A message from our Student Support Team
Counseling Corner
June 5,2020
The focus of our final Counseling Corner is “Staying Strong”
It is exciting that our world is slowly getting back to normal. As the governor lifts restrictions, we may find ourselves experiencing a range of emotions. Our hope is that the tips we have shared will prove beneficial when tackling the thoughts and feelings that may arise in the coming months.
Worries and fears can, if we let them, consume us and prevent us from feeling capable of handling life’s challenges. Recognizing what we can control in our lives and utilizing this control can help us feel secure, competent, and optimistic about the future. Fear has a way of paralyzing us and leading us to believe that we do not have choices. However, it also has the valuable purpose of protecting us. Fear helps us identify potential harm; yet, at times we may need to override our sense of fear and ask ourselves:
· Is my fear response appropriate for the situation?
· How does the fear serve me?
· Does the fear protect me?
Be mindful that we may choose how to respond to the events in our lives. Rather than succumbing to fear, focus on ways to overcome it. Think back to when we first learned of COVID, reflect on any uneasy emotions you may have experienced. Despite these feelings, you did it! You were able to overcome such emotions. Remember the adage, “this too shall pass.”
It is not productive to remain in a constant state of fear. Take actions to be safe, utilize your resources, and make informed decisions.
While the counseling department hoped to say goodbye in person, we want you to know that we wish the 8th graders all the best, are excited for the rising 6th and 7th graders and look forward to seeing everyone in the Fall!
Have a Happy and Healthy Summer,
Mr. Witte, Mrs. Scott, Ms. Harman & Mrs. Cashen
June 1, 2020
The focus of this week’s Counseling Corner is Responsibility.
Responsibility, a big word with an even bigger impact!
This is an age where children are learning how to make decisions and build essential life skills. One of the paramount skills is responsibility. As their brains develop, parents play a critical role in building their confidence, independence, self-reliance, and ultimately being more responsible. Remember, becoming more responsible is an ongoing process. Students require patience, understanding, and a caring touch. They need space to make mistakes and learn from them.
Why is it important?
Children want to be active members of society and make positive contributions; what better way to learn how to be responsible members of society then by practicing at home. This is a great time to help your student develop this skill, build their self-confidence, and give them a sense of purpose. Right now, with the added stressors being put on families, it’s as important as ever to have the entire family chip in to keep things running smoothly.
Consider acknowledging the responsibilities of your child, provide accolades for what they are doing well or consider having a conversation, if necessary, to take their responsibilities more seriously. Kids need to understand that there are several forms of responsibility- their own self-care, family welfare and their community/society at large. Research shows that children who help around the house are likely to help in other situations than those children who simply participate in caring for themselves.
So how does this work? There is a relationship between responsibility, accountability and reward. Teach, allow your child to try, try again, problem solve, use resources, and then ask for help/assistance. Refrain from telling your child that they are irresponsible; instead give them the skills they need to be responsible. Do not shy away from rewarding them in a variety of ways such as praise, freedom or monetarily.
Teach your kids that as Eleanor Roosevelt said, “They not only have the right to be an individual, they have an obligation to be one”.
For tips and techniques, see Healthy Habits below:
Healthy Habits
- Provide routine and structure
- Establish clear expectations and be consistent with those expectations
- Involve your child in appropriate household decision making
- Be available for problem solving and help your child see consequences of their decisions
- Help your child work through his or her feelings or fears
- Ensure your child doesn’t sidestep the difficulty that might be associated with the task
Need to Talk?
Should your student have questions, need assistance, or someone to talk to - counselors are available Monday - Friday from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. If you or your student would like to speak to a counselor, please email your student’s counselor to schedule a time.
7th Grade Becky Harman r_harm2@carrollk12.org
8th Grade Sherry Scott scscot2@carrollk12.org
6th Grade Tyler Witte tewitte@carrollk12.org
https://www.ahaparenting.com/parenting-tools/character/responsibility
May 17,2020
The focus of this week’s Counseling Corner is Extroversion.
