It is that simple... "Choose Kind"

Our school theme this year is “Choose Kind” which reinforces students to be sensitive, empathetic, and accepting of others.  We can “Choose Kind” at Greenbrier by smiling at someone, inviting a peer to play, listening to a peer, compromising during a game, or displaying expected behaviors throughout the school.  At Greenbrier, we strive to maintain a positive, safe, and fun environment for our students and reinforce kindness and conflict-resolution daily.

This year, I created a new “Choose Kind” problem-solving format for all K-5 classrooms.  The steps include:  Keep your eyes on the person talking; “I feel” message; Never stop listening; and Discuss a compromise or solution.”    The "Choose Kind" message provides a common language among staff and students.  It teaches them how to positively use their words, actively listen to one another, and compromise or come up with a variety of solutions. 

It is that simple...

Never Stop WONDERing

As educators, we work with children everyday.  We follow routines.  We follow schedules.  But sometimes we get so stuck in our daily lives that we forget to take a step back and "Wonder."  Think about your students.  Think about what they may be going through with friends or at home.  And think about your own emotional health to better help those around you.  The following article is a great reminder of our ability to "Wonder."

http://www.spedtales.com/a-teachers-perspective-on-wonder/

The Importance of Social/Emotional Learning in the Classrooms

Social/Emotional learning helps "build" life skills for students to thrive in the real world.  The following article explains the importance of social/emotional learning in the classrooms and how it benefits a child's growth overall.

http://www.edweek.org/tm/articles/2013/10/14/cm_socialemotional.html

Building Social/Emotional Learning at Greenbrier

Welcome back Greenbrier Gators for the 2017-2018 school year!  Greenbrier is currently under construction so we are are "building" our student's growth academically, socially, and emotionally this year.  As the K-5 Social Worker I will be continuing the Social Thinking Curriculum, SOLVE IT, Whole Body Listening, and the Peer Mediator Program.  I will also continue working with students both individually and in small groups, as well as facilitating the Circle of Friends program during lunch/recess times.  I look forward to "building" the student's social/emotional skills throughout the school year.

Countdown to Summer

As we approach the end of the school year, children often experience a variety of emotions.  From excitement to some level of anxiety, children anticipate the change in routine, friendships, or worries about the following school year.

Below is an article about helping your child transition from "School to Summer Mode."

http://www.parents.com/kids/development/behavioral/transitioning-from-school-to-summer-vacation/?scrlybrkr

The Power of Positive Thinking

When faced with adversity, some students are more resilient than others.  Why is that?  Visit the following website to see the power of positive thinking and how two students experiencing the same problem can handle it in two very different ways.

http://visual.ly/abcs-resilience-bouncing-back-defeat-gozen?scrlybrkr

IMAGINE a Safe Halloween!

Halloween is a great time of year filled with IMAGINATION and fun.  Creative costumes, spooky stories, fun games, and delicious treats are a huge part of Halloween.  While celebrating, it is also important to keep yourself safe.  Please click the following link for helpful safety tips on Halloween:

https://www.safekids.org/tip/halloween-safety-tips