6.07.47-PM") Virtual Battleship Example ## Free Interactive Art Tools Interactive art tools can be used in virtual counseling sessions in various ways. Explore the sites below to use art as a tool for expression, coping skills, and more. [Witeboard](https://witeboard.com): Witeboard is a simple digital drawing tool that enhances virtual counseling sessions. Click “share” to share the direct link to your whiteboard, which allows your client to access the same whiteboard as you. Ideas to get you started: - Draw three things that make you feel (insert feeling here). - Create a picture of your family. - Play a game of hangman to highlight a counseling-related word (pro tip: build a snowman versus drawing a picture of a traditional hangman). - Play Pictionary using coping skills or feelings. - Draw your favorite place to be. [Quick Draw](https://quickdraw.withgoogle.com/): Use this drawing tool from Google as a fun way to interact with your client during virtual counseling. Share your screen to introduce the tool. You get 20 seconds to draw the prompt that is on the screen. Best for ages eight and up. [Color Your Own Mandala](https://colormandala.com): Share your screen to teach your client how to color a virtual mandala. Click “color” and then choose a mandala to color with virtual ink. Introduce this site as a relaxation tool for your client. [Inspirograph](https://nathanfriend.io/inspirograph/): Inspirograph is a digital version of the traditional Spirograph tool. Share your screen to teach your client how to use this relaxing tool. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Screen-Shot-2020-11-29-at-6.12.56-PM.png "inspirograph") ## Free Virtual Sandtray A [virtual sand tray](https://onlinesandtray.com) is a powerful tool that allows clients to express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences through symbolic play in an online format. Just like a traditional sand tray, individuals select and place digital objects in a virtual “sandbox” to create scenes that reflect their inner world. Your client can share their screen with you as you provide sand tray building prompts. Ideas to get you started: - Build a relaxing place - Create the best school day ever - Create a world that shows your thoughts about distance learning - Build a scene of your family doing something together - Design a scene about the emotion (insert emotion here) - Create a memory from your past - Build a world that shows your future ![virtual sandtray](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Screen-Shot-2020-11-29-at-6.24.15-PM.png "virtual sandtray") Virtual Sandtray Example: My Relaxing Place ## Free Virtual Manipulatives Many counselors may use their web camera or a document camera to utilize their favorite games from their office during their sessions. For instance, you may use counseling game cards, a Thumball, or a favorite board game like Don’t Break the Ice. Use your favorite games remotely by using [virtual manipulatives](https://toytheater.com/category/teacher-tools/virtual-manipulatives/) to help you out. Ideas to get you started: - **Marble Jar**: Share your screen and use the virtual marble jar to represent the number of coping skills, random acts of kindness, or feelings a client can name. If you run a virtual small group, use the marble jar to represent participation visually. At the beginning of the session, set a goal as a group. For example, if the group can reach 10 marbles by the end of the session, you can end the session with a game. - **Timer or Stopwatch:** Share your screen and use the virtual timer or stopwatch to help you track the time left for an activity. - **Dice or Spinner**: Use the virtual dice or spinner as an interactive tool to help engage your client as you play a game virtually. ![virtual marble jar](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Screen-Shot-2020-11-29-at-6.28.15-PM.png "virtual marble jar") Virtual Marble Jar ## Free Virtual Spinner Use the [Wheel of Names](https://wheelofnames.com) virtual spinner to create your custom spinner. Ideas to get you started: - Add student names as a student selector during classroom lessons or small groups. - List names of feelings. Have your client act out the selected feeling or describe a time they felt that way. - [Here is an example](https://wheelofnames.com/k5a-v4u) of a custom spinner set up for a virtual scavenger hunt. Share your screen, spin the spinner, and your client can search for the selected item from the wheel. Virtual scavenger hunts are a great way to engage students during virtual small groups and virtual classroom lessons. ![virtual spinner for counseling scavenger hunt](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Screen-Shot-2020-11-29-at-6.33.33-PM.png "virtual spinner") Virtual Spinner: Counseling Scavenger Hunt ## Virtual Counseling Platform for Children Another tool that is wonderful for both virtual and in-person sessions is **[Hopscotch Play](http://share.joinhopscotch.com/6GclVR)**, which was created by child mental health experts as an all-in-one computer tool that transforms therapy sessions into engaging, educational, and interactive experiences for children. The platform has a range of therapeutic activities from games, social stories, psychoeducation, interactive printables, mindfulness activities, and much more! They are constantly adding new resources so you can keep your therapy sessions fresh and exciting for your clients. **You can [sign up here](http://share.joinhopscotch.com/6GclVR) for a free 14-day trial AND receive 20% off your first month!** [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Hopscotch-Referral-4.png)](http://share.joinhopscotch.com/6GclVR) ## More Resources for Virtual Counseling Are you looking for more distance learning and virtual counseling tips? Check out this post about [7 Tips to Make Distance Learning Easier for Counselors.](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/04/21/distance-learning-counselors/) Are you looking to create a Virtual Counseling Office for your students to use at home? [Click here](https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1BXjzBJng0RSJIDCKL1kpMymmBHiUX_-45ATAQuOTPn8/edit?usp=sharing) to find great tools to use in your virtual office! [![virtual counseling office](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Screen-Shot-2020-09-28-at-7.12.35-PM.png "virtual counseling office")](https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1BXjzBJng0RSJIDCKL1kpMymmBHiUX_-45ATAQuOTPn8/edit?usp=sharing) The following paid resources are also available to enhance your virtual counseling sessions. Each resource was created by a Confident Counselor who has navigated this virtual counseling world. - [Color Your Feelings: Feelings Exploration for Distance Learning](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Color-Your-Feelings-Feelings-Exploration-Distance-Learning-5582139) by EduKate and Inspire - [Coping Skills Game for Self-Regulation Printable or For Google Slides™](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Coping-Skills-Game-for-Self-Regulation-Printable-or-For-Google-Slides-TM-4236748?fbclid=IwAR1Lh7p3ImJfMHlamO9S5I6pgShmO--eIWfztLQAw4JPznokKOTHxe0SiBg) by The Responsive Counselor - [Growth Mindset YETi Boom Cards](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Growth-Mindset-YETi-BOOM-Cards-6134482?fbclid=IwAR1Lh7p3ImJfMHlamO9S5I6pgShmO--eIWfztLQAw4JPznokKOTHxe0SiBg) by The Counseling Teacher - [Social Emotional Learning Google Slides Games Bundle](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Social-Emotional-Learning-Google-Slides-Games-Bundle-Save-20-5930699?fbclid=IwAR1Cn5Rg0LTx28LLDrDNeJjOYkUsYAjCzDCJZzWvZPJ7mgsHm3boJEuSsgQ) by Counselor Chelsey - [Social Emotional Learning Cover and Connect Games Bundle](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Social-Emotional-Learning-Cover-and-Connect-Games-Bundle-6235189) by Carol Miller, Counseling Essentials - [Digital Calm Down Corner Google Slides™ Activity](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Digital-Calm-Down-Corner-Google-Slides-Activity-6062685?fbclid=IwAR15nuqBWRIglpBVVwgjJWSQA60hNPTQPNlrTw0P3IU2JsbRYrOFyY19j9k) by Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor - [“Lucy’s Mask” Book Companion and No Prep Mini Lesson](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Lucys-Mask-Book-companion-and-no-prep-mini-lesson-5937643?fbclid=IwAR1Jdc9gcyBxiExijnk5yI_D-RrExK7H3qqCqZUS22cSjzfgDS-iLsVEI6M) by Pawsitive School Counselor - [ Lunch Bunch Activities: Games for Distance Learning for School Counseling](https://shop.counselorkeri.com/products/lunch-bunch-activities-games-for-distance-learning-for-school-counseling?fbclid=IwAR3WBmK2l4-shWCqjhxhtSXrbLG7I80E25V_ycSqCFrwshUWnZNGp-oMyuM) by Counselor Keri Whatever tools you choose to use for virtual counseling sessions, use them confidently! #### **What resources do you use for virtual counseling?** Share your favorites with us in the comments! **Categories:** Can't Counsel Without, Individual Counseling, Popular Posts **Tags:** covid, digital, distance learning, free resources, technology --- ### [Teaching Elementary Students About Identity, Diversity, and Social Justice](https://confidentcounselors.com/teaching-elementary-students-about-identity-diversity-and-social-justice/) **Published:** January 17, 2021 **Author:** The Responsive Counselor **Content:** A couple of years ago, during a lesson, one of my students said, “Not to be racist, but she was white.” It wasn’t the first time a student had mistakenly thought that naming race was racist. However, it was still one of the bigger wake-ups I had about the need to talk more directly to my students about **identity, diversity, justice, and action**. And it was about more than just ensuring my students had the understanding and language to discuss these very real issues. Teaching elementary students about identity and diversity also teaches empathy, perspective-taking, and bullying prevention. ## Teaching Elementary Students About Identity Students must be aware of their own identities and be able to understand and respect the identities of others before they can move on to justice. The skills and attitudes related to identity and diversity provide a needed foundation for perspective-taking and empathy. Your students might already have a great sense of their identity and respect for diversity from their caregivers and classroom teachers, but you may also need to help lay some of this groundwork. When students are proud of their own identities and recognize how they are unique individuals, they are better able to care about the identities and experiences of others. Identifying commonalities, valuing diversity, and developing a respectful curiosity for differences helps children feel connected to people who are different. It also helps children develop a sense of concern and desire to help. ## Keep Your Stakeholders in the Loop One of the biggest concerns counselors have is about parent complaints and pushback – and rightfully so. There has been more than one story in the news about teachers who take a lot of heat for trying to talk to students about these issues. Something I noticed missing in those stories was any mention of keeping the grownups in the loop. What if you proactively shared information about the lesson with students’ caregivers before or after the lesson(s) that gives some more information about the lesson? This would make it clear to them precisely what you discussed and your objectives. Below is an example from a lesson on **[identity](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Identity-Lesson-and-Activities-for-In-Person-or-Virtual-Learning-6193098?utm_source=confidentcounselors.com&utm_campaign=CC%20SJ%20Blog%20Post%20Identity)** and from a lesson on [**justice/injustices**](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Justice-and-Discrimination-Lesson-and-Activities-for-In-Person-or-Virtual-6193114?utm_source=confidentcounselors.com&utm_campaign=CC%20SJ%20Blog%20Post%20Justice) where the main ideas of the lesson, activities, and any books read are listed: ![Parent Letter Teaching Tolerance](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/CC.jpg "CC 116 Parent Letter") If you still get parent pushback, you need your bosses to have your back. Of course, this is, in part, a function of your relationship with them, but it can also be easier for them if you let your admin know about your plans ahead of time. Maybe they don’t want to look at your lesson plans, but having something written up that maps out your lessons and objectives and ties them to your standards can show them what you’re planning and explain your rationale. The American School Counseling Association’s ethical standards, position statements (the equity and cultural diversity ones in particular), and student mindsets & behaviors all support you doing social justice work within the school, including delivering social justice lessons to elementary students. ## Helping Teachers Include it In Classroom Elementary students need repetition and reinforcement for anything we teach them. That includes understanding identity, valuing diversity, identifying injustices, and standing up for others. Even the best lesson might just be planting seeds. One way to continue the growth, though, is through teacher extensions. Even a daily follow-up question for a week after the lesson can help to expand and cement the learning. Of course, if we want teachers to do this, we must make it quick and easy for them by providing them with the prompts. Below is an example from a lesson on [understanding justice and identifying injustices](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Justice-and-Discrimination-Lesson-and-Activities-for-In-Person-or-Virtual-6193114?utm_source=confidentcounselors.com&utm_campaign=CC%20SJ%20Blog%20Post%20Justice). ![Follow Up Questions re: Injustices](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/3.jpg "Follow Up Questions re: Injustices") ## Read Children’s Books About Identity and Diversity Like with any other big topic we want to tackle with our students, books can help us make an impact and help our students connect with the lesson. Sometimes, talking about the author of a book and their story can also be powerful, like with Sonya Sotomayor’s [Just Ask!](https://www.amazon.com/Just-Ask-Different-Brave-You/dp/0525514120/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=just+ask&qid=1607909584&sr=8-1). The books you choose will likely be specific to the demographics and needs of your students. There are a million and one lists out there, and Googling can be overwhelming. Here are my favorite curated lists on these topics: [The Conscious Kid: Antiracist Children’s Books](https://www.theconsciouskid.org/antiracist-childrens-books) [Social Justice Books](https://socialjusticebooks.org/booklists/) [The Responsive Counselor: Books to Teach Kids About Identity, Diversity, and Social Justice](https://theresponsivecounselor.com/tag/social-justice-books) ![Books about Speaking Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/books-pic-scaled.jpg "Books about Speaking Up") ## Include Relevant Examples about Accepting and Celebrating diversity Besides having a positive relationship with your students, making learning relevant to them is the most powerful strategy for student engagement. Teaching Tolerance discusses the importance of students understanding the history and historical impacts of injustices. I agree. However, counselors have limited time and often need help incorporating historical and modern-day relevant examples. Focusing your social justice lessons with elementary students on examples that your students can connect with makes them more powerful. For example, most students are already aware (or are becoming aware) of stereotypes related to types of dogs, like pit bulls versus golden retrievers. This non-threatening example provides scaffolding before moving on to gender and age, other identities students can relate to hearing (or having) stereotypes about. Most schools host at least one fun evening event to which parents are invited. And most students have at least one friend whose father isn’t able to be super involved. Examples of injustices like a “Daddy Daughter Dance” are thus examples they can connect with. Or examples where a student with academic struggles (and maybe a disability) is excluded. This doesn’t mean you can only use super relevant examples. You can expose them to situations they are less familiar with, too. It helps to include at least a few that they will “get” immediately as you scaffold their learning. ![Social skills examples](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1.jpg "Social skills examples") So that you know, your examples need to be relevant without being triggering or isolating. If a student in a class has a parent who was deported, an instance with that might not be the best fit. You also don’t want an example that seems to single someone out. For example, a scenario about an accent if only one student in the room has one. Of course, *you* know your students and what is best for them – those are just some things to think about. ## Teach Them the relevant Social Skills A lot of the learning within identity, diversity, justice, and action is about self-awareness and knowledge acquisition. And that is super important! However, it is also essential that students learn some specific social skills they can apply to make their classrooms, schools, and communities better places. One important skill is knowing how and when to [talk and ask about differences](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Diversity-Lesson-and-Activities-for-In-Person-or-Virtual-Learning-6193104?utm_source=confidentcounselors.com&utm_campaign=CC%20SJ%20Blog%20Post%20Diversity). Provide them with sentence stems and then different scenarios to practice with! Another skill to explicitly teach and model is being an upstander, speaking up when they see or hear discrimination/unfair treatment. You can practice different statements together and then role-play using them in relevant situations. ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2.jpg "Social Skills around diversity")![what you can say infographic](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/4.jpg "When you hear something hurtful infographic") *Quick concluding note: Delivering classroom guidance lessons related to social justice is just one part of our work as counselors. There is more to developing anti-bias schools and helping students develop critical and compassionate thinking. I highly recommend exploring the [Teaching Tolerance](https://www.tolerance.org/) website and continuing to do your learning to unpack your biases and better understand systemic injustices ([Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria?](https://www.amazon.com/Black-Kids-Sitting-Together-Cafeteria/dp/0465060684/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1J84P2SWNURP6&dchild=1&keywords=why+are+all+the+black+kids+sitting+together&qid=1607796619&sprefix=why+are+all+the+%2Caps%2C182&sr=8-1) is one great place to start).* **Other Confident Counselors blog posts you might find helpful:** [The School Counselor’s Role in Restorative Practices](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/03/the-school-counselors-role-in-restorative-practices/) [Creative Ways School Counselors Can Involve Parents](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/04/24/creative-ways-school-counselors-can-involve-parents/) #### **How do you teach these skills to students?** Share your tips below! **Categories:** Class Lessons **Tags:** diversity, social justice --- ### [School Counseling Internship: 8 Tips for Interns and Supervisors](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-internship-success/) **Published:** February 6, 2021 **Author:** Music City Counselor **Content:** Internships are where it all begins in our journey as school counselors. Along with the start of a new internship comes a whirlwind of emotions, anticipation, and excitement for both supervisors and interns. In a “typical” school year, this first significant step to becoming a school counselor can put pressure on both parties. But how have COVID-19 and virtual learning changed the school counseling internship experience? In this post, I share my best tips, tricks, and ideas for preparing the internship experience and relationship for success. ## Tips for School Counseling Interns ### Go in with a positive attitude Even if it wasn’t your first choice! It’s natural to have expectations and preferences for your internship site and supervisor. However, being open-minded and adaptable to whatever placement you are assigned is a key to a successful experience. While you may have a dream location in mind, remember that meaningful learning experiences can be found in unexpected places. No matter the site or supervisor, approach your internship with a positive attitude and a readiness to embrace new opportunities. ### Communicate with your Supervisor Clearly express your expectations, needs, and program requirements to your supervisor. Although your supervisor is your mentor, you must ensure that you meet all your university and licensure requirements for your internship. Take some time during your first week on-site to review your program requirements (i.e., the total number of hours, formal supervision sessions, assignments, indirect vs. direct counseling experiences) with your supervisor so that you can develop a plan together to meet these expectations. When you and your supervisor start your internship on the same page, you can avoid any stress, pressure, or uncertainty. ### Learn about your site’s school counseling program Set goals for how you can contribute to it. Spend the first week or two of the internship learning as much as possible about your site. - How many students are at your school, and what’s the makeup of students? - Did your supervisor conduct a [needs assessment](http://theresponsivecounselor.com/2017/12/school-counseling-needs-assessmen.html) that you can review together? - What are the different roles that your supervisor plays, and how do they manage their time? - Which small groups are they currently running, which classroom lessons are they teaching, and which special events are coming up? Once you understand where your site’s school counseling program currently stands, **set goals for how you can contribute** to its future. Keep in mind that, unfortunately, many counselors are assigned [non-counseling duties](https://www.edutopia.org/blog/admin-guide-to-school-counselors-kimberlee-ratliff). If your supervisor asks you to assist with these responsibilities, graciously ask for the tasks you need to experience and offer to help others as time allows. ### Remember that you are new and accept imperfection While setting goals and high expectations is healthy and wonderful, school counseling interns must remember that they are new to this field. When something is new, we will make mistakes, ask many questions, and feel unsure. All of this is expected and okay! Make sure that the expectations that you set for yourself are realistic, and **give yourself grace** in this learning process. ### Be willing to take risks and leave your comfort zone Experienced school counselors can seamlessly transition between 504 paperwork, supporting a student in crisis, explaining a bullying incident to parents, planning a Career Day, and teaching a classroom lesson – all within the same hour or two! This fast-paced and ever-changing environment can bring interns out of their comfort zone. But, the only way to learn is by jumping in with both feet. School counselors never know what their day will look like or what issues students, teachers, and administrators will throw their way. Similarly, interns must roll with the punches and go with the flow. If your supervisor asks you to meet with a student, speak with a parent, or help plan a special event – whatever it may be, try it! Remember that you are not expected to be perfect; showing up for the task will go a long way. ### Seek out regular feedback and be open to constructive criticism Take full advantage of having an experienced, trained professional there to support and guide you in your internship experience. Have a positive and open mind towards any feedback your supervisor offers, and remember that they are there to mold you into the counselor you will become. By observing your practice and offering tips, advice, and feedback, your supervisor will help you refine your practice and hone your skills. If your supervisor does not offer consistent or thorough enough feedback, let them know! Although school counselors are very busy and thrown in many different directions, they have a responsibility to help you grow and learn each day of your internship. ### Let your supervisor know when you feel ready to take on new responsibilities Every intern is unique, and the experience, skills, abilities, and confidence level they bring with them vary greatly. Some interns want to jump into the work, while others like to shadow and observe. Discuss your readiness and comfort level with your supervisor regarding each aspect of your role so that they can challenge and encourage you while respecting your feelings and wishes. Let your supervisor know if you have observed a few classroom lessons and feel ready to co-teach or teach independently! Also, if you would like to create the plan for a small group session and co-facilitate it with your supervisor, let them know! Make sure that you and your supervisor mutually understand your