You may recall from last week’s corner that 50% of the counseling department identify as introverts. The remaining 50%, our social butterflies, state that they are extroverts. Our extroverts state they:
- Seek out social stimulation
- Tend to feel recharged or reinvigorated by being around people
- Are list makers
- Enjoy making friends
- Seek novel experiences and don’t mind taking risks
- Are highly adaptable
Why is it important?
While extroverts may appear to be go getters and highly adaptable, they may also struggle with the restrictions that come along with the Stay at Home Order. You may find that your student seeks more attention than usual, may exhibit sadness as a result of isolation, may seem to wander aimlessly. It is important to build ‘things to look forward to’ into your student’s schedule. Remember that novel experiences are important to extroverted individuals. As a result, you may want to help your child identify new, challenging experiences.
You may want to consider:
- Online classes that promote socialization (i.e. dance, exercise)
- Game nights with distant family/friends via social internet platforms
- Competitive experiences with friends (scavenger hunts, relay races)
- Community (social distancing friendly) activities (sidewalk chalk art walks, teddy bear sightings)
- Rube Goldberg Challenges (6th graders are doing these in their science classes)
As stated last week, patience can go a long way in helping you support your child. Extroverts and introverts can be complimentary rather than combative. Attempt to seek ways to understand those who are different from you. Being an extrovert is not a bad thing, their skills sets are as valuable as extroverts. Everyone appreciates being accepted for who they are.
Need to Talk?
Should your student have questions, need assistance, or someone to talk to - counselors are available Monday - Friday from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. If you or your student would like to speak to a counselor, please email your student’s counselor to schedule a time.
6th Grade Becky Harman r_harm2@carrollk12.org
7th Grade Sherry Scott scscot2@carrollk12.org
8th Grade Tyler Witte tewitte@carrollk12.org
May 8, 2020
The focus of this week’s Counseling Corner is Introversion.
50% of the counseling department identify as Introverts. Our Introverts state that they enjoy alone time, may become drained when in crowds or near unfamiliar people, prefer activities that are self-directed and tend to avoid being the center of attention. Do you find that you or your student relate with this group of people? The media often stereotypes introverts as enjoying social distancing. While this may be partially true, social distancing has proven difficult for many individuals. So, how do you thrive while social distancing if you are an introvert?
Introverts may find that they require less social stimulation than an extrovert; however, some level of socialization is healthy for everyone. It is important to note that a sense of belonging is a fundamental human need. When we feel like we belong, we may gain a sense of personal value and purpose. Socialization is not the only way to gain a sense of purpose or belonging. Introverts may benefit from finding a connection to hobbies, accomplishments and activities rather than people. Consider self-improvement activities such as learning a new language, planting a garden, learning to play an instrument, crafting, cooking, reading or participating in solitary sport such as golf, cycling, running.
Why is it important?
Understanding the behaviors exhibited by a student who identifies as an introvert may help you find the best way to communicate with your child. If you, as a parent, identify as an extrovert you may find it difficult to effectively communicate with your introverted child. Try these tips:
- Accept & Embrace that your child identifies as an introvert
- Encourage your child to seek out outlets for self-expression (i.e. journaling, art, etc.)
- Give them gentle nudges, don’t push too hard
- Respect their need for privacy
- Work with their strengths
- Teach them to understand and celebrate their uniqueness
(Source below)
Patience can go a long way in helping you support your child. Extroverts and introverts can be complimentary rather than combative. Attempt to seek ways to understand those who are different from you. Being an introvert is not a bad thing, their skills sets are as valuable as extroverts. Everyone appreciates being accepted for who they are.
Need to Talk?
Should your student have questions, need assistance, or someone to talk to - counselors are available Monday - Friday from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. If you or your student would like to speak to a counselor, please email your student’s counselor to schedule a time.
6th Grade Becky Harman r_harm2@carrollk12.org
7th Grade Sherry Scott scscot2@carrollk12.org
8th Grade Tyler Witte tewitte@carrollk12.org
Source: Price, C. (n.d.). Raising an introverted child in an extroverted world. Retrieved from https://www.heysigmund.com/raising-introverted-child-extroverted-world/
Mental Health Awareness Week May 4 – 8
There is no health without mental health! Be sure to take care of yourself this week.
