The first month is always about introducing myself and my job. It is very important to me for the students to understand what my role at Parkwood is and how I can help them here at school. We spend a good time discussing this and the classroom rules and expectations on their first visit...but we always have time for a short fun lesson too! See the pics and summaries below for what 5th, 4th, and 3rd grades have done so far!
(Mrs. Hensley and Ms. Moncrieffe enjoying the 5th grade game too!)
This is one of my favorite lessons I have ever done as an introduction to the role of a school counselor! I found it on exploringschoolcounseling.blogspot.com back in September of 2014 and I have done it with my fifth grade classes ever since. As a class we make 'Counselor Catchers' and Students Play a game asking each other questions related to my job and topics that we cover in guidance.
My fourth grade introductory activity is called 'Scribbles'. It is a modified version of a lesson I got a the North Carolina School Counselor's Conference years ago. It is a lesson that creates a conversation about problem solving, over coming difficult situations, believing in yourself, and never giving up! It is one of my favorites too...and usually is with the students too! This is one from the 'Dedmond Hall of Fame'!