Guidance Note 
Hello Vinal School Families! My name is Eliza Hayes and I am the school guidance counselor. I am here to support the academic, social and emotional needs of Vinal students. I teach classroom guidance lessons on friendship skills, bullying, conflict resolution, self-esteem, diversity and other topics that may come up throughout the year. I also have small snack and lunch groups. I work with all the students in the Vinal School. If your child comes home and tells you that they had lunch with the guidance counselor, please don’t be alarmed! I invite students to my room so that I can get to know them and they get to know me in a fun, casual setting. When a pet dies, a relative is ill, a big move happens, a new sister or brother is born, families change, or if there is trouble at recess or in class, I am available for support. I also run a “Changing Families” lunch group that is made up of children whose families have had a divorce or are going through a similar change. Please call or email me anytime if you would like to sign your child up for the “Changing Families” group. Also please call or email me if there is anything I can help you or your child with.
hayes@norwellschools.org or 781-659-8820
TOOLS TO HELP HANDLE: “TEASING”
Sometimes children say things to each other that are hurtful and unkind. Though we try to teach everyone how to be a good friend and a respectful classmate “teasing” still happens. When you feel teased use the tools that we have talked about in class.
Tool #1 Visualize a protective shield around your entire body. When mean words or teases are said to you, let them bounce off your shield and walk away. With this shield you are protected from unkind words.
Tool #2 Ask your self if the tease is true, and who’s opinion matters. Example: If someone teases me about the lunch I bring to school, I can ask myself, “Is it true that my lunch is gross? No!” and then I can ask myself, “Who’s opinion matter’s more mine or theirs? Mine!” After I have made this decision I can walk away or ignore the teases.
Tool #3 Use “I” messages. After someone has said something hurtful, use your “I” messages to tell them how you feel and what you would like them to do. Example:
I feel (mad, angry, hurt, sad, frustrated) when you say (I’m stupid, or my lunch is gross, etc.) I would like you to (stop saying that, say something kind to me, etc.) You can fill in the blanks for whatever situation you are in.
Tool #4 If you cannot work out your situation, no matter what you try, it is important to get help and talk to a teacher or helpful adult.
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