#BreaktheStigma
May 1, 2020
The focus of this week’s Counseling Corner is Connectedness
What is Connectedness?
Connectedness – e.g., providing each other mutual support and committing to one another
Why is it important?
Feeling socially connected, especially in an increasingly isolated world, is more important than ever. The benefits of social connectedness shouldn't be overlooked. Social connection doesn’t necessarily mean physically being present with people in a literal sense, but someone’s subjective experience of feeling understood and connected to others
As growing pre-teens and teens, students need to develop and maintain social connectedness for their mental health and well-being. Isolation can lead to feelings of depression and/or increased anxiety as well as physical ailments. On the bright side, research indicates that we may gain a sense of connections even when we are physically apart.
How can you become more connected?
Maintaining strong, healthy relationships with others means opening up, actively listening, and being willing to share what you’re going through. This is a difficult time for most; but it is also a prime opportunity to develop strong social connectedness, that will help lay a strong foundation for healthy relationships throughout life.
Try to reframe social distancing as physical distancing. While we cannot be together physically, we can continue to socialize.
Healthy Habits
Try to stay connected through:
- Scheduling regular phone calls with friends
- Engaging in virtual game nights
- Appropriate social media usage to support self and others
- Write letters to those you care about
- Dedicating artwork to those you misses
- Bonding with those you are staying at home with by playing games, cooking together, home projects, etc.
Need to Talk?
Should your student have questions, need assistance, or someone to talk to - counselors are available Monday - Friday from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. If you or your student would like to speak to a counselor, please email your student’s counselor to schedule a time.
6th Grade Becky Harman r_harm2@carrollk12.org
7th Grade Sherry Scott scscot2@carrollk12.org
8th Grade Tyler Witte tewitte@carrollk12.org
April 24, 2020
The focus of this week’s Counseling Corner is Resilience.
What is resilience?
Resilience is the ability to adapt and function when faced with difficult or challenging times. Resilience is a learned ability and one that you must work to strengthen. For some, this could be as simple as getting out of bed, while for others it could be something more deliberate like setting detailed goals to achieve.
How can you help your student build resilience?
- Recognize the legitimacy of your child’s disappointments (dances, sports, activities being canceled) treat them as if they’re your own. Allow your child to feel the emotions that accompany these disappointments.
- Let your child know that you are there to love and support him/her regardless of any mistakes they may make as they grow and learn.
- Provide support but also give your child some space to struggle. Constantly solving problems for your child can undermine their confidence; allow them to trust in their own abilities.
- Focus on positives that come from the current situation (more family time, working in your pajamas, etc.).
For more details on helping your child build resilience, click on the article below:
https://www.wsj.com/articles/as-children-face-disappointments-parents-can-help-them-develop-resilience-11585056589
Healthy Habits - “Resilience is better than bubble wrap because it is about developing internal strength rather than relying on an external shield.” (Source listed at bottom of page).
*A simple exercise to build your resilience muscle: At the end of each day look back at the past 24 hours and appreciate three positive things that happened, whether big or small. Gratitude is one way to build resilience.
Need to Talk? Should your student have questions, need assistance, or someone to talk to - counselors are available Monday - Friday from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. If you or your student would like to speak to a counselor, please email your student’s counselor to schedule a time.
6th Grade Becky Harman r_harm2@carrollk12.org 7th Grade Sherry Scott scscot2@carrollk12.org 8th Grade Tyler Witte tewitte@carrollk12.org
Source: Ginsburg MD, MSEd., K. (2018, September 4). Building Resilience: The 7 Cs. Parent and teen.com. https://parentandteen.com/building-resilience-in-teens/
April 20, 2020
Ever have a bad day, or a rough week? We all do. At times it may seem as if nothing is going our way. We may find ourselves stuck in a rut of negative thoughts. You may notice yourself, or your student experiencing days like this. Read on to learn ways to combat your blues.
This week our focus is on the benefits of shifting perspective.
Many of us can identify optimistic and pessimistic people. While no one is always positive, some people often seem to see the glass as half full. Having a natural affinity for remaining positive is helpful during times like this. But when life gets you down, there are ways to shift your focus from the negative to the positive. For example, you may have heard of positive self-talk or positive affirmations. These are great ways to give your perspective a boost. Another great way is through gratitude.
