Counselor’s Corner - February 27, 2023 Issue

Dear Teacher,

Several Octobers ago, our family of four opted for a less traditional approach than what usually happens that time of year.  Instead of allowing my daughters to choose their own costumes, my husband made an intentional decision to outfit our family of four as the Cat In The Hat, Thing One, Thing Two, and Mother of All Things.  We completed our characters with blue wigs, striped tights, and a tall red-and-white hat.  

Together, we walked the neighborhood, as many families were doing, but there was something about being a "Dr.-Seuss-Family" that really connected us.  Our next-door neighbor had us pose for a picture in his front lawn.  Others quoted a line or two from the book.  We even upped the ante by knocking on doors and substituting the standard trick-or-treat for "Now! Now! Have no fear. Have no fear! said the cat.  My tricks are not bad,' said that Cat in the Hat."  The fact that we were celebrating together made the day special and allowed us to be more in-tune with one another.

And you, teacher, there in your classroom, may be celebrating Read Across America this coming week.  Sure, there will be the excitement of dress-down days complete with striped hats, blue fur, and the occasional one-antlered Max.  But you, Teacher Of All Things, know that this week can be more than that.  It can be a time when you celebrate connection and togetherness between students.  Using the Teacher Tips Mental Health Zone sections below, hone in how to enhance student relationships, bring about conflict resolution, and enhance social-emotional growth within your classroom.  Celebrate the special day together allow it to bring your class closer and more in-tune with one another.  Above all, use this coming Thursday to celebrate the unity of your student body in reflection of Psalm 133:1:

"How good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!"

Praising God for your connection with each student,
Mindy Salyers
Christian School Counselor