As students enter their counseling time during block each week, it is my goal as a counselor to make connections and build relationships with each and every student. One way is through our Welcome Work. Every Welcome Work folder has a letter from me which includes a positive quote or statement.
The students then open their folders and begin writing/drawing their "Sunshine and Rain Cloud". A "Sunshine" is something that the student is looking forward to or something that happened to them that made them happy or excited. Their "Rain Cloud" is an event that made them upset, sad or angry. Students are encouraged to share their sunshine and rain cloud as we build our classroom community with a foundation of trust and empathy.
After their students write down their "Sunshine and Rain Cloud", the students complete a "Emotional Check-in". The students learn that all feelings are okay and acceptable. It's our choices and attitude that will guide us through the day. As the counselor, I will find students that might need a little extra TLC for the day and follow-up conversations.
On the back of every folder there is a "Breathing Star". As a group we take five deep breaths using the star. This helps our brain receive the oxygen it needs to learn the lesson we will be learning that day. It's also great practice for anxiety and calming down in stressful situations. As the students practice this technique, they will be able to use this skill on their own and gain control of difficult emotions.
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