comfort level and readiness so that you can continue to grow into an independent and confident counselor-in-training. ### Laugh, love, learn, and have FUN! You’re only an intern for a short while. Make the most of it! Love the children. Cherish their stories. Laugh at the hilarious and adorable things they say. Enjoy the warm, welcoming, family-oriented school environment. Build relationships with teachers and your supervisor. Take full advantage of having a supervisor to bounce ideas off of, learn from, and collaborate with you. And most importantly, have FUN! ## Tips for School Counseling Supervisors ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/School-Counseling-Internship-Tips-3.png "School Counseling Internship Tips 3") ### Understand the university expectations and requirements for internship Although completing the internship is ultimately the intern’s responsibility, the intern and supervisor must be on the same page regarding the university and state licensure requirements. Interns and supervisors should take time to review the university internship requirements and create a plan together to meet them. Knowing the number of hours required, how formal supervision works, the role expectations, evaluation systems, etc., on the front end can help avoid stress and uncertainty in the future. If you have any questions about the internship experience, check in with your university-level supervisor. ### Provide your intern with a comfortable work space Space can be very limited in schools, but it is essential for your intern to feel welcome, comfortable, and organized while at your site. Simply providing an extra table or desk in your office can make your intern feel like they’re part of your team and allow you to supervise and observe their work. In addition to a physical space, if you feel comfortable doing so and your district allows, provide your intern access to student information systems. Even if it means sitting with you and going through Schoology or Infinite Campus, familiarize your intern with school-level systems to ensure their practice is data-driven. ### Assess your intern’s comfort level, strengths, interests, and skill set On your intern’s first day at your site, set aside an hour or two to discuss and assess their comfort level, interests, strengths, and skill set. Try to get a feel for your intern’s personality, abilities, and experience so that you can meet them where they are, but also gently push and challenge them to try new things. Does your intern love event planning but not feel as comfortable leading groups? Do they enjoy delivering classroom lessons but not feel as ready to plan them? Learning as much as possible about your intern from the start can help you assign them meaningful roles and maximize the benefit to your site and your intern’s growth. ### Teach your intern about your school and program. Then set goals together After getting to know your intern, teach them as much as possible about your program. - Familiarize them with the population of students you serve and review the results of your needs assessment. - Share your calendar and information about upcoming special events, classroom lesson topics, small group needs, and “frequent flyer” students. - Explain your role in 504 coordination and formal intervention team meetings. - Think about services that your students have needed and that you can now provide with this extra set of hands. Although it can be tempting to assign paperwork or “easier” tasks to interns (i.e., lunch duty, recess duty), only give them appropriate counseling duties to focus on. Once your intern has a solid grasp of your program and role, create mutually beneficial goals to benefit your program and prepare your counselor-in-training for their first job. ### Based on their comfort level, ease your intern into Their new role As mentioned, interns vary significantly in their comfort level, confidence, and experience. Try to balance helping your intern feel safe and ready and ensuring they are challenged and have new learning experiences daily. A general guideline may be to spend weeks one to two shadowing/observing as many aspects of your role as possible. Then, in week three, independent counseling opportunities with supervision will be offered. Once your intern feels ready to lead counseling sessions and classroom lessons, allow them to do so, but remain present to observe and supervise. ### Offer as many varied learning opportunities as possible Try to give your intern a taste of the different (appropriate) roles that school counselors play in a comprehensive school counseling program. Internships should be hands-on, immersive experiences that offer interns an active role in individual counseling, small group counseling, classroom lesson planning and delivery, event planning, collaborative meetings with parents and teachers, 504 coordination, etc. By having various learning experiences, interns can develop their skills and get a feel for their preferences, strengths, and abilities as counselors. ### Provide consistent feedback – both formal and informal Offering meaningful, consistent, and practical feedback in formal and informal supervision sessions is one of the most critical roles of the supervisor. Familiarize yourself with the university supervision expectations and schedule your formal supervision sessions in advance. Use them to discuss progress towards goals, upcoming events, student needs, the intern’s comfort level, and willingness to take on new or different responsibilities. Encourage an open dialogue so the intern and supervisor can support each other. After every service your intern delivers, offer informal feedback at the end of each day. Take a minute or two to process the experience, answer questions, discuss what went well/didn’t go well, and brainstorm ideas for future sessions. Giving your intern these brief moments of your time shows that you are invested in their growth. ### Laugh, love, learn, and have FUN! Take full advantage of this extra set of hands and fresh mind to brainstorm with. Celebrate this opportunity to teach and mentor someone about the field that you love. Share your passion for the work that you do. Be the supervisor that you wish you had as an intern years ago. Enjoy your time together, for it won’t last forever. **Do you still want to learn more about school counseling internships?** Here are some recommended resources: - [How has COVID-19 Changed School Counseling Internships](https://confidentcounselors.com/2021/02/06/school-counseling-internship-covid19-interviews/)? - [Considering Taking a School Counseling Intern? by Confident Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/23/school-counseling-intern/) - [The School Counselor’](https://www.amazon.com/School-Counselors-Guide-Surviving-First-ebook/dp/B082MRT2RS)[s ](https://www.amazon.com/School-Counselors-Guide-Surviving-First-ebook/dp/B082MRT2RS)[Guide to Surviving the First Year](https://www.amazon.com/School-Counselors-Guide-Surviving-First-ebook/dp/B082MRT2RS): Internship Through Professional Development - [Must-Have Resources for New School Counselors by Confident Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/07/09/must-have-resources-for-new-school-counselors/) > **What is your best advice for a successful internship, as a counselor or an intern?** We’d love to hear from you! **Categories:** Your Program **Tags:** internship, new counselor --- ### [How has COVID-19 Changed School Counseling Internships?](https://confidentcounselors.com/school-counseling-internship-covid19-interviews/) **Published:** February 6, 2021 **Author:** Music City Counselor **Content:** COVID-19 has turned the world of education upside down. School counseling internships have looked very different in 2020 and 2021. There is no better way to understand the impact of COVID-19 on internship than to go straight to the source. Two school counseling interns and two school counseling supervisors were kind enough to talk with me about their experiences managing internship in a pandemic world. ### An Interview with Current School Counseling Interns, Jennifer and Ashleigh *Jennifer is a middle school intern from Wisconsin and Ashleigh is an elementary school intern from Virginia.* #### 1) What services did you provide in your virtual internship? **Jennifer**: During my internship, I was able to do whole group virtual lessons with different middle school classes. I led some small group sessions with 8th grade girls focusing on issues like self-esteem and healthy relationships. We had a virtual career day and I helped recruit several speakers to come talk to the middle school students. I was able to talk to the students about the transition from middle school to high school and introduce them to some high school students who came to speak virtually to them. Another neat thing we did was have representatives from local colleges come to talk to 8th grade students about the programs and scholarships that they offer and students were able to get virtual tours of the campuses. **Ashleigh**: I was able to provide individual counseling services. My supervisor was wonderful and worked with me to ensure that I was able to learn as much as I could virtually. #### 2) What did you enjoy most about your virtual internship? **Jennifer**: I enjoyed being able to learn more about school counseling by talking and collaborating with my supervisor. Even though it was a virtual experience, I think my supervisors did the best that they could with showing me some of the responsibilities and tasks that they carry out on a daily basis. I certainly learned about many virtual resources that I hadn’t heard of or used before! I’m excited about going back to an in-person setting, but am also looking forward to incorporating new and exciting technologies into lessons and group work in the future. I learned that many students are extremely resilient and are working hard to do the best that they can with this new virtual learning curve ball that we were all thrown this past year. **Ashleigh**: My favorite part of my virtual internship is the same sentiment I hold halfway through my first year as a school counselor: being school-based support for students, staff, and families. Through the end of my internship and into my first year, I have learned so many ways to be accessible to all those who need the services I provide. #### 3) What did you miss most about not being able to serve students in person? **Jennifer**: I miss nearly everything about serving students in person! Building relationships and trust virtually is quite difficult (especially when you’re a new person and a new face). Many activities that I would like to have done with the students involve hands-on work, games, and group work that was difficult to translate to a virtual environment. **Ashleigh**: I miss being able to serve students in person for so many reasons. I miss seeing students in the hallways, in their classrooms, interacting with each other, and sharing their joys and their challenges. My favorite part of my elementary internship from January 2020 – March 2020 when it was in person, was seeing the students light up when my supervisor and I came into the cafeteria to pick them up for lunch bunches. #### 4) What were the biggest challenges of a virtual internship for you? **Jennifer**: The biggest challenges were not being able to meet and interact with students in person. You definitely don’t have the same connection and relationship with students when you’re working virtually. Many of the students I worked with never turned on their camera, so it was sad not to always get to see or know who I was working with. Recruiting students to attend small group sessions was also difficult, because usually after they finished their class meetings for the day, they logged off and often forgot about our scheduled times together. Students aren’t guaranteed the same level of privacy that they would get in small or individual sessions when they’re working at home with siblings and other family members around, and this made it hard for some students to truly open up and be honest. **Ashleigh**: As previously mentioned, my final internship was from January – May 2020. The biggest challenges I faced in my virtual internship were from both my school site as well as what my university required for our program. Being an unprecedented time, my school site and my university were both trying to determine what was feasible for everyone simultaneously. I, again, commend my supervisor as well as her co-counselor for allowing me continue to be a part of their school counseling team. I was able to continue to be hands on during my final months of my program. #### 5) Even though your internship was virtual, do you still feel prepared for your first school counseling position? **Jennifer**: Prior to delving into the school counseling world, I was a kindergarten teacher for many years. I am very thankful for my time that I spent in the elementary school setting, because without that previous in-person school experience I’m not sure I would be as prepared as I would like to be for the role of school counselor. I feel like I have a better understanding of what I would like the role to look like, and the virtual experience was certainly better than nothing at all. School counselors and teachers are always evolving and learning, and this experience taught me more about being flexible which is something that we all need to be familiar with when working in a school environment. **Ashleigh**: Having the last few months of my internship be virtual, and beginning my first year virtually, I felt very prepared to deliver my school counseling program. I am confident that when my school returns to school, I will remain flexible and assist in any capacity. I love being a school counselor and I appreciate all of the support I have had in my first year from my administration and co-counselor! ### An Interview with Current School Counseling Supervisors, Katie and Robin *Katie is an elementary school supervisor from Wisconsin and Robin is an elementary school supervisor from Georgia.* #### 1) What services did your virtual intern provide? **Katie:** She was able to see students individually. She was also able to record stories and help with assignments for students. **Robin**: My intern will begin working with me in March of 2021. I will try and keep our services as close to what we do when in-person, but they will look a little different. She will be required to facilitate a small group, teach classroom lessons, do parent/teacher consultations, etc. so we will work to make sure she can fulfill those requirements. I also have a program where I collaborate with the 8th grade counselor at our feeder middle school to have some of their girls teach relational aggression skills to all our 5th grade girls (they would come to our school and do this four times in the spring). This will be one of the projects that she will be working on virtually. She will also focus on test-taking skills if we have our state assessment and the transition to middle school lessons, too. #### 2) What did you enjoy most about having a virtual intern? **Katie**: I enjoyed our supervision sessions with one another. I had more time virtually to dedicate to her questions. If we had been on site, we would not have had as much time to meet. **Robin**: N/A #### 3) How was supervising a virtual intern different from supervising an in-person intern? **Katie:** The biggest difference between an in person and a virtual intern is their ability to reach all students when needed. Interns don’t necessarily have our student information management systems, so for them to see all of the assignments, parent contact info, email, etc. it made it more tricky. When we are in person, I’m right there to do it with them side by side. **Robin**: If we remain digital and they move all the teachers home as well, it will be a bit more challenging. She would not be able to work as independently as she would in the building. My biggest concern, however, is the relationship piece. You just cannot get that over Zoom, especially if you have never worked with or seen the student before. #### 4) What did you worry that your virtual intern missed out on by not being able to serve students in person? **Katie**: I did worry that she didn’t have as good of an experience, but she was in-person with me in February and part of March so she did get a taste of elementary school counseling in person. **Robin**: Even now with us being half and half, things are different. We don’t have as many of the situations come up that take your time all day. What I would tell my interns is you can make a to-do list, but there are many days that you won’t get to one of those things. Being a school counselor means you must be flexible at all times and determine what issue trumps another one. This is what our intern will miss out on — the true day in the life of a school counselor. So far we have hardly had any conflict resolution situations come up. And they were mainly in the building. Virtually, we have had some texting issues. My intern will also miss out on canceled events and programs such as the Peer Leadership Conference, New Student Ambassadors, Girl PRIDE, etc. #### 5) What were the biggest challenges of having a virtual intern? **Katie**: The biggest challenge was the access to our student information systems: Seesaw, Schoology, and Infinite Campus. **Robin**: Making sure her requirements are met for her university program. #### 6) Do you feel that the virtual internship prepared your intern for their first school counseling position? **Katie**: I feel that my intern is ready for her first position. She told me numerous times how grateful she was and that despite Covid hitting mid internship, she learned so much during her time with me. **Robin**: For our spring intern, it will be a little tough. I do have concerns about her being prepared. She will be with us from August-October though so who knows what things will look like then. When interns don’t get the day to day experience from being in-person with students, it will be hard for them to jump right into that when they have their own school. Can they learn it? Yes, but they will need consult, consult, and consult! --- ### Still wanting to learn more about school counseling internships? ### Recommended Resources - [School Counseling Internship Success](https://confidentcounselors.com/2021/02/06/school-counseling-internship-success/) - [Considering Taking a School Counseling Intern? by Confident Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/23/school-counseling-intern/) - [The School Counselor’](https://www.amazon.com/School-Counselors-Guide-Surviving-First-ebook/dp/B082MRT2RS)[s ](https://www.amazon.com/School-Counselors-Guide-Surviving-First-ebook/dp/B082MRT2RS)[Guide to Surviving the First Year](https://www.amazon.com/School-Counselors-Guide-Surviving-First-ebook/dp/B082MRT2RS): Internship Through Professional Development - [Must-Have Resources for New School Counselors by Confident Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/07/09/must-have-resources-for-new-school-counselors/) --- #### Pin It for Later! ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/School-Counseling-Internships-During-COVID-19-683x1024.png) **Categories:** Your Program **Tags:** covid, distance learning, internship, new counselor --- ## Pages ### [Home](https://confidentcounselors.com/) **Published:** March 12, 2022 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** This has been autogenerated as a placeholder for homepage. --- ### [Recommended](https://confidentcounselors.com/recommended/) **Published:** May 17, 2022 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** ## What We Use Every year, we get asked what books, games, materials, and tools a school counselor should have. This page has all the resources that we have used and love. Nothing other than what we pull off the shelf every week. ## Your Office Shelf ### Practical Office Decor A visually welcoming office can help students feel at ease, but it can also be an opportunity to include visuals that double as counseling tools. [![Feelings Posters Cover](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/THUMBS-Feelings-Posters.001.jpeg "THUMBS | Feelings Posters.001")]()[![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Kate-Scaling-Tool.jpeg "Kate Scaling Tool")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Feelings-Check-In-Tools-for-Solution-Focused-Counseling-6839805?utm_source=CC%20Recommended%20Resources&utm_campaign=EduKate%20Scaling%20Tool)[![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Brandy-Circles-of-Control.jpeg "Brandy Circles of Control")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Circle-of-Control-Anxiety-Craft-Digital-Version-3230858?utm_source=CC%20Recommended%20Resources&utm_campaign=Counseling%20Teacher%20Circles%20of%20control)[![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Counseling-Rules-Posters-Speckled.jpeg "Counseling Rules Posters Speckled")](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Group-Counseling-rules-posters-3231291?utm_source=CC%20Recommended%20Resources&utm_campaign=Speckled%20Counseling%20Rules%20Posters) ### Office Supplies Open our desk drawers and this is what you will find. Post-its, pens, highlighters, paper clips, bins. ### Art Supplies Art is a great way to get kids to express themselves. Stock your shelf with paper, markers, pipe cleaners, glue sticks, and more. ### Counseling Props Certain props can make a concept come to life a student. Chimes for mindfulness – Fake glasses for perspective taking – mirrors for emotional awareness – and more. ### Tools for Students Materials that you can give students, such as fidgets, therabands, reminder bracelets. ## **Games** ### Non-Counseling Games - Break the Ice - Connect 4 - Chutes & Ladders - Battleship ### Cooperative Games [![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00UB7P0XY&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US)](https://www.amazon.com/Gamewright-418-Outfoxed-Game-Board/dp/B00UB7P0XY?crid=19V3AEH2OM4LY&keywords=outfoxed%2Bgame&qid=1657370840&sprefix=outfoxed%2Bgame%2Caps%2C116&sr=8-2&th=1&linkCode=li3&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=86b30cabbca2164b8442dabfa39eb1e9&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_il)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=B00UB7P0XY)[![](//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B004HVKAAI&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US)](https://www.amazon.com/Peaceable-Kingdom-Winning-Cooperative-Matching/dp/B004HVKAAI?crid=1O03RSX3O1TWP&keywords=hoot+owl+hoot+game&qid=1657370902&sprefix=hoot+owl+hoot+game%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-4&linkCode=li3&tag=confidentcounselors-20&linkId=87300702820780840b44b7af18158ff5&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_il)![](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=confidentcounselors-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=B004HVKAAI) - Race to the treasure - gnomes at night - secret door - max ### Printable Counseling Games #### BUILD YOUR OWN ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Build-your-own-game.jpeg "Build your own game") #### CAREER BINGO ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Career-Bingo.jpeg "Career Bingo") #### SELF REGULATION ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/self-reg-bundle.jpeg "self reg bundle") #### FRIENDSHIP QUIZ ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/friendship.jpeg "friendship") --- ### [About Us](https://confidentcounselors.com/about-us/) **Published:** June 4, 2022 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** ## How We Started In 2016, we started Confident Counselors as a monthly blog post. We were a group of 20+ counselors who met in Facebook groups. We’d gather some links and tips on a topic and toss a post up. But we wanted to give more. Being a school counselor can be a lonely job. PD days were not created with you in mind. There is no grade team to plan with after school. Instead, your schedule gets taken over by random duties and a Friday afternoon crisis. When you visit the site today, you will find hundreds of posts from counselors all over the country. They share their experiences and ideas, so you don’t have to start from scratch. We hope you find what you need to feel inspired, supported, and confident. A collaborative community where you can find inspiration, support, and confidence. ## Authors @ Confident Counselors [](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/social-emotional-workshop/) ## [Social Emotional Workshop](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/social-emotional-workshop/ "Social Emotional Workshop") [ About Laura](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/social-emotional-workshop/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/the-counseling-teacher-brandy/) ## [The Counseling Teacher Brandy](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/the-counseling-teacher-brandy/ "The Counseling Teacher Brandy") [ About Brandy](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/the-counseling-teacher-brandy/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-keri/) ## [Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-keri/ "Counselor Keri") [ About Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-keri/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/speckled-moose-counseling/) ## [Speckled Moose Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/speckled-moose-counseling/ "Speckled Moose Counseling") [ About Gretchen](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/speckled-moose-counseling/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-chelsey/) ## [Counselor Chelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-chelsey/ "Counselor Chelsey") [ About Chelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-chelsey/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/carol-miller-counseling-essentials/) ## [Carol Miller Counseling Essentials](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/carol-miller-counseling-essentials/ "Carol Miller Counseling Essentials") [ About Carol](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/carol-miller-counseling-essentials/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-up/) ## [Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-up/ "Counselor Up") [ About Rebecca](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-up/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/the-responsive-counselor/) ## [The Responsive Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/the-responsive-counselor/ "The Responsive Counselor") [ About Sara](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/the-responsive-counselor/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/edukate-inspire/) ## [EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/edukate-inspire/ "EduKate & Inspire") [ About Kate](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/edukate-inspire/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/pawsitive-school-counselor/) ## [Pawsitive School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/pawsitive-school-counselor/ "Pawsitive School Counselor") [ About Laura](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/pawsitive-school-counselor/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/music-city-counselor/) ## [Music City Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/music-city-counselor/ "Music City Counselor") [ About Laura](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/music-city-counselor/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/mrs-bell-the-crafty-counselor/) ## [Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/mrs-bell-the-crafty-counselor/ "Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor") [ About Ashley](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/mrs-bell-the-crafty-counselor/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/jodi-the-school-counselor-is-in/) ## [The School Counselor Is In](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/jodi-the-school-counselor-is-in/ "The School Counselor Is In") [ About Jodi](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/jodi-the-school-counselor-is-in/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/mental-fills/) ## [Mental Fills](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/mental-fills/ "Mental Fills") [ About Robyn](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/mental-fills/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/school-counselor-stephanie/) ## [School Counselor Stephanie](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/school-counselor-stephanie/ "School Counselor Stephanie") [ About Stephanie](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/school-counselor-stephanie/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/erika-little-miss-counselor/) ## [Little Miss Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/erika-little-miss-counselor/ "Little Miss Counselor") [ About Erika](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/erika-little-miss-counselor/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/school-counseling-files/) ## [School Counseling Files](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/school-counseling-files/ "School Counseling Files") [ About Laurie](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/school-counseling-files/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/the-diy-counselor/) ## [The DIY Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/the-diy-counselor/ "The DIY Counselor") [ About Carla](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/the-diy-counselor/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/school-counseling-confessions/) ## [School Counseling Confessions](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/school-counseling-confessions/ "School Counseling Confessions") [ About Vanessa](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/school-counseling-confessions/)[](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/yanique-kiddie-matters/) ## [Kiddie Matters](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/yanique-kiddie-matters/ "Kiddie Matters") [ About Yanique](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/yanique-kiddie-matters/) --- ### [Confident PD](https://confidentcounselors.com/confident-pd/) **Published:** February 9, 2025 **Author:** Confident Counselors --- ### [Certificate Verification](https://confidentcounselors.com/certificate-verification/) **Published:** October 18, 2024 **Author:** Confident Counselors --- ### [Subscribe](https://confidentcounselors.com/connect/subscribe/) **Published:** May 17, 2022 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** # Made for school counselors Get counseling ideas and resources in your inbox. Be the first to know about conferences and workshops. ### Blog Posts Our site is packed with [helpful articles](https://confidentcounselors.com/blog/) from school counselors. ### Workshops We host conferences and workshops. Subscribe to find out first. ### Connect Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/confidentcounselors/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/confidentcounselors) for quick wins and ideas. --- ### [Guest Posting](https://confidentcounselors.com/connect/guest-posting-confident-counselors/) **Published:** October 30, 2017 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** We love to work with professionals that have expertise and valuable information to provide to school counselors, social workers, and psychologists. ## Why Write a Post for Confident Counselors - The site gets 30k unique users each month looking for quality school counseling ideas. - We share posts and your related resources on our social media channels and with our email list. - Every year, we host virtual professional development events for school counselors. We love when a contributor joins us as a presenter! ## Who Reads Confident Counselors Our audience is mostly school-based mental health professionals looking for anything that makes their jobs easier. Our readers are looking for straight-forward activities, organization hacks, support dealing with tough situations, and more. ## What We Are Looking For We want school counselors to feel confident in their expertise and unique skills. This is a tough job so posts should come with hefty dose of humility and kindness. We love to see posts that empower counselors and help them feel understood. Posts must be useful to school mental health staff. This includes not only digestible strategies, but ensuring that those strategies are based in best practices and current research. Our audience is primarily elementary and middle school, but we are always looking for great high school counseling content. Our readers should be able to gain value from your post without having to buy something. You are welcome to mention or link to up to 2 resources, if it is relevant to your topic. ## What You Will Do - Submit a proofread post that is about 700-1500 words on a topic that is relevant to school counselors. - Publish your post exclusively on Confident Counselors. - Include 2-3 photos that you want to appear in the post. - Share your post with your audience, if applicable. ### Possible Topics ***The list is endless and the best topic is what you know.*** - Growth mindset in counseling - Strategies to support students with anxiety (eg., test anxiety, separation anxiety, social anxiety) - Helping students with a recent loss - Running divorce groups in middle school - Self-control strategies for younger students - Executive function strategies and organizational hacks for middle schoolers - Supporting students in exploring career paths - Incorporating self-regulation in individual counseling - 5 ways to use (common supply) in counseling ## What We Will Do We want to make sure school counselors read your content. This is not a post it and forget it situation. We will handle: - Uploading, editing, and publishing your post on the site. - Creating social media images. - Telling our email list and social media followers all about your post. - Promoting two resources relevant to school counselors on our social media channels. ### Interested? Complete the form and we will be in touch. --- ### [Connect](https://confidentcounselors.com/connect/) **Published:** July 5, 2022 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** ## Get In Touch #### 1 #### [Subscribe](https://confidentcounselors.com/connect/subscribe/) Join our email list for counselor curated content! #### 2 #### [Guest Post](https://confidentcounselors.com/connect/guest-posting-confident-counselors/) Want to write a post for the site? Read about what kind of posts we are looking for and how you can propose a topic. #### 3 #### [Collaborate](https://confidentcounselors.com/connect/collaborations/) We aim to help school counselors feel confident. We are open to partnerships with companies that align with that mission. Get in touch at hello@confidentcounselors.com or send us a message through the contact form. #### 4 #### Something else? Send us a message below and we will get back to you ASAP. #### Send us a message --- ### [Counselor Boost Sale September 2024](https://confidentcounselors.com/counselorboost/) **Published:** August 28, 2024 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** # The Counselor Boost Sale Starts Soon! September 23 – 26 50% Off & $2 Deals ## About the Sale ###### Monday 9/23 ###### 50% Off SEL & Class Lessons ###### Tuesday 9/24 ###### 50% Off Individual & Group Resources ###### Wednesday 9/25 ###### 50% Off Counselor’s Office Resources ###### Thursday 9/26 ###### $2 Deals Resources usually priced $4 – $7 ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/SEW-1-768x1024.jpg "SEW 1")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Sale-Summary-2-1024x1024.png "Sale Summary 2")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/School-Counselor-World1-1024x768.jpg "School Counselor World(1)")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/SEW-2-1024x1024.jpg "SEW 2")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Product-Pic-1024x1024.jpg "Product Pic")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Music-City-Counselor3-1024x1024.jpg "Music City Counselor(3)")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/School-Counselor-World-768x1024.jpg "School Counselor World")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/updated-product-pics-Canvas-14-x-14-in-1-1024x1024.jpg "updated product pics (Canvas (14 x 14 in)) (1)")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Music-City-Counselor2-1024x1024.jpg "Music City Counselor(2)")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Music-City-Counselor-1024x1024.jpg "Music City Counselor")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/IMG_5627_jpg-1024x1024.jpg "IMG_5627_jpg")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Informed-Decisions-1-1024x1024.png "Informed Decisions 1")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Music-City-Counselor1-1024x1024.jpg "Music City Counselor(1)")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/IMG_6587-1024x768.jpg "IMG_6587")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Counseling-Essentials1-1024x1024.jpg "Counseling Essentials1") ### **Tell Us What You Are Looking For** ### I need Comment below with the topics, resources, or tools you want to see this sale! ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/School-Counselor-World1-1024x768.jpg "School Counselor World(1)")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Monday-Promo-Image-1-1024x1024.png "Monday Promo Image")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/School-Counselor-World-768x1024.jpg "School Counselor World")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/updated-product-pics-Canvas-14-x-14-in-1-1024x1024.jpg "updated product pics (Canvas (14 x 14 in)) (1)")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/SEW-2-1024x1024.jpg "SEW 2")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Product-Pic-1024x1024.jpg "Product Pic")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Tuesday-Promo-Image-1-1024x1024.png "Tuesday Promo Image")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Music-City-Counselor3-1024x1024.jpg "Music City Counselor(3)")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/SEW-1-768x1024.jpg "SEW 1")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Wednesday-Promo-Image-1-1024x1024.png "Wednesday Promo Image")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Music-City-Counselor2-1024x1024.jpg "Music City Counselor(2)")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Music-City-Counselor1-1024x1024.jpg "Music City Counselor(1)")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Music-City-Counselor-1024x1024.jpg "Music City Counselor")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Informed-Decisions-1-1024x1024.png "Informed Decisions 1")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/IMG_6587-1024x768.jpg "IMG_6587")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/IMG_5627_jpg-1024x1024.jpg "IMG_5627_jpg")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Counseling-Essentials3-1024x1024.jpg "Counseling Essentials3")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Thursday-Promo-Image-1-1024x1024.png "Thursday Promo Image")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/RAW-Challenging-Negative-Thoughts-Just-Right-Sort-13-1024x768.jpg "RAW | Challenging Negative Thoughts | Just Right Sort 13") ###### \#counselorboost ## Make the Most of the Sale ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/1-2-1024x576.png "1")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/2-2-1024x576.png "2")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/3-2-1024x576.png "3")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/4-2-1024x576.png "4")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/1-1-1024x1024.png "1")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/2-1-1024x1024.png "2")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/3-1-1024x1024.png "3")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/4-1-1024x1024.png "4")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/edukate-and-inspire-1024x1024.png "edukate and inspire")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Counselor-Station-4.png "Counselor Station 4")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Monday-Promo-Image-1-1024x1024.png "Monday Promo Image")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Counselor-Station-3.png "Counselor Station 3")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/EduKate-and-Inspire-Build-Your-Own-Counseling-Game-1024x1024.jpg "EduKate and Inspire - Build Your Own Counseling Game")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Counselor-Station-2.png "Counselor Station 2")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Counselor-Station-1.png "Counselor Station 1")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Tuesday-Promo-Image-1-1024x1024.png "Tuesday Promo Image")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Counselor-Clique-5-1024x1024.png "Counselor Clique 5")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Bright-Futures-Group-1024x1024.jpg "Bright Futures Group")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Counselor-Clique-3-1024x683.jpg "Counselor Clique 3")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Bright-Futures-Class-Lesson--1024x1024.jpg "Bright Futures Class Lesson")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Counseling-Essentials2-1024x1024.jpg "Counseling Essentials2")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Wednesday-Promo-Image-1-1024x1024.png "Wednesday Promo Image")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ACS_11291-2-1024x768.jpg "ACS_11291 (2)")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ACS_2591-1024x1024.jpg "ACS_2591")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ACS_1135-1024x1024.jpg "ACS_1135")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Counselor-Clique-1-1024x1024.png "Counselor Clique 1")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Thursday-Promo-Image-1-1024x1024.png "Thursday Promo Image") Customers served! 1+ counseling resources Customers served! 1days of incredible deals Customers served! 1+ participating stores ## So Many Happy Counselors September 23 – 26 Give your counseling program a boost with four days of incredible deals from over 30 stores! ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Sale-Summary-2.png "Sale Summary 2")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ACS_1135-1024x1024.jpg "ACS_1135")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Monday-Promo-Image-1024x1024.png "Monday Promo Image")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Counselor-Clique-1-1024x1024.png "Counselor Clique 1")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Counselor-Station-1.png "Counselor Station 1")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Tuesday-Promo-Image-1024x1024.png "Tuesday Promo Image")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/edukate-and-inspire-1024x1024.png "edukate and inspire")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Informed-Decisions-1-1024x1024.png "Informed Decisions 1")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Wednesday-Promo-Image-1024x1024.png "Wednesday Promo Image")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/SEW-2-1024x1024.jpg "SEW 2")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Thursday-Promo-Image-1024x1024.png "Thursday Promo Image")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Counseling-Essentials1-1024x1024.jpg "Counseling Essentials1")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/IMG_5627_jpg-1024x1024.jpg "IMG_5627_jpg") SALE SALE ## \#counselorboost ON TPT #### **Don’t Miss It! The deals change every day!** ### \#CounselorBoost Sale on TPT ### September 23 to 26, 2024 --- ### [Counseling in 2024 Sale](https://confidentcounselors.com/counseling-in-2024-sale/) **Published:** December 28, 2023 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** Customers served! 1+ counseling resources Customers served! 1days of incredible deals Customers served! 1+ participating stores Customers served! 1\* Fresh Start January 8 to 11 **Search #counselingin2024** on TPT. Find incredible deals on counseling resources that will give you a fresh start for the new year! #### **Don’t forget! The deals change every day!** --- ### [Counselor Cheers Sale](https://confidentcounselors.com/counselor-cheers-sale/) **Published:** December 27, 2022 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** Ugh! You missed it this time! See you in July for our Counselor Summer Sale! ## New Deals Every Day ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Copy-of-COT-Winter-2022-Sale-Landing-Page.png "Copy of COT Winter 2022 Sale Landing Page") ## get the most out of the sale - **Bookmark this page**. Come back each day to find the day’s deals. - Get it before it’s gone! **The deals change everyday**. - **Follow participating stores** and see the latest resources all year! - ****Leave feedback**** on previous purchases and earn credits. - You can’t buy it all, right? Make sure to **wishlist resources** you want to get later. - **Enter the giveaway** above for a chance to win a $10 TPT gift card! [COUNSELOR CHEERS SALE](https://bit.ly/counselorcheers) ## Over 30 Participating Stores ![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/18047_AT_Logo_smallm-All-Therapy-Resources-300x290.png "18047_AT_Logo_smallm - All Therapy Resources")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Untitled-500-x-500-px-Rachel-Davis-300x300.png "Untitled (500 x 500 px) - Rachel Davis")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Logo-photo-Carol-Miller-300x300.png "Logo photo - Carol Miller")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Store-Logo-Amy-Flores.jpeg "Store Logo - Amy Flores")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Counseling-with-Sandi-logo-transparent-background-Sandi-V-300x300.png "Counseling with Sandi logo transparent background - Sandi V")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/CW_Alternate-Logo-TPT-Chelsey-Wilson-300x300.png "CW_Alternate Logo TPT - Chelsey Wilson")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/counselor-clique-circle-logo-Counselor-Clique-300x300.png "counselor-clique-circle-logo - Counselor Clique")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/322825049_740309950787406_5650400718605107085_n-300x300.jpg "322825049_740309950787406_5650400718605107085_n")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Counselor-Katie-Logo-2021-Counselor-Katie-300x300.png "Counselor Katie Logo 2021 - Counselor Katie")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/2165110-Counselor-Keri.jpeg "2165110 - Counselor Keri")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Counselor-on-the-Go-logo23-300x300.png "Counselor on the Go logo23")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Ashley-Bartley-Counselor-Station-Ashley-Bartley-300x300.jpeg "Ashley Bartley - Counselor Station - Ashley Bartley")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Logo-The-Charismatic-Counselor-Nikki-Ohms-300x300.jpg "Logo - The Charismatic Counselor - Nikki Ohms")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/DNE-2-Erin-Nation-300x300.png "DNE (2) - Erin Nation")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Blog-Button-Kate-Bailin-300x300.png "Blog Button - Kate Bailin")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Heart-and-mind-teaching-store-Ashley-Amely-290x300.png "Heart-and-mind-teaching-store - Ashley Amely")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IDBranding-01-Informed-Decisions-300x300.png "IDBranding-01 - Informed Decisions")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/81F5E3E5-7B18-4DF8-A7F3-E4A2401E2E6E-Kylie-Kate.jpeg "81F5E3E5-7B18-4DF8-A7F3-E4A2401E2E6E - Kylie Kate")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Store-Logo-Molly-Mooney-300x300.png "Store Logo - Molly Mooney")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Mindful-Learners-2-Melissa-Shrout-294x300.png "Mindful Learners 2 - Melissa Shrout")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/E6546C5F-D05B-4584-8081-33C7280115D5-Molly-Kangas.jpeg "E6546C5F-D05B-4584-8081-33C7280115D5 - Molly Kangas")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/blogbutton2-Mrs.-Bell-The-Crafty-Counselor.png "blogbutton2 - Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/New-photo-logo-Laura-Oathout-300x300.png "New photo logo - Laura Oathout")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Pawsitive-School-Counselor-New-300x300.png "Pawsitive School Counselor New")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/A8814CCA-5C10-4EC0-87B1-89E312D273B5-Hollie-McCoy-249x300.jpeg "A8814CCA-5C10-4EC0-87B1-89E312D273B5 - Hollie McCoy")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/My-Brand-LOGO-Robin-Zorn-300x262.png "My Brand LOGO - Robin Zorn")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/SvySchCounselor-Vanessa-Allen-300x300.jpg "SvySchCounselor - Vanessa Allen")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Logo2-School-Counselor-World-300x300.png "Logo2 - School Counselor World")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/BlogButton-1a-Jessica-Woody-300x300.png "BlogButton-1a - Jessica Woody")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/SEW-Logo-2020-300x300.png "SEW Logo 2020")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/SMC-logo-Gretchen-Rose-300x300.png "SMC logo - Gretchen Rose")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/2965290-Lisa-Bundrick.jpg "2965290 - Lisa Bundrick")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/SSC-Logo-Kaylei-Jones-300x300.png "SSC Logo - Kaylei Jones")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Slide3-Brandy-Thompson-300x300.jpeg "Slide3 - Brandy Thompson")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/diy-counselor-carla-logo-Carla-Christian-300x300.png "diy counselor carla logo - Carla Christian")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/New-Photo-Logo-Sara-Cottrill-Carlo-300x300.png "New Photo Logo - Sara Cottrill-Carlo")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/The-School-Counselor-Is-In.jpeg "The School Counselor Is In")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/TZ_CircleLogo-Wendy-Baker-300x300.jpg "TZ_CircleLogo - Wendy Baker")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/kimberlita-logo2-Kimberlita-Casper-300x300.png "kimberlita logo2 - Kimberlita Casper")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Whole-Child-Counseling-Transparent-Casey-Obrien-300x300.png "Whole Child Counseling Transparent - Casey Obrien")![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/WholeHeated-School-Counseling-Logo-WholeHearted-School-Counseling-300x300.png "WholeHeated School Counseling Logo - WholeHearted School Counseling") ### Counselor Cheers Sale ### January 8 to January 11 --- ### [Contributors](https://confidentcounselors.com/contributors/) **Published:** July 15, 2022 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** Many people have contributed to this website and we are thankful to them all for their hard work. [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Logo-photo-Carol-Miller-150x150.