Virtual Lessons

Dear Families,

The changes that COVID-19 has brought to our world are especially difficult for our children. School - and all that entails (teachers, friends, extra-curriculars, etc.) - have all been taken away from them suddenly and indefinitely. Therefore, It is more important than ever for children to explore and freely express their thoughts, feelings and what they need to help them cope.

I have compiled a series of Virtual Lessons based on the five major components of Social Emotional Learning (SEL): Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Social Awareness, Relationship Skills, and Responsible Decision Making. Engaging in SEL, children learn more about who they are and what is important to them. They also learn skills in identifying and managing their emotions; the importance of empathy, connection and developing healthy relationships; while also learning how to make responsible decisions at home, school and within the community.

Each virtual lesson topic has components for the entire family, for example, there are tips and strategies for parents/guardians in how to develop SEL practices with their child; and there are activities, songs, and videos for students from grades primary to six (I especially like the song about Feelings performed by Dave Matthews and Grover from Sesame Street :)

It is my hope that the entire family will check these lessons out at their own pace, and talk about the topics in greater detail; for when could there ever be a better time than right now, to work on understanding ourselves, thinking about others and making community minded decisions?

Yours in good health,

Ms. Topshee

School Counsellor

htopshee@hrce.ca