december
It's hard to believe that it is already December and the holiday season is upon us! During this time often filled with hustle and bustle, we want to encourage you to be intentional to build in time to reflect and connect with your family members about your routines, rituals, and traditions that you experienced as a child and that you are currently practicing within your family. We have included some resources and ideas to help you create some rich family memories, which research has shown helps lead to healthy and connected families.
The holiday season can be a time of great joy; for many, it can also bring sadness and stress. You'll also find some gentle reminders and resources on how to practice self care during this season. We hope that this is helpful and that you and your family are able to connect with each other and our great community!
Supporting & Setting Your Child Up for Success
Get ready for flu season Amp up the reminders about washing hands frequently—particularly when kids get home from school, sports, and other activities. Pay attention to school websites and newsletters for alerts about flu or other illness outbreaks. Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website (cdc.gov) for up-to-date information and the latest prevention advice. And be sure your family gets flu shots.
Help end bullying Take the time to talk with your children about any bullying behavior they may have seen going on at school. Before you begin the conversation, go to pta.org/bullying and stopbullying.gov to learn what you can do as a parent to instill an attitude of acceptance in your children and get help with bullying behavior if your family needs it.
Remember the teacher A simple holiday token is nice if you can swing it. Teachers particularly appreciate cards from their students, and gift cards for their favorite book, crafts, or office-supply stores. Teachers often replenish classroom supplies out of their own pay, so gift cards help cut the cost.
Practice cyber safety If your children will be spending more time online during the winter break, or if they get a new laptop or smartphone as a gift, be sure to review family rules and online behavior.
Creating Family Memories Quick Tips
Holiday fun for the family (click on pictures)
Family-Friendly Holiday Movies
Tarrant County Holiday Events
Dallas County Holiday Events
Fun Holiday Activities
Grieving and the Holidays
While the holidays can bring great joy, if you find yourself experiencing sadness and grief from the loss of a loved one, below are two resources to help you and your family cope:
Community Resources
community volunteer opportunities
GCISD is not responsible for the contents of the flyers or electronic communication, nor does GCISD endorse any products, websites, and/or services referenced in this communication or provided by this provider. Parents sign-up or use advertised programs/resources at their own risk.
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