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/carol-miller-counseling-essentials/) [ Carol Miller Counseling Essentials](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/carol-miller-counseling-essentials/) School Counselor[](https://counselingessentials.org/) [](https://counselingessentials.org/) [](https://www.instagram.com/counselingessentials/) [](https://www.facebook.com/themiddleschoolcounselor/) [![Counselor Traci R. Brown](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/13936603_10104635303217023_2143569773_n.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/college-counselor-traci/) [ College Counselor Traci](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/college-counselor-traci/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/2-1.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/confident-counselors/) [ Confident Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/confident-counselors/) [Confident Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com) [](https://www.instagram.com/confidentcounselors/) [](https://www.facebook.com/confidentcounselors) [](https://www.pinterest.com/confidentcounselors/) [](https://confidentcounselors.com) [![Counseling Wisdom](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/golden.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counseling-wisdom/) [ Counseling Wisdom](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counseling-wisdom/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/CW_Alternate-Logo-TPT-Chelsey-Wilson-150x150.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-chelsey/) [ Counselor Chelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-chelsey/) Curriculum Developer, Social Worker, Counselor [](https://www.counselorchelsey.com/) [](https://www.instagram.com/counselorchelsey/) [](https://www.facebook.com/@CounselorChelsey) [](https://www.pinterest.com/CounselorChels/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/CounselorCorner.jpg)](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-corner/) [ Counselor Corner](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-corner/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Counselor-Katie-Logo-2021-Counselor-Katie-150x150.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-katie/) [ Counselor Katie](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-katie/) [](https://www.instagram.com/counselor_katie_/) [](https://www.facebook.com/counselorkatiekc/) [](https://www.pinterest.com/kessenkatie/) [![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4a11b384471e8b45def4c9c1485d0239398e93fc50f06065d54006c50cc0deb9?s=150&d=mp&r=g)](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-keri/) [ Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-keri/) School & Mental Health Counselor at [Hawaii](http://counselorkeri.com/) [](https://www.instagram.com/counselorkeri/) [](https://www.facebook.com/counselorkeri) [](https://www.youtube.com/@CounselorKeri) [](https://www.counselorkeri.com/) [![](https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Picture1.png)](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-up/) [ Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-up/) School Counselor, Director of School Counseling [](https://www.instagram.com/counselorupblog) [](https://www.pinterest.com/counselorup/) 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[Collaborations](https://confidentcounselors.com/connect/collaborations/) **Published:** July 5, 2022 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** We are open to opportunities to collaborate with brands that align with our mission. We aim to help school counselors feel confident in their roles by providing - actionable ideas, - practical professional development, and - understanding of what is asked of them. If you think this might be a good fit, send me an email at hello@confidentcounselors.com. We will forward along a partnership kit and we can chat. Thanks! [ ](https://www.facebook.com/confidentcounselors)[ ](https://www.pinterest.com/ConfidentCounselors/_created/)[ ](https://www.instagram.com/confidentcounselors/) --- ### [Contact Us](https://confidentcounselors.com/connect/contact-us/) **Published:** June 27, 2016 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** ## Get In Touch hello@confidentcounselors.com [ ](https://www.facebook.com/confidentcounselors)[ ](https://www.instagram.com/confidentcounselors/)[ ](https://www.pinterest.com/ConfidentCounselors/_created/) --- ### [Privacy Policy](https://confidentcounselors.com/legal/privacy-policy/) **Published:** May 17, 2018 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** ## CONFIDENT COUNSELORS PRIVACY POLICY *Updated 5/17/2018* #### **INTRODUCTION** This privacy notice provides you with details of how we collect and process your personal data through your use of our site, confidentcounselors.com. **Social Emotional Workshop, LTD** is the owner of Confident Counselors, data controller and we are responsible for your personal data (referred to as “we”, “us” or “our” in this privacy notice). #### **CONTACT DETAILS** Our full details are: Social Emotional Workshop, LTD 1732 1st Ave, #29636, New York, NY 10128 It is very important that the information we hold about you is accurate and up to date. Please let us know if at any time your personal information changes by emailing us at . #### **CHILDREN UNDER 13 YEARS OF AGE** Our Website is not intended for children under 13 years of age. No one under age 13 may provide any information to or on the Website. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you are under 13, do not use or provide any information on this Website or on or through any of its features/register on the Website, make any purchases through the Website, use any of the interactive or public comment features of this Website or provide any information about yourself to us, including your name, address, telephone number, email address, or any screen name or user name you may use. If we learn we have collected or received personal information from a child under 13 without verification of parental consent, we will delete that information. If you believe we might have any information from or about a child under 13, please contact us at. #### **INFORMATION WE COLLECT ABOUT YOU** Personal data means any information capable of identifying an individual. It does not include anonymized data. We may process the following categories of personal data about you: - **Communication Data** that includes any communication that you send to us whether that be through the contact form on our website, through email, text, social media messaging, social media posting or any other communication that you send us. We process this data for the purposes of communicating with you, for record keeping and for the establishment, pursuance or defense of legal claims. Our lawful ground for this processing is our legitimate interests which in this case are to reply to communications sent to us, to keep records and to establish, pursue or defend legal claims. - **Customer Data** that includes data relating to any purchases of goods and/or services such as your name, title, billing address, delivery address email address, phone number, contact details, purchase details and your card details. We process this data to supply the goods and/or services you have purchased and to keep records of such transactions. Our lawful ground for this processing is the performance of a contract between you and us and/or taking steps at your request to enter into such a contract. - **User Data** that includes data about how you use our website and any online services together with any data that you post for publication on our website or through other online services. We process this data to operate our website and ensure relevant content is provided to you, to ensure the security of our website, to maintain back-ups of our website and/or databases and to enable publication and administration of our website, other online services, and business. Our lawful ground for this processing is our legitimate interests which in this case are to enable us to properly administer our website and our business. - **Technical Data** that includes data about your use of our website and online services such as your IP address, your login data, details about your browser, length of visit to pages on our website, page views and navigation paths, details about the number of times you use our website, time zone settings and other technology on the devices you use to access our website. The source of this data is from our analytics tracking system. We process this data to analyze your use of our website and other online services, to administer and protect our business and website, to deliver relevant website content and advertisements to you and to understand the effectiveness of our advertising. Our lawful ground for this processing is our legitimate interests which in this case are to enable us to properly administer our website and our business and to grow our business and to decide our marketing strategy. - **Marketing Data** that includes data about your preferences in receiving marketing from us and our third parties and your communication preferences. We process this data to enable you to partake in our promotions such as competitions, prize draws and free giveaways, to deliver relevant website content and advertisements to you and measure or understand the effectiveness of this advertising. Our lawful ground for this processing is our legitimate interests which in this case are to study how customers use our products/services, to develop them, to grow our business and to decide our marketing strategy. - We may use Customer Data, User Data, Technical Data and Marketing Data to deliver relevant website content and advertisements to you (including Facebook advertisements or other display advertisements) and to measure or understand the effectiveness of the advertising we serve you. Our lawful ground for this processing is legitimate interests which is to grow our business. We may also use such data to send other marketing communications to you. Our lawful ground for this processing is either consent or legitimate interests (namely to grow our business). #### **SENSITIVE DATA** We do not collect any Sensitive Data about you. Sensitive data refers to data that includes details about your race or ethnicity, religious or philosophical beliefs, sex life, sexual orientation, political opinions, trade union membership, information about your health and genetic and biometric data. We do not collect any information about criminal convictions and offenses. Where we are required to collect personal data by law, or under the terms of the contract between us and you do not provide us with that data when requested, we may not be able to perform the contract (for example, to deliver goods or services to you). If you don’t provide us with the requested data, we may have to cancel a product or service you have ordered but if we do, we will notify you at the time. We will only use your personal data for a purpose it was collected for or a reasonably compatible purpose if necessary. For more information on this please email us at . In case we need to use your details for an unrelated new purpose we will let you know and explain the legal grounds for processing. We may process your personal data without your knowledge or consent where this is required or permitted by law. We do not carry out automated decision making or any type of automated profiling. #### **HOW WE COLLECT YOUR PERSONAL DATA** We may collect data about you by you providing the data directly to us (for example by filling in forms on our site or by sending us emails). We may automatically collect certain data from you as you use our website by using cookies and similar technologies. Please see [our cookie policy](https://confidentcounselors.com/cookie-policy) for more details about this. We may receive data from third parties such as analytics providers (i.e., Google), advertising networks (i.e., Facebook), search information providers (i.e., Google), and providers of technical, payment and delivery services (i.e., data brokers or aggregators). When visitors leave comments on the site we collect the data shown in the comments form, and also the visitor’s IP address and browser user agent string to help spam detection. An anonymized string created from your email address (also called a hash) may be provided to the Gravatar service to see if you are using it. The Gravatar service privacy policy is available here: https://automattic.com/privacy/. After approval of your comment, your profile picture is visible to the public in the context of your comment. We may also receive data from publicly available sources. The Company collects your information in order to record and support your participation in the activities you select. If you register to download a book or resources, sign up for our newsletter, and/or purchase a product from us, we collect your information. We use this information to track your preferences and to keep you informed about the products and services you have selected to receive and any related products and/or services. As a visitor to this Website, you can engage in most activities without providing any personal information. It is only when you seek to download resources and/or register for services that you are required to provide information. If you are outside the European Union and opt to receive any free resources or purchase any products sold by the Company on this Website, we will automatically enroll you to receive our free email newsletter. If you do not wish to receive this newsletter, you can unsubscribe anytime. We include an “unsubscribe” link at the bottom of every email we send. If you ever have trouble unsubscribing, you can send an email to requesting to unsubscribe from future emails. If you are in the European Union and opt to receive any free resources, participate in any free training programs, or purchase any products sold by the Company on this Website, we will only enroll you to receive our free email newsletter if you affirmatively consent to it. If you do not wish to receive this newsletter, you can unsubscribe anytime. We include an “unsubscribe” link at the bottom of every email we send. If you ever have trouble unsubscribing, you can send an email to requesting to unsubscribe from future emails. #### **MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS** Our lawful ground of processing your personal data to send you marketing communications is either your consent or our legitimate interests, namely to grow our business. We are committed to keeping your e-mail address confidential. We do not sell, rent, or lease our subscription lists to third parties, and will not disclose your email address to any third parties except as allowed in the section titled Disclosure of Your Information. We will maintain the information you send via e-mail in accordance with applicable federal law. Under the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations, we may send you marketing communications from us if (i) you made a purchase or asked for information from us about our goods or services or (ii) you agreed to receive marketing communications and in each case you have not opted out of receiving such communications since. Under these regulations, if you are a limited company, we may send you marketing emails without your consent. However, you can still opt out of receiving marketing emails from us at any time. In compliance with the CAN-SPAM Act, all e-mails sent from our organization will clearly state who the e-mail is from and provide clear information on how to contact the sender. In addition, all e-mail messages will also contain concise information on how to remove yourself from our mailing list so that you receive no further e-mail communication from us. Before we share your personal data with any third party for their own marketing purposes we will get your express consent. You can ask us or third parties to stop sending you marketing messages at any time by following the opt-out links on any marketing message sent to you or by emailing us at at any time. If you opt out of receiving marketing communications, this opt-out does not apply to personal data provided as a result of other transactions, such as purchases. #### **DISCLOSURES OF YOUR PERSONAL DATA** We may have to share your personal data with the parties set out below: - Confident Counselors, another group run by Social Emotional Workshop, LTD. - Service providers who provide IT and system administration services. - Professional advisers including lawyers, bankers, auditors and insurers - Government bodies that require us to report processing activities. - Market researchers analyzing our site and customer behavior. - Third parties to whom we sell, transfer, or merge parts of our business or our assets. We require all third parties to whom we transfer your data to respect the security of your personal data and to treat it in accordance with the law. We only allow such third parties to process your personal data for specified purposes and in accordance with our instructions. #### **DATA SECURITY** We have put in place security measures to prevent your personal data from being accidentally lost, used, altered, disclosed, or accessed without authorization. We also allow access to your personal data only to those employees and partners who have a business need to know such data. They will only process your personal data on our instructions and they must keep it confidential. We have procedures in place to deal with any suspected personal data breach and will notify you and any applicable regulator of a breach if we are legally required to. #### **DATA RETENTION** We will only retain your personal data for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes we collected it for, including for the purposes of satisfying any legal, accounting, or reporting requirements. We will review email subscriber data at least yearly. We will eliminate any inactive subscribers at that time. When deciding what the correct time is to keep the data for we look at its amount, nature and sensitivity, the potential risk of harm from unauthorized use or disclosure, the processing purposes, if these can be achieved by other means and legal requirements. For tax purposes, the law requires us to keep basic information about our customers (including Contact, Identity, Financial and Transaction Data) for six years after they stop being customers. In some circumstances, we may anonymize your personal data for research or statistical purposes in which case we may use this information indefinitely without further notice to you. ### **EU SUBSCRIBERS** #### **INTERNATIONAL TRANSFERS** We are subject to the provisions of the General Data Protection Regulations that protect your personal data. Where we transfer your data to third parties outside of the EEA, we will ensure that certain safeguards are in place to ensure a similar degree of security for your personal data. As such: - We may transfer your personal data to countries that the European Commission have approved as providing an adequate level of protection for personal data by; or - If we use US-based providers that are part of EU-US Privacy Shield, we may transfer data to them, as they have equivalent safeguards in place; or - Where we use certain service providers who are established outside of the EEA, we may use specific contracts or codes of conduct or certification mechanisms approved by the European Commission which give personal data the same protection it has in Europe. If none of the above safeguards is available, we may request your explicit consent to the specific transfer. You will have the right to withdraw this consent at any time. #### **YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS** If you are within the European Union, you are entitled to certain information and have certain rights under the General Data Protection Regulation. Those rights include: We will retain any information you choose to provide to us until the earlier of: (a) you asking us to delete the information, (b) our decision to cease using our existing data providers, or (c) the Company decides that the value in retaining the data is outweighed by the costs of retaining it. You have the right to request access to your data that the Company stores and the rights to either rectify or erase your personal data. You have the right to seek restrictions on the processing of your data. You have the right to object to the processing of your data and the right to the portability of your data. To the extent that you provided consent to the Company’s processing of your personal data, you have the right to withdraw that consent at any time, without affecting the lawfulness of processing based upon consent that occurred prior to your withdrawal of consent. You have the right to lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority that has jurisdiction over issues related to the General Data Protection Regulation. We require only the information that is reasonably required to enter into a contract with you. We will not require you to provide consent for any unnecessary processing as a condition of entering into a contract with us. If you wish to exercise any of the rights set out above, please email us at . You will not have to pay a fee to access your personal data (or to exercise any of the other rights). However, we may charge a reasonable fee if your request is clearly unfounded, repetitive or excessive or refuse to comply with your request in these circumstances. We may need to request specific information from you to help us confirm your identity and ensure your right to access your personal data (or to exercise any of your other rights). This is a security measure to ensure that personal data is not disclosed to any person who has no right to receive it. We may also contact you to ask you for further information in relation to your request to speed up our response. We try to respond to all legitimate requests within one month. Occasionally it may take us longer than a month if your request is particularly complex or you have made a number of requests. In this case, we will notify you. #### **THIRD-PARTY LINKS** This website may include links to third-party websites, plug-ins, and applications. Clicking on those links or enabling those connections may allow third parties to collect or share data about you. We do not control these third-party websites and are not responsible for their privacy statements. When you leave our website, we encourage you to read the privacy notice of every website you visit. #### **COOKIES** You can set your browser to refuse all or some browser cookies or to alert you when websites set or access cookies. If you disable or refuse cookies, please note that some parts of this website may become inaccessible or not function properly. For more information about the cookies we use, please see our [Cookie Policy](https://confidentcounselors.com/cookie-policy). --- ### [Terms & Conditions](https://confidentcounselors.com/legal/terms-conditions/) **Published:** May 22, 2018 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** **TERMS & CONDITIONS** Last Updated: 5/22/2018 Social Emotional Workshop, LTD. (“I” or “me”) owns and operates [confidentcounselors.com](https://confidentcounselors.com) (“blog”). Please read these Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) carefully before using this blog, as these Terms apply to all visitors. By visiting this blog, you agree to be bound by these Terms. **Blog Content** I am the owner of all information on this website, including any and all copyrights, trademarks, design rights and other intellectual property rights related to the content and work product on this blog. Information on this blog may only be copied for personal use and no part may be reproduced, reused or reposted without my permission. Requests for permission should be addressed to the following email: support@confidentcounselors.com. You may link back to this blog, as long as you clearly give credit to me as the author and include a hyperlink to this blog. All blog content is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional or specific advice. We make every effort to only provide complete and accurate information, but am not responsible or liable for any inaccuracies. I am not responsible for your reliance on information presented on this blog and shall not be liable for any damages or harm. **Blog Comments** Blog comments will be publicly available to other blog visitors. You own the rights to content you post on this blog, but agree to give a license so that this content can be shared on the blog. I reserve the right to remove any content that I determine to be unlawful, inappropriate, offensive or otherwise objectionable or violates any party’s intellectual property or these Terms. If any user generated content is found to be copyright infringement, we will respond to and comply with any DMCA Take Down Notices. **Privacy Policy** While using this blog, you may provide certain personally identifiable information, such as