School Psychology Services
As we all start to navigate the new world of online learning and communication, we welcome you to our website as a point of reference. We will use this webpage, in addition to the general Guidance Department website, to provide information, resources, and supportive materials. Please be assured, we remain available to you by email, phone, and video conference.
MESMS School Psychologists:
Dr. Tricia Clauser
Grades 7 & 8
914-243-8100 (ext. 12647)
Mrs. Lissette Gonzalez-Sforza
Grade 6, 8:1+2 class & 504's
914-243-8100 (ext. 12640)
Dr. Clauser's Bitmoji Office
Mrs. Gonzalez-Sforza's Bitmoji Office
COVID-19 Info:
Talking to children about COVID-19 (Coronavirus) can be a difficult task, especially during a period of heightened anxiety. Below are a few resources to help you navigate this topic at home.
Online Resources for children:
Just For Kids: A Comic Exploring the New Coronavirus
Online Resources for parents:
Talking to Kids About the Coronavirus
Talking to Children About Covid-19 (Coronavirus): A Parent Resource
Handling Uncertainty Amidst COVID-19
If you have ever been on an airplane, the flight attendants present the safety information and always tell you that in the event of a crisis, you should put your own oxygen mask on before you assist those around you. The philosophy is that we cannot help others if we do not take care of ourselves. The same holds true for taking care of your children and your family. If as adults, we do not care for ourselves, we cannot care for those around us.
We are in historic and stressful times right now. Think about the big picture; find ways to take care of yourself, even if for small minutes in small ways.
Other Helpful Resources for Parents:
Mindfulness activities are not only great for children but adults can use mindfulness to relax, tune out, rest and sleep better. Check this resource out:
SEL Learning
“I have no doubt that the survival of the human race depends at least as much on the cultivation of social and emotional intelligence, as it does on the development of technical knowledge and skills. Most educators believe that the development of the whole child is an essential responsibility of schools, and this belief is what has motivated them to enter the profession.”
Linda Darling-Hammond Handbook of Social and Emotional Learning: Research and Practice, 2015
Social emotional learning (SEL) is essential to creating youth prepared to succeed in life and there after. SEL is a process within which children learn how to apply skills to manage emotions, achieve positive goals, develop empathy, establish and maintain positive relations, and make responsible decisions. During these unprecedented, stressful times, social emotional learning can help to alleviate anxiety in our youth. Please refer to the Social Emotional Learning link on the Guidance website for more information and activities. Choosing one topic a week may be a good gauge for students who struggle in this area.