Staying Connected to Student's Social/Emotional Needs

In the article below, a teacher created a classroom system to stay connected to her student's needs.  The system helped her gauge which students may be feeling isolated or disconnected from their peers.  This is something that every classroom could do from elementary to high school.

Check it out :)

http://momastery.com/blog/2014/01/30/share-schools/ 

Be a true friend...

Friendship can be a rollercoaster ride for children. However, teaching and modeling empathy and good character can lead to more successful relationships altogether.

See the link below for a great story that reinforces this important life lesson:

http://m.huffpost.com/us/entry/4661700

Social/Emotional Learning and Academic Success

Social/Emotional learning in schools teaches children about self-awareness, self-regulation, social skills, problem-solving skills, and other life skills that help build success.

Please click the link below for more details:

http://www.casel.org/library/2013/12/5/aligning-preschool-through-high-school-social-and-emoonal-learning-standards

IMAGINE the possibilities...

I found this great article discussing a link between imaginative play and improved social/emotional and self-regulation skills.  See the link below :).

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=19212514

Empathy vs. Sympathy

http://failblog.cheezburger.com/share/56915969

Holiday YO's or Holiday WOE's?

The holidays can be a time of celebration, but it can also be a time of stress.  Children thrive on routine and structure so although the holidays can be fun, the time off of school or changes at home can prove difficult for some.

See the link below for some helpful holiday tips:

http://www.webmd.com/parenting/features/parenting_tips_for_the_holidays

Be a friend with a "Buddy Bench"

I read this heartwarming article about a 2nd grade student who wanted to help his peers at school who seemed lonely at recess time.  The idea was to build friendships and empathy for others by creating a place for students to go to called a "Buddy Bench."

Click the link below for more details :)

http://m.huffpost.com/us/entry/4378248