your name, email address or demographic data gathered through the use of “cookies.” I only collect information solely for the purposes of analysis of content performance and for demographic research. This blog may use advertisers and those advertisers may collect, use, store and disclose data and information collected from visitors. My advertising partners include Amazon.com. Each of these advertising partners has their own privacy policy for their site, which you can review at each of their sites. I do not sell, trade or share your personal information. Your email address used to leave blog comments will solely be used to respond to your comment. If you choose to opt in to my email newsletter, you may opt out at any time. My newsletter is managed through an email list management provider. Please read more about my [privacy policy](https://confidentcounselors.com/privacy-policy). **Links to Other Web Sites** This blog may contain links to third-party websites that I do not control. Once you leave my blog, you are no longer governed by these Terms. I assume no responsibility for the content or practices of any third party websites. **Affiliate Links** This blog may include “affiliate links” where I will receive a small commission if you make a purchase after clicking the link. However, all opinions are my own and I only endorse companies and products that I genuinely recommend. **Governing Law** If any part of these Terms is held to be invalid or unenforceable, that portion will be construed with applicable law and the remaining portions will remain in full force and effect. These Terms are governed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York and the United States. **Termination** I reserve the right to terminate any users for abuse of these Terms. I reserve the right to remove unlawful, obscene, inappropriate or otherwise undesirable shares or comments on my blog or social media channels. **Updates** These Terms and Conditions may change from time to time and all updates will be posted on this page. **Questions and Contact Information** If you have any questions about these Terms, please contact me at: support@confidentcounselors.com --- ### [Disclaimer Statement](https://confidentcounselors.com/legal/disclaimer-statement/) **Published:** May 22, 2018 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** Last updated: 5/22/2018 Please read this disclaimer (“Disclaimer”) carefully. I reserve the right to make modifications to this Disclaimer on the Website at any time without notice. By using the Website, you are agreeing to the Disclaimer as it appears, whether or not you have read it. If you do not agree with this Disclaimer, please discontinue use of this Website. The information provided on this blog does not constitute professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a replacement for supervision for mental health practitioners, school counselor, school psychologists or other professionals working with children. Always consult with qualified professionals directly when considering a treatment plan or program. Confident Counselors (CC) is a collaborative blog owned and operated by Social Emotional Workshop, LTD. The content is contributed by bloggers familiar with school counseling. The opinions in each post are solely those of the author and do not reflect the opinions and positions of Social Emotional Workshop, LTD or Confident Counselors. Confident Counselors (CC) does not provide or dispense mental health advice directly or indirectly as part of this website. This website is for informational purposes only and is not considered direct professional support or advice. SEW assumes no liability for any diagnosis, treatment, or program development made in reliance on information provided on confidentcounselors.com. SEW does not assume any responsibility or risk for your use of this website. SEW does not guarantee any results based on the information contained on this website. Information provided on this blog is accurate to the best of my knowledge. Social Emotional Workshop may make changes to this website and its content at any time. --- ### [Cookie Policy](https://confidentcounselors.com/legal/cookie-policy/) **Published:** May 17, 2018 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** ## **COOKIE POLICY** *Updated 5/17/2018* #### **WHAT’S A COOKIE?** A “cookie” is a piece of information that is stored on your computer’s hard drive and which records how you move your way around a website so that, when you revisit that website, it can present tailored options based on the information stored about your last visit. Cookies can also be used to analyze traffic and for advertising and marketing purposes. Cookies are used by nearly all websites and do not harm your system. If you want to check or change what types of cookies you accept, this can usually be altered within your browser settings. You can block cookies at any time by activating the setting on your browser that allows you to refuse the setting of all or some cookies. However, if you use your browser settings to block all cookies (including essential cookies) you may not be able to access all or parts of our site. #### **USE OF COOKIES AND PIXELS** Similar to other commercial websites, our website utilizes a standard technology called “cookies” and server logs to collect information about how our site is used. Information gathered through cookies and server logs may include the date and time of visits, the pages viewed, time spent at our site, and the websites visited just before and just after our own, as well as your IP address. A cookie is a very small text document, which often includes an anonymous unique identifier. When you visit a website, that site’s computer asks your computer for permission to store this file in a part of your hard drive specifically designated for cookies. Each website can send its own cookie to your browser if your browser’s preferences allow it, but (to protect your privacy) your browser only permits a website to access the cookies it has already sent to you, not the cookies sent to you by other sites. We use cookies to track your use of our website. This enables us to understand how you use the site and track any patterns with regards how you are using our website. This helps us to develop and improve our website as well as products and / or services in response to what you might need or want. The Company reserves the right to use technological equivalents of cookies, including social media pixels. These pixels allow social media sites to track visitors to outside websites so as to tailor advertising messages users see while visiting that social media website. The Company reserves the right to use these pixels in compliance with the policies of the various social media sites. #### **EMBEDDED CONTENT FROM OTHER WEBSITES** Articles on this site may include embedded content (e.g. videos, images, articles, etc.). Embedded content from other websites behaves in the exact same way as if the visitor has visited the other website. These websites may collect data about you, use cookies, embed additional third-party tracking, and monitor your interaction with that embedded content, including tracking your interaction with the embedded content if you have an account and are logged in to that website. #### **THIRD PARTY USE OF COOKIES** Some content or applications, including advertisements, on the Website are served by third-parties, including advertisers, ad networks and servers, content providers, and application providers. These third parties may use cookies alone or in conjunction with web beacons or other tracking technologies to collect information about you when you use our website. The information they collect may be associated with your personal information or they may collect information, including personal information, about your online activities over time and across different websites and other online services. They may use this information to provide you with interest-based (behavioral) advertising or other targeted content. We do not control these third parties’ tracking technologies or how they may be used. If you have any questions about an advertisement or other targeted content, you should contact the responsible provider directly. --- ### [Legal](https://confidentcounselors.com/legal/) **Published:** July 5, 2022 **Author:** Confident Counselors --- ### [Blog Post Submission Guide & Video](https://confidentcounselors.com/cc-contributor/blog-post-submission-guide/) **Published:** June 16, 2018 **Author:** Confident Counselors **Content:** This page will lead you through putting your post into WordPress. At the bottom of the page is a screencast of me putting a post in if video is more your medium. Message me with any questions. [ ](https://giphy.com/gifs/liz-lemon-lets-do-this-zaezT79s3Ng7C) #### Step 1: Log in Go to https://confidentcounselors.com/wp-login.php and enter your **login** information. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Screen-Shot-2018-06-16-at-5.48.00-PM.png "Screen Shot 2018-06-16 at 5.48.00 PM") #### Step 2: Posts Click **Posts** in the left sidebar. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Screen-Shot-2018-06-16-at-5.52.45-PM.png "Screen Shot 2018-06-16 at 5.52.45 PM") #### Step 3: Find Your Post **Click Pitch** and find you post. Your working title and publish date are there. Adjust your title, as needed. If it isn’t there, go ahead and add a new post. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Screen-Shot-2018-06-16-at-5.52.50-PM.png "Screen Shot 2018-06-16 at 5.52.50 PM") #### Step 4: Focus Keyword Scroll down and add your **Focus Keyword**. This should be what someone would search on Google to find the content in your post. This focus keyword should also be found throughout your post. **Bad keyword**: small group counseling. **Good keyword**: small group counseling activities. **Better keyword**: small group counseling anxiety strategies. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Screen-Shot-2018-06-16-at-6.03.45-PM.png "Screen Shot 2018-06-16 at 6.03.45 PM") #### Step 5: Snippet Click **Edit Snippet** above the Focus Keyword. Write a brief description of your blog post naturally using keywords. This text will show up under the title of your post on Google. *“10 anxiety strategies to use during small group counseling or individual counseling. Mindfulness, deep breaths, and grounding are strategies school counselors can use to support students struggling with anxiety.”* ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Screen-Shot-2018-06-16-at-6.06.50-PM.png "Screen Shot 2018-06-16 at 6.06.50 PM") #### Step 6: Add Images Add all your post and social media images at once by clicking **Add Media**. Once the images upload, add alt text and Pinterest descriptions. These can be the same, should contain keywords, and summarize your blog post in 2-3 sentences. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Screen-Shot-2018-06-16-at-6.09.40-PM.png "Screen Shot 2018-06-16 at 6.09.40 PM")![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Screen-Shot-2018-06-16-at-6.10.06-PM.png "Screen Shot 2018-06-16 at 6.10.06 PM")![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Screen-Shot-2018-06-16-at-6.09.57-PM.png "Screen Shot 2018-06-16 at 6.09.57 PM") #### Step 7: Feature Image Locate the **feature image box** on the right sidebar. Select your image that is 1200px by 628 px. This can be the same as your facebook image or ideally an image with less or no text. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Screen-Shot-2018-06-16-at-6.21.30-PM.png "Screen Shot 2018-06-16 at 6.21.30 PM") #### Step 8: Facebook Image Locate the Yoast panel again and go to the social tab. Add a **Facebook image**. This is the image that will populate when someone shares the post on Facebook. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Screen-Shot-2018-06-16-at-6.21.44-PM.png "Screen Shot 2018-06-16 at 6.21.44 PM") #### Step 9: Add Post Text Paste your post text in. - Use **headers** for sections. If it makes sense, include keywords in the headers. - Leave **1 space** after a period - Add in **hyperlinks** to resources, other posts, etc. - Use **UTMs and bit.ly** links so you can track the traffic you are getting from the site. - **Break up paragraphs** so they are easier to read and skim. - Add any **images** into your post. This a great opportunity to show off related resources in a natural way. #### Step 10: Pinterest Image Add your **Pinterest image** into your post, either at the bottom or within the post by selecting add media. It will insert the image wherever you cursor is. You can also add a second image or hide you Pinterest image using the **Tasty Pins** plugin. Scroll down under the checklist to find this option. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Screen-Shot-2018-06-16-at-6.32.37-PM.png "Screen Shot 2018-06-16 at 6.32.37 PM")![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Screen-Shot-2018-06-16-at-6.30.58-PM.png "Screen Shot 2018-06-16 at 6.30.58 PM") #### Step 11: Select Author Locate the **author box** below the checklist. Find your name and select it. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Screen-Shot-2018-06-16-at-6.34.00-PM.png "Screen Shot 2018-06-16 at 6.34.00 PM") #### Step 12: Pending Review When you are done, change your post to **pending review** and save it. ![](//confidentcounselors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Screen-Shot-2018-06-16-at-6.34.34-PM.png "Screen Shot 2018-06-16 at 6.34.34 PM") Woot Woot! You are done. When posts are listed as **pending review**, editors will know that they can review and schedule posts. Want a checklist now that you know the steps? There is one embedded in wordpress. This is a [checklist](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1V-YozA5m3ch-TfHlX-eacF1ZJfj4E4AI/view?usp=sharing) in our collaborative drive too 🙂 ##### Rather watch a video on how to do this? --- ### [Apprentice registration page](https://confidentcounselors.com/apprentice-registration-page/) **Published:** May 22, 2018 **Author:** Confident Counselors --- ## Author Bios ### [Social Emotional Workshop](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/social-emotional-workshop/) **Published:** November 11, 2024 **Author:** Laura @ Social Emotional Workshop **Content:** ### Read ### Shop ## Articles from Laura ## [What counseling routines do you use?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/29/counseling-routines/ "What counseling routines do you use?") Ever feel like your group and individual sessions can feel a little too loose? A little unplanned? Using routines during [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/29/counseling-routines/#more-7024) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/29/counseling-routines/) ## [Responding to Escalating Behavior with a Coordinated Team Response](https://confidentcounselors.com/2022/04/11/de-escalation-strategies/ "Responding to Escalating Behavior with a Coordinated Team Response") Every year there are students with challenging behaviors that disrupt, well, everything. Daily crises take over your schedule and they [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2022/04/11/de-escalation-strategies/#more-2987) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2022/04/11/de-escalation-strategies/) ## [Keeping Individual School Counseling Short-Term](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/04/29/individual-school-counseling-short-term/ "Keeping Individual School Counseling Short-Term") As a school counselor or other mental health provider in a school, you rarely have the resources to see students [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/04/29/individual-school-counseling-short-term/#more-5220) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/04/29/individual-school-counseling-short-term/) ## [Creating a Calm Corner In Your Counseling Office](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/04/creating-a-calm-corner/ "Creating a Calm Corner In Your Counseling Office") If you have space, a calm corner is a great addition to your counseling office. It provides a safe place [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/04/creating-a-calm-corner/#more-4890) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/04/creating-a-calm-corner/) ## [How to Start Group Counseling Sessions](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/04/start-group-counseling-sessions/ "How to Start Group Counseling Sessions") How you start group counseling sessions sets the tone for the next 20 to 40 minutes. You can spend that [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/04/start-group-counseling-sessions/#more-3653) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/04/start-group-counseling-sessions/) ## [10 Minute Kindness Activities for the Classroom and Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/08/kindness_activities/ "10 Minute Kindness Activities for the Classroom and Counseling") Creating a positive school culture is such an important step in engaging students in learning. Consistent and frequent kindness activities [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/08/kindness_activities/#more-2710) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/08/kindness_activities/) ## [Make Your Student Observations Comprehensive](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/02/comprehensive-student-observations/ "Make Your Student Observations Comprehensive") ​Student observations were regularly a part of my day as a school psychologist. For special education evaluations, I observed students [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/02/comprehensive-student-observations/#more-1935) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/02/comprehensive-student-observations/) ## [Why You Should Be Using SMART Goals in Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/21/smart-goals-counseling/ "Why You Should Be Using SMART Goals in Counseling") SMART goals are incredible tools that can help you measure student progress and structure plans for counseling sessions. SMART Goals [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/21/smart-goals-counseling/#more-1923) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/21/smart-goals-counseling/) ## [5 Effective Ways to Support Families of Students with Autism](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/supporting-families-autism/ "5 Effective Ways to Support Families of Students with Autism") Finding ways to more effectively support families of students with autism was one of the biggest sources of growth for me as [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/supporting-families-autism/#more-1187) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/supporting-families-autism/) ### Shop Resources from Social Emotional Workshop Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [Counselor Keri](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-keri/) **Published:** November 2, 2024 **Author:** Counselor Keri **Content:** ### Read ### Shop ## Articles from Keri ## [3 Important Ways to Collaborate with Caregivers to Support Students with Anxiety](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/12/10/parent-support-for-students-with-anxiety/ "3 Important Ways to Collaborate with Caregivers to Support Students with Anxiety") Working with students with anxiety in the school setting really requires a team effort! Caregivers and school personnel need to [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/12/10/parent-support-for-students-with-anxiety/#more-7903) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/12/10/parent-support-for-students-with-anxiety/) ## [7 Tips to Make Distance Learning Easier for Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/04/21/distance-learning-counselors/ "7 Tips to Make Distance Learning Easier for Counselors") We’ve all been thrown into a world of distance learning, and while the tech world can be an overwhelming new [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/04/21/distance-learning-counselors/#more-7513) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/04/21/distance-learning-counselors/) ## [Creating Mindful Practices with Your Whole School](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/08/18/schoolwide-mindfulness-activities/ "Creating Mindful Practices with Your Whole School") We’ve all seen the research and know that mindfulness has a whole host of benefits for health and schools. So [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/08/18/schoolwide-mindfulness-activities/#more-6971) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/08/18/schoolwide-mindfulness-activities/) ## [Mindfulness with Middles: Teaching Teens to Practice Mindfulness](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/04/16/middle-school-mindfulness-activities/ "Mindfulness with Middles: Teaching Teens to Practice Mindfulness") Mindfulness with middle schoolers: a piece of cake or labor of love? I’ve had loads of fun teaching mindfulness to [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/04/16/middle-school-mindfulness-activities/#more-6187) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/04/16/middle-school-mindfulness-activities/) ## [15 Strategies to Help Kids Deal with Stress](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/03/05/helps-kids-deal-with-stress/ "15 Strategies to Help Kids Deal with Stress") During the second quarter of the school year, I started talking to my seventh graders about stress. We did a [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/03/05/helps-kids-deal-with-stress/#more-6172) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/03/05/helps-kids-deal-with-stress/) ## [10 Ways to Help Students Who Worry](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/15/10-ways-to-help-students-who-worry/ "10 Ways to Help Students Who Worry") One box I can always count on being checked on the needs assessment is ☑WORRY. Our students are coming to [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/15/10-ways-to-help-students-who-worry/#more-5180) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/15/10-ways-to-help-students-who-worry/) ## [Ditch the Desks: Get Your Students Up and Moving in Your Counseling Lessons](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/10/students-moving-during-counseling-lessons/ "Ditch the Desks: Get Your Students Up and Moving in Your Counseling Lessons") If you find yourself reaching for worksheets for classroom guidance lessons and you’re noticing that students are lacking interest or [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/10/students-moving-during-counseling-lessons/#more-4042) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/10/students-moving-during-counseling-lessons/) ## [How Centers Can Transform Your Classroom Guidance Lessons](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/05/23/school-counseling-centers/ "How Centers Can Transform Your Classroom Guidance Lessons") I don’t know about you, but my counseling grad program didn’t spend a lot of time focusing on whole classroom [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/05/23/school-counseling-centers/#more-3794) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/05/23/school-counseling-centers/) ## [Pipe Cleaner Crafts for School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/30/pipe-cleaner-crafts/ "Pipe Cleaner Crafts for School Counseling") Pipe cleaners are one of my go-to craft supplies for the counseling office. They’re so versatile, easy to store, and [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/30/pipe-cleaner-crafts/#more-3285) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/30/pipe-cleaner-crafts/) ## [Supporting Military Students During Deployment](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/02/supporting-military-students-during-deployment/ "Supporting Military Students During Deployment") If you’re a counselor in an area with a dense military population, you’re acutely aware of the ongoing military engagements [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/02/supporting-military-students-during-deployment/#more-3538) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/02/supporting-military-students-during-deployment/) ## [5 Ways to Repurpose your Gratitude Tree for School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/17/5-ways-to-repurpose-your-gratitude-tree/ "5 Ways to Repurpose your Gratitude Tree for School Counseling") If you’re like me, you saw the gratitude tree in the Target dollar spot and grabbed it for a fun [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/17/5-ways-to-repurpose-your-gratitude-tree/#more-2991) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/17/5-ways-to-repurpose-your-gratitude-tree/) ## [Listening with my Heart: Book Review and Positive Self Talk Activity](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/12/11/book-review-listening-heart/ "Listening with my Heart: Book Review and Positive Self Talk Activity") Gabi Garcia, author of Listening to My Body, just published another book that is a great addition to any counselor’s [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/12/11/book-review-listening-heart/#more-2849) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/12/11/book-review-listening-heart/) ## [Tales, Fibs, and Lies: Working with Students Who Lie](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/20/students-who-lie/ "Tales, Fibs, and Lies: Working with Students Who Lie") Tall tales, little fibs, or flat out lies: how do you work with students who stretch the truth? While some [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/20/students-who-lie/#more-2600) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/20/students-who-lie/) ## [5 Ways to Use Play Doh in School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/12/5-ways-to-use-play-doh-in-school-counseling/ "5 Ways to Use Play Doh in School Counseling") Students light up the moment Play Doh appears in any school setting, and school counseling is no exception. Play [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/12/5-ways-to-use-play-doh-in-school-counseling/#more-2250) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/12/5-ways-to-use-play-doh-in-school-counseling/) ## [8 Steps to Build Student-Led School-Community Engagement](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/23/student-led-school-community-engagement/ "8 Steps to Build Student-Led School-Community Engagement") Career education is an integral aspect of the school counseling program, but educating students on community helpers and their own [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/23/student-led-school-community-engagement/#more-1911) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/23/student-led-school-community-engagement/) ## [9 Books to Help Military Children](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/9-books-help-military-children/ "9 Books to Help Military Children") Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links April is Month of the Military Child, a time to celebrate and acknowledge the [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/9-books-help-military-children/#more-1163) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/9-books-help-military-children/) ## [5 Ways to Use Coffee Filters in School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/02/05/5-ways-use-coffee-filters-school-counseling/ "5 Ways to Use Coffee Filters in School Counseling") I am constantly on the hunt for affordable craft supplies to use in counseling lessons and small groups. I troll [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/02/05/5-ways-use-coffee-filters-school-counseling/#more-954) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/02/05/5-ways-use-coffee-filters-school-counseling/) ### Shop Resources from Counselor Keri Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [School Counseling Is Magical](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/school-counseling-is-magical/) **Published:** November 16, 2024 **Author:** School Counseling is Magical --- ### [Counselor Corner](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-corner/) **Published:** November 16, 2024 **Author:** Counselor Corner --- ### [The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/the-sunny-sunshine-student-support-store/) **Published:** November 16, 2024 **Author:** The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store **Content:** ## Articles from Lisa ## [Favorite School Counseling Anxiety Resource](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/13/favorite-anxiety-resource/ "Favorite School Counseling Anxiety Resource") What is your favorite school counseling anxiety resource? Testing season aside, students are experiencing record rates of anxiety. School counselors [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/13/favorite-anxiety-resource/#more-3702) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/13/favorite-anxiety-resource/) ## [Considering Taking a School Counseling Intern?