“Gratitude is an emotion similar to appreciation, and positive psychology research has found neurological reasons why so many people can benefit from this general practice of expressing thanks for our lives, even in times of challenge and change.” (source below)
Healthy Habits
Gratitude can help us reframe our current situation. By recognizing that there are aspects of our lives that we can be grateful for we may find a more positive outlook.
Gratitude Jar - If you notice that you tend to focus on things that go wrong or do not turn out as you’ve planned, this activity may encourage you to focus on the positive aspects of your life. Doing this exercise continuously may shift your negative focus and breathe positivity into your daily life.
Click on the Gratitude Jar activity above, try it out, and note whether there is a shift in your thinking towards a more positive mindset.
April 9, 2020
Is your student struggling to find motivation? Is it difficult for your student to focus on his/her school assignments? If so, look at the resources provided for some tips and techniques.
This week our focus is on the benefits of establishing a daily routine.
Did you know research has found that establishing a daily routine can limit your anxiety?
Routines that have a consistent wake, work, recreation and sleep time provides us with a sense of control and security. Constantly having to make new decisions about a schedule each day can be overwhelming. Establishing a consistent routine may limit your stress and decrease anxious feelings.
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/women-autism-spectrum-disorder/202003/how-keep-healthy-routines-during-coronavirus
Healthy Habits
Start each day with a to do list. Checking the boxes will give you a sense of accomplishment as the day goes on. Below is a link that gives an idea of what a daily routine may look like for your child:
https://lifesuccessforteens.com/healthy-habits-calm-anxiety
Need to Talk?
Should your student have questions, need assistance, or someone to talk to - counselors are available
Monday - Friday from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. While some teachers may be utilizing video components, counselors are only available by email and phone at this time. If you or your student would like to speak to a counselor over the phone, please email your student’s counselor to schedule a time.
6th Grade Becky Harman r_harm2@carrollk12.org
7th Grade Sherry Scott scscot2@carrollk12.org
8th Grade Tyler Witte tewitte@carrollk12.org
April 3, 2020
Happy Friday,
The Counseling Department is excited to introduce our Counselor’s Corner. Every week we will post resources, tools, and techniques to support your child during our closure.
This week our focus is on how to educate your student on COVID 19. Concerned about your child receiving false information about COVID 19? Please visit the following site to read up on how to discuss COVID 19 with your child: https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/school-climate-safety-and-crisis/health-crisis-resources/helping-children-cope-with-changes-resulting-from-covid-19
Healthy Habits It is important that we maintain healthy habits during this difficult time. Every week, we will provide you with a habit to focus on. This week’s healthy habit: Are you waking up and going to bed at the same time every day? Research shows us that maintaining a schedule keeps our bodies healthy.
Need to Talk? Should your child have questions, need assistance, or someone to talk to - counselors are available Monday - Friday from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. While some teachers may be utilizing video components, counselors are only available by email and phone at this time. If you or your child would like to speak to a counselor over the phone, please email your student’s counselor to schedule a time.
6th Grade Becky Harman - r_harm2@carrollk12.org 7th Grade Sherry Scott - scscot2@carrollk12.org 8th Grade Tyler Witte - tewitte@carrollk12.org
Message from Taneytown Library - If anyone needs a Wi-Fi hotspot for free internet access, the Taneytown branch library parking lot is available. To keep busy, families can also access books, movies, tv shows, magazines, and music, as well as access online databases, from the library's website: https://library.carr.org
If you do not have a library card to access these things, you can register for one below, and then pick up the physical card within 2 months from the date of registration (hopefully we'll be re-opened by then). The library is also offering a Spring Reading Challenge to encourage people of all ages to read. Information about that can also be found on the library's home page.https://catalog.carr.org/patronaccount/selfregister.aspx?ctx=17.1033.0.0.5
Sheetz – “Kids Meal Bagz” - Sheetz has begun distributing food to kids and the Taneytown Sheetz is a participating store. See the link below for more information. https://www.sheetz.com/news/kidzmeals