How to Talk to Kids about Race and Privilege
Many families and educators may be wondering about how they can support students as they grow their awareness and engage in conversations about social injustice and inequity. Good Morning America shared this article by Katie Kindelan & Sarah Lang which guides adults in their reflection with children about these important issues.
Student Support Resources
Choice Boards for Managing Emotions
Providing a safe and nurturing space for students is important when developing supportive learning environments. In a recent SEL Ignite Webinar, Pamela O’Shea, a 3rd-grade teacher at Centerville ES, shared that she uses the following choice board to engage her students on Flipgrid to reflect on their emotions or how they might manage them when faced with difficult situations. Also, take a look at the SEL choice board created by Margo Litzenberg, School Counselor at Shelton Park ES, which gives students the opportunity to explore, reflect, and share!
Many teachers are creating virtual “Bitmoji” classrooms! Take a look at the virtual Art Studio created by Shelton Park ES Art teacher, Ms. Burr, which includes hyperlinked instructional videos!
Virtual Classrooms with Bitmoji
Strategies for Developing Independence
In a recent Mindshift article, Amielle Major discusses “How to Develop Culturally Responsive Teaching for Distance Learning.” As she reflects on inequities that have been exposed due to the pandemic, she shares three strategies for helping students develop independence and become leaders in their own learning:
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Deepen background knowledge and connect to what students know about their home, community, and interests.
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Cultivate cognitive routines such as doodling or sketchnoting.
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Building word wealth using games such as: Scrabble, Heads Up, or Taboo.
Family Support Resources
Solving Problems with the Fire Pirates
Here is a great Podcast episode from Imagine Neighborhood which focuses on problem-solving skills! Families can take time to listen with their children and talk about their approaches to problem-solving at home!
Reflecting on the Year
Coach Coates has created this Powtoon video to support families in reflecting on this school year.
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Resources for LGBTQ+ Families
The Neighborhood, A Virtual Hub for LGBTQ+ families, has created a resource for families to find support and connection.
“In this time of social isolation and uncertainty amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, Family Equality is providing spaces for you and your family to connect with others, find support, and build community.”
Mind Yeti
Throughout the school year, many teachers have worked to provide calming supports to students in the classroom. If families are interested in using mindfulness activities at home, check out the video resource Mind Yeti, which is a “library of research-based mindfulness sessions that help kids and adults calm their minds, focus their attention and connect to the world around them.”
30 Random Acts of Fun
Finding ways to create fun while safe at home can be challenging during this time. If you are looking for some new options for activities to do together, check out these random acts of family fun shared on Twitter!
Mental Health Support in Hampton Roads
In a recent Parent Connection event hosted by the Office of Family and Community Engagement, Robert Jamison, Coordinator of the Office of Student Support Services, shared a resource related to increased support for individuals and families. Mr. Jamison discussed resources available through the Coastal Virginia affiliate of NAMI (The National Alliance on Mental Illness) which lists several resource links related to physical and mental health support. Visit their resource page for more information.
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Our school staff are continuing to find ways to nurture community and connection along with creating opportunities for unique Senior celebrations! Below are a few highlights!