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/23/school-counseling-intern/ "Considering Taking a School Counseling Intern?") Have you taken a school counseling intern before? An extra person to take some students for counseling sounds like a [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/23/school-counseling-intern/#more-3373) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/23/school-counseling-intern/) ## [What is Your Go To Self Care Activity?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/12/08/favorite-self-care-activity/ "What is Your Go To Self Care Activity?") You know you should be incorporating self-care. You know you can’t pour from an empty cup. Sometimes it just takes [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/12/08/favorite-self-care-activity/#more-2862) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/12/08/favorite-self-care-activity/) ## [Conversations: How Do You Make Restorative Justice Meaningful and Effective?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/17/restorative-justice-practices/ "Conversations: How Do You Make Restorative Justice Meaningful and Effective?") Restorative justice is the kind of approach that school counselors should be advocating for in their districts. When implemented well, [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/17/restorative-justice-practices/#more-2761) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/17/restorative-justice-practices/) ## [Conversations: Tips and Tricks for Behavior Plans](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/20/behavior-plans-tips/ "Conversations: Tips and Tricks for Behavior Plans") What are your tips and tricks for behavior plans? Data Driven Behavior Plans Behavior plans should be developed with [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/20/behavior-plans-tips/#more-2572) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/20/behavior-plans-tips/) ## [Conversations: Bullying Awareness Month is Next Week](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/27/conversations-bullying-awareness-month/ "Conversations: Bullying Awareness Month is Next Week") Bullying Awareness Month is coming up in October. It is an important month to highlight anti-bullying programs and initiatives in your [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/27/conversations-bullying-awareness-month/#more-2358) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/27/conversations-bullying-awareness-month/) ## [School Counselor Schedules and Disruptions](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/20/school-counselor-schedules/ "School Counselor Schedules and Disruptions") How is your schedule setup? School counselor schedules can vary from building to building, district to district, and state to [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/20/school-counselor-schedules/#more-2349) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/20/school-counselor-schedules/) ## [Conversations: How Do You Plan and Stay Organized?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/08/conversations-plan-stay-organized/ "Conversations: How Do You Plan and Stay Organized?") Counselors who plan and stay organized found the key to being a counselor who looks and feels confident. I always [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/08/conversations-plan-stay-organized/#more-2177) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/08/conversations-plan-stay-organized/) ## [What Kindness Activities Are You Incorporating This Month?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/02/09/kindness-activities-february/ "What Kindness Activities Are You Incorporating This Month?") February is a great time to incorporate kindness activities with Valentine’s Day and Random Acts of Kindness Week. Do [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/02/09/kindness-activities-february/#more-3008) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/02/09/kindness-activities-february/) ### Shop Resources from The Sunny Sunshine Student Support Store Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [The School Counselor Is In](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/jodi-the-school-counselor-is-in/) **Published:** November 13, 2024 **Author:** The School Counselor Is In **Content:** ## Articles from Jodi ## [Using Props in School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/16/props-school-counseling/ "Using Props in School Counseling") At the end of every school year, I ask my sixth grade students to reflect back on all the classroom [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/16/props-school-counseling/#more-3710) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/16/props-school-counseling/) ### Shop Resources from The School Counselor Is In Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [The Responsive Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/the-responsive-counselor/) **Published:** November 12, 2024 **Author:** The Responsive Counselor **Content:** ### Read ### Shop ## Articles from Sara ## [What counseling routines do you use?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/29/counseling-routines/ "What counseling routines do you use?") Ever feel like your group and individual sessions can feel a little too loose? A little unplanned? Using routines during [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/29/counseling-routines/#more-7024) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/29/counseling-routines/) ## [Teaching Elementary Students About Identity, Diversity, and Social Justice](https://confidentcounselors.com/2021/01/17/teaching-elementary-students-about-identity-diversity-and-social-justice/ "Teaching Elementary Students About Identity, Diversity, and Social Justice") A couple of years ago, during a lesson, one of my students said, “not to be racist, but she was [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2021/01/17/teaching-elementary-students-about-identity-diversity-and-social-justice/#more-7997) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2021/01/17/teaching-elementary-students-about-identity-diversity-and-social-justice/) ## [The School Counselor’s Role in Restorative Practices](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/03/the-school-counselors-role-in-restorative-practices/ "The School Counselor’s Role in Restorative Practices") Restorative practices are sweeping the education world and for very good reason. This approach to discipline focuses on repairing/restoring the [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/03/the-school-counselors-role-in-restorative-practices/#more-6975) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/03/the-school-counselors-role-in-restorative-practices/) ## [What are your go to children’s books for counseling or lessons?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/08/29/chats-childrens-books-counseling/ "What are your go to children’s books for counseling or lessons?") Do you have a shelf full of books in your school counseling office? Children’s books with social and emotional themes [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/08/29/chats-childrens-books-counseling/#more-6996) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/08/29/chats-childrens-books-counseling/) ## [Teaching Conflict Resolution: Strategies for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/04/04/teaching-conflict-resolution/ "Teaching Conflict Resolution: Strategies for School Counselors") No matter what your school looks like, chances are you’re helping students to effectively and peacefully manage conflict. We are [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/04/04/teaching-conflict-resolution/#more-6170) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/04/04/teaching-conflict-resolution/) ## [7 Tips For School Counseling With ELL Students](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/01/28/7-tips-for-school-counseling-with-ell-students/ "7 Tips For School Counseling With ELL Students") While the ELL population is growing by leaps and bounds within US public schools, most school counselors don’t receive any [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/01/28/7-tips-for-school-counseling-with-ell-students/#more-5401) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/01/28/7-tips-for-school-counseling-with-ell-students/) ## [Cooperative Learning Activities in School Counseling Lessons](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/22/cooperative-learning-activities-in-school-counseling/ "Cooperative Learning Activities in School Counseling Lessons") I’m always excited about new fun school counseling activities that don’t involve worksheets and this post is all about my [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/22/cooperative-learning-activities-in-school-counseling/#more-4248) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/22/cooperative-learning-activities-in-school-counseling/) ## [Pillboxes: Creative Ideas for School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/21/pillboxes-school-counseling-ideas/ "Pillboxes: Creative Ideas for School Counseling") Target’s Bullseye’s Playground (did you know that’s the real name for what we all call the “dollar spot”??) is great, [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/21/pillboxes-school-counseling-ideas/#more-3577) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/21/pillboxes-school-counseling-ideas/) ### Shop Resources from The Responsive Counselor Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [The Helpful Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/the-helpful-counselor/) **Published:** November 16, 2024 **Author:** The Helpful Counselor **Content:** ### Read ### Shop ## Articles from Heather ## [Conversations: Favorite Book to Use in Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/06/favorite-books-school-counseling/ "Conversations: Favorite Book to Use in Counseling") We all have a favorite book to use in counseling with students. Children’s literature can be a great, engaging way [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/06/favorite-books-school-counseling/#more-2333) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/06/favorite-books-school-counseling/) ## [School Counselor Schedules and Disruptions](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/20/school-counselor-schedules/ "School Counselor Schedules and Disruptions") How is your schedule setup? School counselor schedules can vary from building to building, district to district, and state to [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/20/school-counselor-schedules/#more-2349) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/20/school-counselor-schedules/) ### Shop Resources from The Helpful Counselor Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [The DIY Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/the-diy-counselor/) **Published:** November 13, 2024 **Author:** The DIY Counselor **Content:** ## Articles from Carla ## [College and Career Readiness in a Pandemic](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/11/08/college-and-career-readiness-in-a-pandemic/ "College and Career Readiness in a Pandemic") How do you address College and Career Readiness in a pandemic? It is definitely a challenge. November is National Career [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/11/08/college-and-career-readiness-in-a-pandemic/#more-7839) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/11/08/college-and-career-readiness-in-a-pandemic/) ## [Easy Ways to Make Individual Student Connections](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/19/student-connections/ "Easy Ways to Make Individual Student Connections") Getting to know students can be overwhelming at the start of a new school year. You may have a large [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/19/student-connections/#more-7016) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/19/student-connections/) ## [College and Career Activities for Middle School](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/17/college-career-activities/ "College and Career Activities for Middle School") Middle school students are my favorite! All that energy and enthusiasm. They are like sponges, just soaking up new ideas [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/17/college-career-activities/#more-5218) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/17/college-career-activities/) ## [Books and Resources for Bullying Prevention Lessons](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/05/bullying-prevention-resources/ "Books and Resources for Bullying Prevention Lessons") Bullying is something school counselors address in whole class lessons, small groups, individual counseling, and in quick emergency sessions. It [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/05/bullying-prevention-resources/#more-5208) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/05/bullying-prevention-resources/) ## [How to Set School Counseling Program Goals](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/16/school-counseling-program-goals/ "How to Set School Counseling Program Goals") I’m always excited, yet nervous, for a new school year to begin. Setting goals for your school counseling program demonstrates [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/16/school-counseling-program-goals/#more-4244) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/16/school-counseling-program-goals/) ## [How to Help New Students Make a Smooth Transition](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/07/11/help-new-students/ "How to Help New Students Make a Smooth Transition") Have you ever been the new kid? I had to change schools in fifth grade due to school zoning changes, [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/07/11/help-new-students/#more-4224) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/07/11/help-new-students/) ## [Successful Transition from Elementary to Middle School](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/06/01/middle-school-transition/ "Successful Transition from Elementary to Middle School") Moving from elementary school to middle school has its challenges. It can be scary and super exciting at the same [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/06/01/middle-school-transition/#more-3859) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/06/01/middle-school-transition/) ## [How to Use Peer Mentoring in School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/24/peer-mentoring/ "How to Use Peer Mentoring in School Counseling") School counselors use peer mentoring in a variety of ways. It is a little scary to think about students mentoring [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/24/peer-mentoring/#more-2997) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/24/peer-mentoring/) ## [School Counselors and Career Development](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/29/school-counselors-career-development/ "School Counselors and Career Development") Kids get excited about discussing future plans. Talking about what they want to be is very motivating and helps students [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/29/school-counselors-career-development/#more-2842) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/29/school-counselors-career-development/) ## [How to Plan a Successful Mix it Up at Lunch Day](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/19/mix-it-up-at-lunch/ "How to Plan a Successful Mix it Up at Lunch Day") Mix it Up at Lunch Day challenges students to get out of their comfort zone and engage with others, helping [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/19/mix-it-up-at-lunch/#more-2021) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/19/mix-it-up-at-lunch/) ### Shop Resources from The DIY Counselor Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [Speckled Moose Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/speckled-moose-counseling/) **Published:** November 12, 2024 **Author:** Speckled Moose Counseling **Content:** ### Read ### Shop ## Articles from Gretchen ## [What counseling routines do you use?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/29/counseling-routines/ "What counseling routines do you use?") Ever feel like your group and individual sessions can feel a little too loose? A little unplanned? Using routines during [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/29/counseling-routines/#more-7024) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/29/counseling-routines/) ## [Favorite Grief Counseling Resources for Children](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/10/favoritegriefcounselingresourcesforchildren/ "Favorite Grief Counseling Resources for Children") We all strive to do the best we can by “our” kids, and I’ve noticed many requests for grief counseling [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/10/favoritegriefcounselingresourcesforchildren/#more-7008) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/10/favoritegriefcounselingresourcesforchildren/) ## [10 Quick and Easy Group Counseling Activities](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/01/30/10-quick-and-easy-group-counseling-activities/ "10 Quick and Easy Group Counseling Activities") Do you ever find yourself in need of quick and easy group counseling activities? Of course, you do. It’s easy [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/01/30/10-quick-and-easy-group-counseling-activities/#more-4270) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/01/30/10-quick-and-easy-group-counseling-activities/) ## [Keeping Kids Safe: Child Sexual Abuse Prevention in Schools](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/23/child-sexual-abuse-prevention-in-schools/ "Keeping Kids Safe: Child Sexual Abuse Prevention in Schools") National Child Abuse Prevention Month is upon us and there are many things that you can do as a confident [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/23/child-sexual-abuse-prevention-in-schools/#more-3661) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/23/child-sexual-abuse-prevention-in-schools/) ## [75 Free School Counseling Resources](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/04/freeschoolcounselingresources/ "75 Free School Counseling Resources") A day in the life of a school counselor is never easy. We never know what’s going to come our [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/04/freeschoolcounselingresources/#more-3319) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/04/freeschoolcounselingresources/) ### Shop Resources from Speckled Moose Counseling Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [Simply Imperfect Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/simply-imperfect-counselor/) **Published:** November 13, 2024 **Author:** Simply Imperfect Counselor --- ### [School Counselor Stephanie](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/school-counselor-stephanie/) **Published:** November 12, 2024 **Author:** School Counselor Stephanie **Content:** ### Read ### Shop ## Articles from Stephanie ## [Student Trauma and School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/06/student-trauma-and-school-counselors/ "Student Trauma and School Counselors") Working with students who have experienced trauma can be very challenging, but it is such important work. Oftentimes, these are [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/06/student-trauma-and-school-counselors/#more-4590) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/06/student-trauma-and-school-counselors/) ## [Facilitating Psychoeducational Groups in Schools](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/02/05/facilitate-psychoeducational-group/ "Facilitating Psychoeducational Groups in Schools") One of my professional goals for this year is to keep refining my school counseling support groups. To do this, [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/02/05/facilitate-psychoeducational-group/#more-3198) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/02/05/facilitate-psychoeducational-group/) ## [6 Surefire Ways to Say No to Non-Counseling Duties](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/25/non-counseling-duties/ "6 Surefire Ways to Say No to Non-Counseling Duties") As counselors, we are driven by nature to help, nurture, and solve problems. Therefore, most of us don’t like [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/25/non-counseling-duties/#more-1752) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/25/non-counseling-duties/) ## [5 Steps to Handle a Student Crisis](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/14/5-steps-handling-student-crisis-plus-suicide-prevention-resources/ "5 Steps to Handle a Student Crisis") There are so many wonderful aspects of being a school counselor; however, handling student crises can be a large and [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/14/5-steps-handling-student-crisis-plus-suicide-prevention-resources/#more-1733) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/14/5-steps-handling-student-crisis-plus-suicide-prevention-resources/) ## [How to Present Your Counseling Program and Role to Staff](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/30/present-counseling-program-role/ "How to Present Your Counseling Program and Role to Staff") During back to school season, my co-counselors and I put together a presentation for staff about our counseling program. It is [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/30/present-counseling-program-role/#more-1724) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/30/present-counseling-program-role/) ## [How to Have an Organized First Week as a School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/09/organized-first-week/ "How to Have an Organized First Week as a School Counselor") Happy Hot Summer, Everyone! I hope you are managing to stay cooler than I am here in Texas. I can’t [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/09/organized-first-week/#more-1546) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/09/organized-first-week/) ## [An Ounce of Prevention](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/11/27/an-ounce-of-prevention/ "An Ounce of Prevention") School Counselors and Classroom Management Classroom management is a major aspect of effective teaching and learning. The type of classroom management [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/11/27/an-ounce-of-prevention/#more-804) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/11/27/an-ounce-of-prevention/) ### Shop Resources from School Counselor Stephanie Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [School Counseling Files](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/school-counseling-files/) **Published:** November 12, 2024 **Author:** Laurie P Mendoza **Content:** AB ## Articles from Laurie ## [5 Ways to Use Index Cards in School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/30/5-ways-index-cards-school-counseling/ "5 Ways to Use Index Cards in School Counseling") We at Confident Counselors are a thrifty bunch and love nothing better than to find new counseling activities that [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/30/5-ways-index-cards-school-counseling/#more-2653) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/30/5-ways-index-cards-school-counseling/) ## [Conversations: Phone Calls from an Angry Parent](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/27/phone-calls-angry-parent/ "Conversations: Phone Calls from an Angry Parent") How Do You Handle a Phone Call from an Angry Parent? It may be one of the worst parts of [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/27/phone-calls-angry-parent/#more-2591) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/27/phone-calls-angry-parent/) ## [What Can’t You Live Without in Your School Counseling Office?