Resources for Children

This is Vail's ACT Statement, developed nearly 20 years ago. It's a nice framework of expectations for how we treat each other.

Check-ins can be completed virtually or in person. Many teachers are familiar with "Roses and Thorns" or even a thumbs up or down. This article discusses how to take these practices a bit further to really help students identify and monitor their own wellbeing.

https://www.edutopia.org/article/going-beyond-how-are-you-feeling

Roses and

This is a comprehensive list of website links adults can use to support our students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Google Link to List

Many students (and adults) do not want to talk about their feeling or things that may be weighing heavy on their minds. Some just know they feel "heavy" and don't know why. Providing physical or virtual journals back and forth allows many students an avenue to

Community meetings are group meetings with established norms and often agreed-upon rules/agreements, many of which mirror the ACT statement. These meetings can be conducted virtually and are a great opportunity for building relationships, a sense of unity/belonging, and serves to remind students that they are not

This link provides free chapters to several books, articles, and webinars about the importance of Social/Emotional learning and the role it plays in student success. ASCD is an organization for educators, but many of these resources apply to families and are free to access without a

It is important in times of heightened stress and unpredictability that adults instill a sense of hope for students. Children observe adults in unfamiliar situations to determine how to respond and react. Adults who are calm and approach situations with optimism and hope assist students in

Mindfulness is a state of being aware of something that can be achieved by focusing your awareness on the present moment, while also acknowledging and accepting your feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations and remaining calm. Mindfulness is known to facilitate emotional regulation and reduce stress, including

This is a great idea for quick communication with members of the household. We never know what children are carrying in their "emotional backpack". A note left for them may make all the difference in the world as to how they start their day.

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/65372632065322201/

Animals are wonderful at reducing stress levels. Arranging for a calm pet to "visit" children virtually could provide a talking point for relationship building and gives children another subject to learn, communicate, and write about that they may not have access to in their own surroundings.