Practical Ways to Carry Over SEL at Home:

Use Similar Language: Incorporate the same social-emotional terminology we use at school. Discuss feelings, problem-solving, and empathy using the vocabulary introduced in the 'Second Step' curriculum.

Terminology we use at Brooks Elementary school include;

• Expected vs Unexpected Behavior - Expected behaviors keep others calm and comfortable in situations, where an Unexpected behavior is a behavior that other people might find stressful or could make someone feel uncomfortable in the situation

• Zones of Regulation - Zones of Regulation is an approach used to support the development of self-regulation in children. All the different ways children feel and the states of alertness they experience are categorized into four colored zones that can be paired with self-regulation strategies

• Size of the Problem - Size of problem allows children to differentiate between minor issues and more significant challenges, enabling them to develop appropriate coping strategies by categorizing problems into three categories. For example, small problems have small reactions, medium problems have medium reactions and large problems have large reactions. 

• Whole Body Listening - Whole body listening is a useful tool that breaks down the tasks involved in listening

Set Expectations: Establish clear expectations for behavior at home. Encourage safe, respectful, and responsible actions, mirroring the principles of our PBIS system.

Model Healthy Communication: Demonstrate effective communication and active listening. Discuss your own emotions openly and encourage your child to express their feelings in a safe and supportive environment.

Problem-Solving Together: Practice collaborative problem-solving at home. Encourage your child to think critically about challenges they may encounter and explore solutions together.

Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate your child's achievements, both big and small. This positive reinforcement fosters a sense of accomplishment and reinforces the importance of their positive actions.

By working together, we can create an environment that supports the holistic development of your child. Thank you for your continued partnership in fostering a positive and enriching educational experience for every student at Brooks Elementary.