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/15/school-counselor-office-must-haves/ "What Can’t You Live Without in Your School Counseling Office?") Do you have something in your office you can’t live without? I don’t mean the drawer of candy. I mean [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/15/school-counselor-office-must-haves/#more-2192) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/15/school-counselor-office-must-haves/) ## [5 Ways to Use Toilet Paper Tubes in School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/5-ways-tp-crafts-school-counseling/ "5 Ways to Use Toilet Paper Tubes in School Counseling") At Confident Counselors, we love using materials we have at school or home for school counseling crafts. We’ve used coffee filters and [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/5-ways-tp-crafts-school-counseling/#more-1263) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/5-ways-tp-crafts-school-counseling/) ## [Bully Nation](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/10/17/bully-nation/ "Bully Nation") The B-Word by Laurie P. Mendoza, MA, CAGS I’d like to recommend a book that has changed the way I [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/10/17/bully-nation/#more-705) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/10/17/bully-nation/) ### Shop Resources from School Counseling Files Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [School Counseling Confessions](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/school-counseling-confessions/) **Published:** November 13, 2024 **Author:** School Counseling Confessions **Content:** ## Articles from Vanessa ## [Preparing to Work with Military Families](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/26/prepare-military-families/ "Preparing to Work with Military Families") When I first heard that my husband’s job transfer would move me from my little town in Massachusetts to living [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/26/prepare-military-families/#more-3607) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/26/prepare-military-families/) ## [School Counseling Professional Goals for 2018](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/12/07/school-counseling-professional-goals/ "School Counseling Professional Goals for 2018") Get Ready for 2018! Maybe some of you wish 2017 could last a little bit longer and others are thankful [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/12/07/school-counseling-professional-goals/#more-2858) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/12/07/school-counseling-professional-goals/) ### Shop Resources from School Counseling Confessions Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [Savvy School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/savvy-school-counselor/) **Published:** November 16, 2024 **Author:** Savvy School Counselor **Content:** ### Read ### Shop ## Articles from Vanessa ## [Savvy School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/savvy-school-counselor/ "Savvy School Counselor") ReadShopArticles from VanessaSavvy School CounselorRead Shop Articles from Vanessa Vanessa – Savvy School Counselor ReadShopArticles from VanessaVanessa – Savvy School CounselorReadShopArticles from VanessaVanessa – [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/savvy-school-counselor/#more-11210) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/savvy-school-counselor/) ### Shop Resources from Savvy School Counselor Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [Pawsitive School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/pawsitive-school-counselor/) **Published:** November 12, 2024 **Author:** Pawsitive School Counselor --- ### [Music City Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/music-city-counselor/) **Published:** November 12, 2024 **Author:** Music City Counselor **Content:** ### Read ### Shop ## Articles from Laura ## [School Counseling Internship: 8 Tips for Interns and Supervisors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2021/02/06/school-counseling-internship-success/ "School Counseling Internship: 8 Tips for Interns and Supervisors") Internships are where it all begins in our journey as school counselors. Along with the start of a new internship [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2021/02/06/school-counseling-internship-success/#more-8086) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2021/02/06/school-counseling-internship-success/) ## [How has COVID-19 Changed School Counseling Internships?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2021/02/06/school-counseling-internship-covid19-interviews/ "How has COVID-19 Changed School Counseling Internships?") COVID-19 has turned the world of education upside down. School counseling internships have looked very different in 2020 and 2021. [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2021/02/06/school-counseling-internship-covid19-interviews/#more-8181) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2021/02/06/school-counseling-internship-covid19-interviews/) ### Shop Resources from Music City Counselor Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/mrs-bell-the-crafty-counselor/) **Published:** November 12, 2024 **Author:** Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor **Content:** ### Read ### Shop ## Articles from Ashley ## [Return From Winter Break With Success](https://confidentcounselors.com/2021/01/11/return-from-winter-break-with-success/ "Return From Winter Break With Success") Coming back to school after winter break can be difficult. The 2020 school year will be no different with its [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2021/01/11/return-from-winter-break-with-success/#more-8046) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2021/01/11/return-from-winter-break-with-success/) ## [Suicide Prevention Apps](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/25/suicide-prevention-apps-2/ "Suicide Prevention Apps") (Disclaimer: Apps cannot replace professional help and support for those struggling with thoughts of suicide. If you are concerned someone [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/25/suicide-prevention-apps-2/#more-7020) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/25/suicide-prevention-apps-2/) ## [5 Strategies for Testing Taking Success](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/03/17/5-strategies-for-testing-taking-success/ "5 Strategies for Testing Taking Success") Testing season can be the cause of anxiety and frustration for students and teachers alike. As school counselors, we have [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/03/17/5-strategies-for-testing-taking-success/#more-6175) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/03/17/5-strategies-for-testing-taking-success/) ## [Creating a Calm School Culture with Peace Week](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/11/12/creating-a-calm-school-culture-with-peace-week/ "Creating a Calm School Culture with Peace Week") After reading Peace Week in Mrs. Fox’s Class to a group of second graders, it got me thinking and what [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/11/12/creating-a-calm-school-culture-with-peace-week/#more-5228) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/11/12/creating-a-calm-school-culture-with-peace-week/) ## [10 Ways to Make Small Groups Terrific](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/24/10-ways-to-make-small-groups-terrific/ "10 Ways to Make Small Groups Terrific") Facilitating fantastic small groups is one of my favorite parts of being a school counselor. Small groups offer opportunities for [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/24/10-ways-to-make-small-groups-terrific/#more-4268) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/24/10-ways-to-make-small-groups-terrific/) ## [Create a Culture of Kindness at School](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/27/create-culture-of-kindness-at-school/ "Create a Culture of Kindness at School") Create a culture of kindness at school to help support student’s social, emotional and academic growth. When students are in [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/27/create-culture-of-kindness-at-school/#more-4250) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/27/create-culture-of-kindness-at-school/) ## [Create a Strong Counselor Parent Relationship This Year](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/07/25/counselor-parent-relationship/ "Create a Strong Counselor Parent Relationship This Year") Creating a counselor parent relationship at the beginning of the year is super important. Parents are experts on their children. They [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/07/25/counselor-parent-relationship/#more-4236) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/07/25/counselor-parent-relationship/) ## [6 Tips for Making Recess Inclusive](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/17/making-recess-inclusive/ "6 Tips for Making Recess Inclusive") Recess can be the best part of a kid’s day or it can be a major source of stress [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/17/making-recess-inclusive/#more-2473) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/17/making-recess-inclusive/) ## [Suicide Prevention Apps](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/suicide-prevention-apps/ "Suicide Prevention Apps") (Disclaimer: Apps cannot replace professional help and support. If you are concerned someone is in danger, reach out for professional [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/suicide-prevention-apps/#more-1148) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/04/03/suicide-prevention-apps/) ### Shop Resources from Mrs. Bell The Crafty Counselor Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [Mental Fills](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/mental-fills/) **Published:** November 12, 2024 **Author:** Mental Fills **Content:** ## Articles from Robyn ## [Strategies for Managing Negative Attention Seeking](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/01/managing-negative-attention-seeking/ "Strategies for Managing Negative Attention Seeking") STOP, DROP, ROLL and CONNECT I want to share a few helpful strategies I have found useful in managing negative [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/01/managing-negative-attention-seeking/#more-2377) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/01/managing-negative-attention-seeking/) ## [5 Ways to Use Lunch Bags in Counseling and Therapy](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/16/school-counseling-crafts-lunch-bags/ "5 Ways to Use Lunch Bags in Counseling and Therapy") Following the positive response of “Five Ways To Use Tissue Boxes in Counseling,” I wanted to share additional ways I [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/16/school-counseling-crafts-lunch-bags/#more-1913) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/16/school-counseling-crafts-lunch-bags/) ## [5 Ways to Use Tissue Boxes in School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/03/06/tissue-boxes-in-counseling/ "5 Ways to Use Tissue Boxes in School Counseling") Inspired by reading Counselor Keri’s “Five Ways To Use Coffee Filters In School Counseling,” I excitedly went through my resources [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/03/06/tissue-boxes-in-counseling/#more-991) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/03/06/tissue-boxes-in-counseling/) ### Shop Resources from Mental Fills Counseling Tools Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [Little Miss Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/erika-little-miss-counselor/) **Published:** November 12, 2024 **Author:** Little Miss Counselor **Content:** ## Articles from Erika ## [How do you introduce the school counselor role?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/29/introduce-school-counselor-role/ "How do you introduce the school counselor role?") When school counselors start the year, a lot of misconceptions can exist about their role. Teachers and parents come with [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/29/introduce-school-counselor-role/#more-4214) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/29/introduce-school-counselor-role/) ## [New School Counselor – Tips For Your First Month](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/12/new-school-counselor-first-month/ "New School Counselor – Tips For Your First Month") As a new school counselor you are likely feeling excited and overwhelmed. We’ve all been there. A few Confident Counselors [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/12/new-school-counselor-first-month/#more-4208) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/12/new-school-counselor-first-month/) ## [Helping Parents with Separation Anxiety](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/06/parents-separation-anxiety/ "Helping Parents with Separation Anxiety") Written By Little Miss Counselorvisit my siteSchool counselor with 12+ years of experience, I’ve worked with elementary and middle school [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/06/parents-separation-anxiety/#more-4657) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/06/parents-separation-anxiety/) ## [Trauma-Sensitive Approach to Mother’s Day Activities](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/05/02/trauma-sensitive-mothers-day-activities/ "Trauma-Sensitive Approach to Mother’s Day Activities") Mother’s Day is a special holiday where many of us show gratitude for the love, support, and care that’s been [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/05/02/trauma-sensitive-mothers-day-activities/#more-3760) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/05/02/trauma-sensitive-mothers-day-activities/) ## [5 Ways to Use Dominoes in School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/12/dominoes-in-school-counseling/ "5 Ways to Use Dominoes in School Counseling") Who loves dominoes? No, I don’t mean the pizza but the traditional game with black dots on white rectangular game [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/12/dominoes-in-school-counseling/#more-3518) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/12/dominoes-in-school-counseling/) ## [Tips for Guidance Lessons for Special Needs Students](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/09/guidance-lessons-special-needs-students/ "Tips for Guidance Lessons for Special Needs Students") Just like classroom teachers, it is important that we are considering and differentiating our teaching and support for students with [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/09/guidance-lessons-special-needs-students/#more-3371) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/09/guidance-lessons-special-needs-students/) ## [Conversation: How do you handle requests for assistance around the holidays?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/12/01/holiday_assistance_requests/ "Conversation: How do you handle requests for assistance around the holidays?") Develop Systems and Work with Others Triaging requests for assistance helps me from feeling overwhelmed by the high number of [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/12/01/holiday_assistance_requests/#more-2773) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/12/01/holiday_assistance_requests/) ### Shop Resources from Little Miss Counselor Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [Kiddie Matters](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/yanique-kiddie-matters/) **Published:** November 12, 2024 **Author:** Kiddie Matters --- ### [Heart and Mind Teaching](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/heart-and-mind-teaching/) **Published:** November 13, 2024 **Author:** Heart and Mind Teaching **Content:** ### Read ### Shop ## more from Ashley ## [What Do You Do When Students Don’t Want To Be In Group?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/28/resistant-small-group-counseling/ "What Do You Do When Students Don’t Want To Be In Group?") Enter your text here… Sometimes group members are resistant to participating in the group sessions. [Read More](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/28/resistant-small-group-counseling/) ### Shop Resources from Heart and Mind Teaching Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [Counselor Katie](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-katie/) **Published:** November 13, 2024 **Author:** Counselor Katie **Content:** ## Articles from Katie ## [What Do You Do When Students Don’t Want To Be In Group?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/28/resistant-small-group-counseling/ "What Do You Do When Students Don’t Want To Be In Group?") Enter your text here… Sometimes group members are resistant to participating in the group sessions. It is important to address [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/28/resistant-small-group-counseling/#more-5137) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/28/resistant-small-group-counseling/) ### Shop Resources from Counselor Katie Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [Counselor Chelsey](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-chelsey/) **Published:** November 12, 2024 **Author:** Counselor Chelsey **Content:** ### Read ### Shop ## Articles from Chelsey ## [Conversations: Tips and Tricks for Behavior Plans](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/20/behavior-plans-tips/ "Conversations: Tips and Tricks for Behavior Plans") What are your tips and tricks for behavior plans? Data Driven Behavior Plans Behavior plans should be developed with [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/20/behavior-plans-tips/#more-2572) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/20/behavior-plans-tips/) ## [Conversations: Favorite Book to Use in Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/06/favorite-books-school-counseling/ "Conversations: Favorite Book to Use in Counseling") We all have a favorite book to use in counseling with students. Children’s literature can be a great, engaging way [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/06/favorite-books-school-counseling/#more-2333) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/06/favorite-books-school-counseling/) ## [Teaching Kids The Definition Of Bullying](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/10/18/definition-of-bullying/ "Teaching Kids The Definition Of Bullying") Are the students at your school confused about what bullying really means? Do they refer to any mean act as [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/10/18/definition-of-bullying/#more-7766) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/10/18/definition-of-bullying/) ## [How do you balance working at multiple schools?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/08/22/how-do-you-balance-working-at-multiple-schools/ "How do you balance working at multiple schools?") Being a school counselor is a difficult job. It takes it up ten notches when you have to cover multiple [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/08/22/how-do-you-balance-working-at-multiple-schools/#more-6994) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/08/22/how-do-you-balance-working-at-multiple-schools/) ## [Hosting A Social Emotional Learning Family Night](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/08/06/hosting-a-social-emotional-learning-family-night/ "Hosting A Social Emotional Learning Family Night") As counselors, we know that parent engagement and involvement is important. We also know that it can be tricky to [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/08/06/hosting-a-social-emotional-learning-family-night/#more-6990) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/08/06/hosting-a-social-emotional-learning-family-night/) ## [Teaching Expected and Unexpected Behaviors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/03/10/expected-unexpected-behaviors/ "Teaching Expected and Unexpected Behaviors") Although our work as school counselors can be very rewarding, it can also be frustrating! One of the things I [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/03/10/expected-unexpected-behaviors/#more-6177) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/03/10/expected-unexpected-behaviors/) ## [What Do You Love About Being a School Counselor?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/02/08/being-a-school-counselor/ "What Do You Love About Being a School Counselor?") Enter your text here… Enter your text here… [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/02/08/being-a-school-counselor/#more-6138) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/02/08/being-a-school-counselor/) ## [How do you build relationships with teachers?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/02/01/building-relationships-with-teachers/ "How do you build relationships with teachers?") Written By Counselor Chelsey visit my site Chelsey is a licensed social worker and curriculum developer passionate about creating no-prep, [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/02/01/building-relationships-with-teachers/#more-6136) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/02/01/building-relationships-with-teachers/) ## [5 Creative School Counseling Activities Using Candy](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/29/counseling-candy/ "5 Creative School Counseling Activities Using Candy") Halloween is coming! Which at my house means there is a lot of excess candy lying around that I can’t [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/29/counseling-candy/#more-5222) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/29/counseling-candy/) ## [Anger Warning Signs – The Key To Teaching Anger Management](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/17/anger-warning-signs-the-key-to-teaching-anger-management/ "Anger Warning Signs – The Key To Teaching Anger Management") Are you frustrated with anger management? Teaching anger management strategies to kids used to leave me frustrated. Ironic, isn’t it? [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/17/anger-warning-signs-the-key-to-teaching-anger-management/#more-4264) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/09/17/anger-warning-signs-the-key-to-teaching-anger-management/) ## [What Counselors Can Do Before Students Walk In The Door](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/07/23/before-school-starts/ "What Counselors Can Do Before Students Walk In The Door") It’s almost back to school season! While I find back to school to be an incredibly exciting time, full of [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/07/23/before-school-starts/#more-4230) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/07/23/before-school-starts/) ## [How Do You Collaborate with Specialists?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/06/04/collaborating-with-specialists/ "How Do You Collaborate with Specialists?") Collaborating with specialists, such as speech and language pathologists, can help maximize student progress. When everyone working with a student [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/06/04/collaborating-with-specialists/#more-3382) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/06/04/collaborating-with-specialists/) ## [How do you use non-counseling games in counseling?