From the Principal’s Desk
It’s a funny thing but this year I have not heard TV, radio or the newspaper mention anything about New Year’s resolutions. Usually this time of the year, we are bombarded with the question, “What is your New Year’s resolution?”
Although the new year is a momentous moment (a fresh start), I am not going to write about setting new goals for the year. I do want to write about the Five Keys to Goal Setting that are present in the book The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens. I know many of you are saying my Elmwood student is too young to set goals; however, it is not too young to set family goals that could help your student (for example, having family meals together or keeping a set bedtime). You are also the model for your child to understand throughout life there are also things you need to work on as an adult. Having conversations about achievement and improvement is a great time to teach these keys.
Counting the cost is the first key. This means analyzing what it will take to reach your goal. This is a step that many of us skip because we are eager to start achieving. However, counting the cost is important because it can gauge the level of commitment one needs to achieve their goal.
The second key to goal setting is to put it in pen. Simply stated, we are more likely to accomplish goals we write down. When we write goals, they should be S.M.A.R.T. goals (Specific, Measurable, Action-Oriented, Realistic and Timely).
Once we have decided what it is going to cost to reach our goal and committed to our goal by putting it in pen, the next step is to get out and just do it. To just do it, you need to commit yourself and create a plan of action. This step should describe how you are going to reach your goal.
The fourth step to goal setting is using momentous moments. Moments like a new school year, a new year, or joining a new activity carry momentum. These are excellent times to set a goal.
The final step is roping up. Striving to reach a goal is more fun when you do it with people who are striving to achieve the same things. Plus, whoever you choose will hold you more accountable.
This process is a valuable reflection piece that we need to teach children. Heck, at times I used these ideas to make behavioral contracts with my kids when it came to completing homework, screen or phone time, getting outside more or improving a sports skill. Before they ask you to begin another activity or before they set a goal, ask them if they have used the five steps to goal setting.
Here are some ideas for family goals that can help improve family life as well as help your student. Some of these are tips that I read recently on social media about raising a calm, happy child.
Getting up earlier on school days and creating a “slower” morning routine (not rushing). Giving your student more time to enter their day calmly and peacefully will help their brain switch into “safe mode” which helps them learn and listen better. These don’t have to be major changes but can be things like playing soothing music while getting ready or dimming the lights while eating breakfast.
Giving your child small responsibilities around the house. Tiny tasks can build confidence. Toddlers can help with tasks like carrying their own bag, putting their shoes or clothes away or helping set the table for supper. The site mentioned that a teacher said children who do simple tasks at home feel stronger at school because they know they can handle things. When a child feels capable, behavior improves without special efforts.
Establishing predictable routines for your child (not strict, just clear and they must be taught). Predictability reduces stress because the brain stops guessing what comes next.
Teaching emotions through real examples. As stated above, you are the model for your student. It is good to model labeling your emotions (I am sorry I yelled, I was just frustrated… this is how I should have acted instead) and modeling strategies to use that are better coping strategies. Kids copy emotional language just like they will copy your actions.
Establishing a place in your home for children when they become overwhelmed. At school we call these “ Regulation Stations.” The space has fidgets, legos, books or soft toys to help students regulate their emotions. These spaces can help students begin to learn to self-regulate their emotions. They learn calming down is something they can do on their own. It does not take an adult.
Upcoming Events:
Monday, January 12 - Acadience Testing Grades K - 2
Friday, January 16
Friday, January 16 End of semester and 2nd quarter
Monday, January 19 No School - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Tuesday, January 20 No School for students - Teacher
In-Service
Tuesday, January 27 Report cards emailed home by 5 PM
Reminders:
Pickups need to be called in to the office prior to 2:30 PM the day the student is being picked up.
Grade cards will be held if a student has unpaid school fees. You can pay fees online on payschoolscentral.com or cash/check can be sent into the office.
Tips to Keep Children Healthy During the Winter Months:
Encourage frequent handwashing.
Maintain consistent sleep routines.
Prioritize nutritious meals and
hydration.
Keep kids active with safe playtime