Psychological Safety is as important as physical safety for learning. Unfortunately, under the restrictions of No Child Left Behind, many educators struggle making the time to teach the social and emotional skills we know they need. Dan Goleman’s books Emotional Intelligence and Social Intelligence detail the many ways “we’re wired to connect.” His stories and examples can be springboards for teachers, counselors, and others working to build socially supportive environments in schools.
Preparing this month’s blog, I’m relying on some online resources to make up for my time on the road for workshops. WINGS, an after school program in Charleston, South Carolina teaches children social and emotional smarts. www.wingsforkids.org
Here’s a link to their article that speaks to teaching social intelligence. “The Importance of Learning Social and Emotional Skills: Social and Emotional Skills are the Missing Piece of Education.” http://www.wingsforkids.org/social-emotional-learning?gclid=CIe5mZyS15YCFSTaDAodSXU32w
WINGS for kids also offers Hot Wings, “Small Lessons, Big Difference” short strategies for kids to use to manage their own social and emotional challenges. They remind me of strategies we as counselors teach kids through developmental guidance classes. http://www.wingsforkids.org/experience/hot-wings
Thanks to NWEA workshop participant Karen Wagner for posting this site with great tips for those working with young children:
http://consciousdiscipline.com/ from Dr. Becky Bailey’s Loving Guidance
She also offers other helpful materials on the website.
Moving into this month of gratitude, I appreciate your time and commitment dedicated to teaching children to understand and manage their own emotions and relationships. It’s important for the future of our nation, as is your vote on Tuesday.
Thanks also for forwarding this information on to others. October was our biggest month ever!
Sandi
© Sandra Sunquist Stanton MS, NCC, LPC, Connections of the Heart LLC
For additional articles and information, visit www.ourbrainbuddies.com or send an email sandi@ourbrainbuddies.com