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/16/non-counseling-games/ "How do you use non-counseling games in counseling?") How often do you grab the Ungame off the shelf? What about Uno or Jenga? We know who wins that [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/16/non-counseling-games/#more-3012) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/16/non-counseling-games/) ## [Using Mindfulness In School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/22/using-mindfulness-in-school-counseling/ "Using Mindfulness In School Counseling") Mindfulness is popping up everywhere nowadays. As a school based counselor, teaching students to focus on the present moment and [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/22/using-mindfulness-in-school-counseling/#more-3112) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/22/using-mindfulness-in-school-counseling/) ## [Self Control Strategies for the Classroom](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/13/self-control-strategies-classroom/ "Self Control Strategies for the Classroom") As a school counselor, teachers frequently come to me for advice on classroom management. Almost always, they are looking for [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/13/self-control-strategies-classroom/#more-2697) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/13/self-control-strategies-classroom/) ## [Connect with Staff as a School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/04/connect-staff-school-counselors/ "Connect with Staff as a School Counselor") Being a school counselor or school psychologist can feel a little like you’re on your own island. You’re not a [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/04/connect-staff-school-counselors/#more-2392) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/04/connect-staff-school-counselors/) ## [5 Classroom Management Strategies for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/05/5-classroom-management-strategies-school-counselors/ "5 Classroom Management Strategies for School Counselors") Classroom management is challenging. It can be even more difficult to perfect when you only see the students once a [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/05/5-classroom-management-strategies-school-counselors/#more-1821) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/05/5-classroom-management-strategies-school-counselors/) ### Shop Resources from Counselor Chelsey Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [Carol Miller Counseling Essentials](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/carol-miller-counseling-essentials/) **Published:** November 12, 2024 **Author:** Carol Miller Counseling Essentials **Content:** ### Read ### Shop ## Articles from Carol ## [7 Creative Discussion Starters for School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/05/21/creative-school-counseling-discussion-starters/ "7 Creative Discussion Starters for School Counseling") Struggling with ways to get students engaged and participating in group counseling? Discussion starters are a great way to hook [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/05/21/creative-school-counseling-discussion-starters/#more-3831) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/05/21/creative-school-counseling-discussion-starters/) ## [5 School Counseling Activities with a Plain Sheet of Paper](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/15/5-ways-to-use-a-plain-sheet-of-paper/ "5 School Counseling Activities with a Plain Sheet of Paper") Let’s face it, kids are used to having worksheets and templates and preprinted note pages, but sometimes I don’t have [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/15/5-ways-to-use-a-plain-sheet-of-paper/#more-2818) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/15/5-ways-to-use-a-plain-sheet-of-paper/) ## [Teaching Study Skills as Part of Your Counseling Curriculum](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/23/study-skills/ "Teaching Study Skills as Part of Your Counseling Curriculum") As school counselors, it’s easy to talk to students about things that are bugging them, help with problems they are [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/23/study-skills/#more-2532) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/23/study-skills/) ## [School Counseling Craftivities: 5 Ways to Use Rocks](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/05/08/free-counseling-activities-rocks/ "School Counseling Craftivities: 5 Ways to Use Rocks") I admit I have always had a thing for rocks. I have collected my share over the years, and each [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/05/08/free-counseling-activities-rocks/#more-1348) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/05/08/free-counseling-activities-rocks/) ## [College Tours: Helping Students and Parents Get the Most](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/03/06/college-tours/ "College Tours: Helping Students and Parents Get the Most") For many high school sophomores and juniors, March starts the beginning of college tours. Many high schools have spring break [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/03/06/college-tours/#more-1050) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/03/06/college-tours/) ### Shop Resources from Counseling Essentials Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [Counselor Up](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/counselor-up/) **Published:** November 12, 2024 **Author:** Counselor Up **Content:** ### Read ### Shop ## Articles from Rebecca ## [Conversations: Confidentiality in School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/03/confidentiality-school-counseling/ "Conversations: Confidentiality in School Counseling") What do you share with parents, teachers or your administration about a student’s progress or participation in school counseling services? [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/03/confidentiality-school-counseling/#more-2673) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/03/confidentiality-school-counseling/) ## [Conversations: Phone Calls from an Angry Parent](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/27/phone-calls-angry-parent/ "Conversations: Phone Calls from an Angry Parent") How Do You Handle a Phone Call from an Angry Parent? It may be one of the worst parts of [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/27/phone-calls-angry-parent/#more-2591) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/27/phone-calls-angry-parent/) ## [Tips for Working with a Co-Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/12/working-with-a-co-counselor/ "Tips for Working with a Co-Counselor") Working with a co-counselor can be such a wonderful part of our jobs. We have someone who understands our job’s [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/12/working-with-a-co-counselor/#more-7010) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/12/working-with-a-co-counselor/) ## [Social Emotional Learning in Academic Instruction](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/08/sel-academic-instruction/ "Social Emotional Learning in Academic Instruction") Social emotional learning in academic instruction is having its moment. While counselors have been supporting the whole child and taking [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/08/sel-academic-instruction/#more-6998) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/08/sel-academic-instruction/) ## [Creating Buy-In for Social Emotional Learning](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/02/18/creating-buy-in-for-social-emotional-learning/ "Creating Buy-In for Social Emotional Learning") Are you working on creating buy-in for social-emotional learning at your school? This post is for you to share with [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/02/18/creating-buy-in-for-social-emotional-learning/#more-6168) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/02/18/creating-buy-in-for-social-emotional-learning/) ## [Supporting Staff as a School Counselor](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/11/26/supporting-staff-as-a-school-counselor/ "Supporting Staff as a School Counselor") Has your school experienced loss, been effected by natural disasters, or had a particularly stressful year? If so, you know [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/11/26/supporting-staff-as-a-school-counselor/#more-5234) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/11/26/supporting-staff-as-a-school-counselor/) ## [3 Tier Comprehensive School Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/03/three-tier-school-counseling/ "3 Tier Comprehensive School Counseling") You have a lot on your plate as a school counselor and more on your to-do list than time. Even [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/03/three-tier-school-counseling/#more-4266) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/03/three-tier-school-counseling/) ## [Ways to Welcome New Students](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/17/ways-to-welcome-new-students/ "Ways to Welcome New Students") Written By Counselor Up visit my site I work in central office supporting 140+ elementary school counselors in a large [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/17/ways-to-welcome-new-students/#more-4210) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/08/17/ways-to-welcome-new-students/) ## [13 Reasons Why: Update for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/05/16/13-reasons-why-season-2/ "13 Reasons Why: Update for School Counselors") 13 Reasons Why is a book, and more popularly, a Netflix show about the suicide of a high school student, [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/05/16/13-reasons-why-season-2/#more-3814) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/05/16/13-reasons-why-season-2/) ## [Planning a Successful End of the Year](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/20/successful-end-of-the-year/ "Planning a Successful End of the Year") The end of the school year is approaching. Give your future self a gift by doing some prep work as [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/20/successful-end-of-the-year/#more-3380) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/04/20/successful-end-of-the-year/) ## [Me First! Teach Social Skills Through Games](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/06/teaching-social-skills-games/ "Me First! Teach Social Skills Through Games") What kid doesn’t love a game? What kid loves a lecture? When planning my counseling lessons, I like to think [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/06/teaching-social-skills-games/#more-3020) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/06/teaching-social-skills-games/) ## [Handling Uncomfortable Conversations with Staff and Parents](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/31/handling-uncomfortable-conversations/ "Handling Uncomfortable Conversations with Staff and Parents") I have a saying, “If it’s uncomfortable, give it to the counselor.” Any time that an awkward or uncomfortable [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/31/handling-uncomfortable-conversations/#more-2999) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/31/handling-uncomfortable-conversations/) ## [Ready, Set, Second Semester: Make a Plan](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/12/06/plan-school-counseling-services/ "Ready, Set, Second Semester: Make a Plan") It’s time to get ready for 2nd semester! Wait, you say, the 1st semester isn’t even over yet?! Exactly! In [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/12/06/plan-school-counseling-services/#more-2856) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/12/06/plan-school-counseling-services/) ## [School Counselor’s Gratitude Journal](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/06/school-counselors-gratitude-journal/ "School Counselor’s Gratitude Journal") Dear Diary, In honor of Thanksgiving, I am going to be writing a gratitude journal. I am so thankful for [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/06/school-counselors-gratitude-journal/#more-2571) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/06/school-counselors-gratitude-journal/) ## [Positivity Works: Stepping Out of Negativity](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/11/positivity-works-stepping-negativity/ "Positivity Works: Stepping Out of Negativity") In my third year of my school counseling career, a student asked me “What’s wrong with you Mrs. Atkins? You [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/11/positivity-works-stepping-negativity/#more-2410) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/10/11/positivity-works-stepping-negativity/) ## [Making Group Counseling Work](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/14/making-counseling-groups-work/ "Making Group Counseling Work") Groups. Do you love them or hate them? I remember in grad school learning about group theory, the ideal selection [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/14/making-counseling-groups-work/#more-2042) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/08/14/making-counseling-groups-work/) ## [3 Organization Tips for a Great Year](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/07/26/school-counselor-organization/ "3 Organization Tips for a Great Year") Organization is my jam. I may or may not get ridiculously excited about school supplies and organizing systems. I [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/07/26/school-counselor-organization/#more-1597) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/07/26/school-counselor-organization/) ## [Fill Your Cup: Self Care for Real Life](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/11/27/fill-cup-self-care-real-life/ "Fill Your Cup: Self Care for Real Life") From Rebecca at Counselor Up Here’s what I’ve learned- every body is stressed. No matter what your job, your hours, [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/11/27/fill-cup-self-care-real-life/#more-815) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2016/11/27/fill-cup-self-care-real-life/) ### Shop Resources from Counselor Up Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [The Counseling Teacher Brandy](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/the-counseling-teacher-brandy/) **Published:** November 12, 2024 **Author:** The Counseling Teacher Brandy **Content:** ### Read ### Shop ## Articles from Brandy ## [Life Changing Self Care Tips for School Counselors](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/10/11/school-counselor-self-care-tips/ "Life Changing Self Care Tips for School Counselors") Self-care for school counselors is an important aspect of your routine as a helping professional. Holding yourself accountable is key [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/10/11/school-counselor-self-care-tips/#more-7705) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/10/11/school-counselor-self-care-tips/) ## [5 Seamless Ways to Add Social-Emotional Learning to the Classroom](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/01/23/social-emotional-learning-classroom/ "5 Seamless Ways to Add Social-Emotional Learning to the Classroom") The value of social-emotional learning is undisputed amongst both teachers and counselors. We know that kids need to learn SEL [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/01/23/social-emotional-learning-classroom/#more-7456) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2020/01/23/social-emotional-learning-classroom/) ## [How do you get parent buy-in for counseling services?](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/05/parent-buy-in/ "How do you get parent buy-in for counseling services?") Parent buy-in for counseling services can be challenging in many communities. Some parents comes with preconceived ideas about counseling and [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/05/parent-buy-in/#more-7006) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/09/05/parent-buy-in/) ## [8 Healthy Friendship Qualities to Teach Students](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/07/31/healthy-friendship-qualities/ "8 Healthy Friendship Qualities to Teach Students") Cultivating healthy friendships amongst students is crucial for a positive learning environment. When students know the difference between healthy and [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/07/31/healthy-friendship-qualities/#more-6189) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/07/31/healthy-friendship-qualities/) ## [Fidgets are Tools, Not Toys](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/03/26/fidgets-are-tools-not-toys/ "Fidgets are Tools, Not Toys") After fidget spinners came on the scene, teachers began banning self-regulation tools from the classroom. Students misused them and teachers [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/03/26/fidgets-are-tools-not-toys/#more-6183) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/03/26/fidgets-are-tools-not-toys/) ## [3 Powerful Reasons for Teaching Mindfulness](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/02/20/5-amazing-reasons-you-should-be-teaching-mindfulness/ "3 Powerful Reasons for Teaching Mindfulness") What is mindfulness? Simply put, it’s the ability to pay attention to the present moment, without any judgment. Although it may seem [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/02/20/5-amazing-reasons-you-should-be-teaching-mindfulness/#more-6174) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2019/02/20/5-amazing-reasons-you-should-be-teaching-mindfulness/) ## [7 Video Clips to Hook Students into a Teasing Lesson](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/11/28/video-clips-teasing/ "7 Video Clips to Hook Students into a Teasing Lesson") Teasing between peers can be an ongoing battle causing chaos in the classroom. It’s important to educate students on the [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/11/28/video-clips-teasing/#more-5236) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/11/28/video-clips-teasing/) ## [Empower Students to Report Bullying](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/01/empower-students-to-report-bullying/ "Empower Students to Report Bullying") Bullying happens everywhere. Bullies can be big or small, young or old. Recognizing a bully and taking away their power [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/01/empower-students-to-report-bullying/#more-4262) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/10/01/empower-students-to-report-bullying/) ## [5 Ways to Reframe Negative Thoughts](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/19/reframe-negative-thoughts/ "5 Ways to Reframe Negative Thoughts") Empower students to escape negative thinking traps by guiding them to reframe negative thoughts. Once students identify these cognitive distortions, [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/19/reframe-negative-thoughts/#more-3477) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/03/19/reframe-negative-thoughts/) ## [4 Easy Ways to Promote National School Counseling Week](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/29/promote-national-school-counseling-week/ "4 Easy Ways to Promote National School Counseling Week") One week per year, school counselors from around the nation, find ways to spread the word about how school counselors [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/29/promote-national-school-counseling-week/#more-3238) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2018/01/29/promote-national-school-counseling-week/) ## [7 Simple Ways to Calm an Angry Parent and Improve Parent Communication](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/27/calm-angry-parent/ "7 Simple Ways to Calm an Angry Parent and Improve Parent Communication") From time to time, you are going to have a conversation with an angry parent. No matter how hard you [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/27/calm-angry-parent/#more-2556) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/11/27/calm-angry-parent/) ## [5 School Counseling Office Must Haves](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/07/school-counseling-office-must-haves/ "5 School Counseling Office Must Haves") Environment matters. From the office walls to your desktop, what you put in your school counseling office sets the tone [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/07/school-counseling-office-must-haves/#more-1929) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/09/07/school-counseling-office-must-haves/) ## [An Honest Review of SCUTA Pro for Tracking School Counseling Time](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/07/18/an-honest-review-of-scuta-pro-for-tracking-school-counseling-time/ "An Honest Review of SCUTA Pro for Tracking School Counseling Time") “Tracking school counseling time is my favorite task,” said no counselor ever. (especially not The Counseling Teacher!) I have to [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/07/18/an-honest-review-of-scuta-pro-for-tracking-school-counseling-time/#more-1578) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/07/18/an-honest-review-of-scuta-pro-for-tracking-school-counseling-time/) ## [Bibliotherapy and Diversity](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/01/03/bibliotherapy-and-diversity/ "Bibliotherapy and Diversity") Finding the Words: Bibliotherapy & Diversity How does one “teach” others to be respectable citizens who appreciate and even celebrate [ …](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/01/03/bibliotherapy-and-diversity/#more-857) [Read Article](https://confidentcounselors.com/2017/01/03/bibliotherapy-and-diversity/) ### Shop Resources from The Counseling Teacher Brandy Ready to print counseling and social emotional learning resources for K-8. --- ### [EduKate & Inspire](https://confidentcounselors.com/author-bio/edukate-inspire/) **Published:** November 12, 2024 **Author:** EduKate & Inspire --- ## Custom Fonts ### [Gelica](https://confidentcounselors.com/?bsf_custom_fonts=gelica) **Published:** October 16, 2024 **Author:** Confident Counselors --- ### [AG The Mothership](https://confidentcounselors.com/?bsf_custom_fonts=ag-the-mothership) **Published:** September 13, 2024 **Author:** Confident Counselors --- ### [APL Papa Troll](https://confidentcounselors.com/?bsf_custom_fonts=apl-papa-troll-2) **Published:** September 13, 2024 **Author:** Confident Counselors --- ## Categories ### [Uncategorized](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/uncategorized/) --- ### [Group Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/counseling/group-counseling/) --- ### [Classroom Management](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/behavior/classroom-management/) --- ### [Teachers](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/collaboration/teachers/) --- ### [Quick Activities](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/counseling/quick-activities/) --- ### [Advocacy](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/counselor-role/advocacy/) --- ### [College](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/academics-career/college/) --- ### [Crisis Response](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/behavior/crisis-response/) --- ### [Parents](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/collaboration/parents/) --- ### [Behavior](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/behavior/) --- ### [Individual Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/counseling/individual-counseling/) --- ### [Career Development](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/academics-career/career-development/) --- ### [Professional Development](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/counselor-role/professional-development/) --- ### [Data](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/counselor-role/data/) --- ### [Class Lessons](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/sel-lessons/class-lessons/) --- ### [Academics & Career](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/academics-career/) --- ### [Collaboration](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/collaboration/) --- ### [Your Program](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/counselor-role/counseling-program/) --- ### [Self Care](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/counselor-role/counselor-care/) --- ### [Counseling](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/counseling/) --- ### [Popular Posts](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/popular-posts/) --- ### [Counselor Role](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/counselor-role/) --- ### [Your Office](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/counselor-role/counselor-office/) --- ### [Organization](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/counselor-role/counselor-organization/) --- ### [SEL & Classroom Lessons](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/sel-lessons/) --- ### [Counselor Chats](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/counselor-chats/) --- ### [Can't Counsel Without](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/cant-counsel-without/) --- ### [Counsel It Yourself (CIY)](https://confidentcounselors.com/category/counseling/counsel-it-yourself/) **Description:** Counsel It Yourself (CIY): Activities Using Everyday Items. 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