What are Resource Bags?
Resource bags are bags filled with resources on various topics that can be checked out by families, just as you would check books out at the library. The purpose is to bridge the gap between school and home when families may not know how to help their child process a difficult or traumatic event, or for families who want additional support on various topics. I hope that these bags will help establish deeper relationships with families in our communities. I began this program at Rock Hill Elementary in the Spring of 2022, and have found it to be very beneficial for students and families and the development of social, emotional, and mental health!
What are in these Resource Bags?
Within the bags families will find books focused on select topics to read with your child (I also have self-help and parent books if requested), a folder with resources, information, and activities, many coloring and writing supplies (crayons, journals, pencil/pens, etc.), craft supplies if applicable (memory boxes, etc.), and calming supplies (worry stones, play-doh, tissues, etc.).
How do Resource Bags Work?
Resource bags are checked out through the counselor just like you would check out a book at the library. The drawstring bag will include all the supplies that are available for the topic selected, along with a folder full of information and instruction. A feedback form is also included. This feedback form would be greatly appreciated so I can continue to improve the program to fit the needs of our community and families. The forms will explain what items MUST be returned upon the due date. Books will always need to be returned so we can share them with other families in need. Students will return the bag, book, and any requested returned items within the two week due date that is stated in your folder. I hope you love the resources available and share them with all members of your family!
Topics Available:
Acceptance
Adoption
Anxiety
Anger
Abuse
Behavior
Big Feelings
Body Safety
Bullying
Change
Compassion
Courage
Death
Deployment
Depression
Disappointment
Diversity
Divorce
Domestic Violence
Empathy
Families and Family Units
Fear
Foster Care
Friendship
Goal Setting
Guilt
Illness
Impulse Control
Incarceration
Inclusion
Kindness
Loss
Love
Memorials
Mental Health Disorders within Families
Miscarriage
Mistakes
Moving
Parent Death
Patience
Pet Loss
Bathroom Issues/Toilet Training
PTSD
Rule following
Sadness
Safety
Self-esteem
Separation Anxiety
Sibling Loss
Social Skills
Stress
Therapy
Trauma
Trust
Worry