UPCOMING PARENT SESSION
Using the Science of a meaningful life to cultivate social and emotional wellbeing in children.
Presented by Dr Vicki Zakrzewski Education Director of the Greater Good Science Centre
Wednesday October 7th at 12.30 – 2pm MPB1
COUNSELORS ROLE IN SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL LEARNING
As Counselors we value immensely the social and emotional development of children, as we know this supports their academic success. Social and emotional learning (SEL) helps our children learn how to be a successful human beings. When we speak with our parents and we ask them this question, “ What do you wish most for your child in their lives?” without exception, parents hope for their children to be healthy and happy as their primary goals.
So what is Social and Emotional Learning?
Social and Emotional learning (SEL) is a philosophy that is centered on the positive social and emotional development of each student. You can see on this SEL wheel what competencies can be developed:-
Developing students self awareness, of others and the world around them, is a fundamental skill in cultivating a sense of wellbeing. Learning self awareness, understanding, and compassion towards our mind and body is a vital life skill, that allows us to respond to whatever difficulties may arise. It enables us to reflect and make wise decisions that promote healthier living.
Essentially, human life is about three basic relationships, our relationship with ourselves, with others and the wider world. Social Emotional Learning, is the key to developing and applying the skills required to enhance these relationships, for a meaningful, happier life.
The Greater Good Science Centre is at the forefront in research and practice in this field and we are thrilled to have experts, with us next week. MS Counselors and Wellness teachers seek to infuse and inspire our students and each other to create the conditions needed to flourish relationally. We value highly the qualities of gratitude, integrity, empathy, kindness for self and others . Our MS Wellness program seeks to cultivate, and nourish these behaviors in our students. We will share with you over the course of this year, what our students are learning in Wellness class, so you can have some deep and thoughtful conversations with your children. In the meantime, our learning journey with the GGSC next week will help deepen our awareness and practice in this field too. We can’t wait!
If you are interested in reading why SEL matters, read on.
https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/social_emotional_learning_why_now
On a final note, next week in Counselors Corner I will be sharing with you about Mindfulness and our program here at ISB….
Jackie Greenwood 8th grade Counselor