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Mrs. Wright's Update
 WHAT'S NEW IN GUIDANCE!
BETTER BEHAVIOR - Through loving discipline
As your children grow up, it's natural for them to challenge you. Sometimes, it seems easier to just let them have their way. But all kids need limits, and they need parents to guide them.
Discipline works best with a balance of love, respect, clearly defined rules, and understanding. Here are some secrets of effective discipline.
MAKE THE RULES CLEAR
Children do best when they know what to expect. Talk about family rules, explaining the consequences clearly. EXAMPLE: "Put your bicycle away when you've finished riding it. If you don't, you won't be allowed to ride it the next day." As your child learns to read, write down the rules and put them on the refrigerator as a reminder.
BE CONSISTENT AND FIRM
You can expect your kids to "test" the rules from time. When they do, try to stand your ground and apply the set consequences. Being firm and consistent lets them know that you mean business.
GIVE POSITIVE FEEDBACK
Try to focus more on your child's right actions than on their wrong ones. This will encourage them to try even harder to behave. So, when you see behavior you'd like repeated, let your kids know. EXAMPLE: "Thanks for hanging up your coat and backpack!" :)
The fifth grade Conflict Managers have been out at recess performing their duties as peer mediators. The students at second lunch have taken advantage of the services provided to them during recess and have had many successful mediations. The fifth grade students are respectful of their classmates' feelings during the intervention process. The mediators have helped shape their peers' behavior and attitudes in a positive way. The conflict managers will be identified on the playground by the bright green fluorescent vests.
The fourth grade boys have been meeting with me during their library time. The boys group have been discussing "What makes a good friend?", "Why are friends important?" and the "Do's and Don't's" about their friendships. They seem very excited about our discussions and look forward to the activities that are planned for the group.
One Monday a month, students sign up and perform for their classmates during Monday's Entertainment which is offered to all students . Many students enjoy acting and performing on stage and this gives them an opportunity to perform. It is another recess option that some children choose instead of attending outdoor play. Many students have entertained our seniors during the Senior Lunch on the third Thursday of every month. The seniors have been raving about the very talented students at the Cole School.
There are many children who prefer to stay in during recess to play chess, checkers, card games, basketball or an activity that interests them instead of going outside. Students will have a choice to stay in on Monday's with a friend. If your child is interested in alternative play, they can let me know during their lunch when they see me in the cafeteria.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss your child, please feel free to call or send me an e-mail at the school. You can reach me at the school between 7:45 and 5:00 almost everyday.
Would you like your child to make more friends? Try coaching him/her in how to be the kind of friend that other kids are naturally drawn to. Here are some "friendly" behaviors you can help your child master.
SMILE
Children (and adults) enjoy being around people who are happy. Encourage your child to smile and make eye contact when he/she meets others.
SHARE
Generosity is contagious. Suggest that your child share with friends and classmates. Explain that they will be more likely to share with her/him in return.
LISTEN
Everyone likes it when others listen to what they have to say. Encourage your youngster to ask others about themselves. TIP: If your child is shy, help him practice conversation starters, like " Which class are you in?" or " I like soccer. Do you play?"
BE A GOOD SPORT
Good sportsmanship is an important part of being a good friend. Challenge your child to say "Great game! Thanks for playing with me!" after a game-whether he/she wins or loses.
As a school community we have all pledged to try to practice the five Acts of Courage which include: 1) stand up for someone being teased, 2) include someone new in your group, 3) talk to someone you have never talked to before, 4) give someone a compliment, and 5) tell an adult if someone is bullying you. Please ask your child if they have had the opportunity to practice their acts of courage. Please encourage your child to practice these acts throughout the year.
Ask your child to hug their knees and say " I love myself, " they will explain to you what we mean by that and why it is so important.
Reach out to someone who needs you ! :)
Families who are seeking support outside the school in the areas of social skills groups, parent grps. or individual counseling may call the following recommended therapists or you may call me for other referrals. Many therapists are in the process of developing their groups for the fall.
Val Wooley,LICSW
80 Washington Sq. Ste D28
Norwell, MA #781-871- 2212
Ann McCarthy-Egan,LICSW
62 Derby St. Suite 15
Hingham, MA #781-740-8213
Tammy Graham
210 Whiting Place
Hingham, MA #781-740-9044
Cheryl Larson
33 Union St. Suite #20
Weymouth, MA 02089 #781-956-5901
Student/Counselor Connection:
There are many ways I stay connected to the students here at Cole. I have lunch and recess groups every day, individual talks, peer mediation, group counseling; such as loss, divorce/single parent groups for every grade, social skill groups, and magic circle/class meetings every month.
Topics of discussion during my monthly class meetings include:
* understanding self and others
* teasing and bullying
* stress management
* telling vs. tattling
* making good choices
* making and keeping friends
* solving problems
* how to say NO ! ( politely to peers and adults )
* understanding your feelings & how to manage
them
* empathy vs. sympathy
* differences ( knowing your strengths &
weaknesses )
* knowing your boundaries ( reading
non-verbal cues )
* boy/girl relationships
* adjustment issues such as loss, grief & moving
* changing families
These are some of the subjects we discuss as a class, in small groups, or as individual support. If you have other topics that you feel would be relevent for a particular grade or would like your child included in any of these groups please feel free to call me.
The Guidance Reference Library is located in the waiting room outside the guidance office. There are many subjects and topics available to all Norwell parents. To check out a book is the same process as any library. Fill out the library card inside of the front cover and put it in the box on top of the bookshelf. Please feel free to come and check out my book inventory. I do not need to be there for you to check out a book. The door is always open. Feel free to come and read a book while you are waiting for your son or daughter.
clipart from www.animationfactory.com
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