Back to School Lessons

School is back in session next month, and although I have thoroughly enjoyed my summer break I am thrilled to begin the school year. My mind has been filled with tons of questions, many of which I will not get the answers to until we are officially back in school. I have been thinking about how I want to introduce myself to my students. I looked on Pinterest and then went through the posts on the many FB groups that I belong to. One idea that has come up multiple times is using Mr./ Mrs. Potato Head. After seeing it numerous times, I researched what resources were available and the cost. This lesson is a visual representation of the role of a counselor. I want the lesson to be engaging so that the students are able to create a mental picture. This activity will serve as a reminder of how I can support them and what my role is in the school. 
I looked online and found that Amazon's price (as of 7/20/2019) was the cheapest and includes free shipping with Prime shipping! I found a seller on TPT that has a FREE handout that accompanies this lesson. Click the below to be taken directly to this resource. Be sure to leave the seller (Spark Success Counseling) positive feedback.
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mrs-Potato-Parts-Meet-the-Counselor-Handout-1982848
If you are looking for a back to school activity that is engaging, this may be the one for you! 

Students come into our schools with baggage. It is important that we understand that the baggage that they bring into our buildings are often things that they can not control. If that student doesn't have a pencil, give them one. If they are sleepy, give them a few minutes to rest their head. Be a safe place for them, build a relationship with the child and you just may change their life. Classroom teachers, school counselors, and the other adults in the building have the capacity to make a difference for these students. 

Office with a view

 An Office with a View

I stopped in to look at my new office space. I was told I could begin moving my stuff in. The above picture is of my new office. I have a large bookcase and closet as well.  The school opened at the beginning of the current school year, so everything is new.I am looking forward to adding my personalized touch to this space. I just need to make a decision. Should it be counselor friendly or student friendly, rose gold decor, or bright colors?  

Decorating will be fun, but I also want to make sure I have the necessary tools to support my students. I have purchased fidgets, Inside Out movie plushes, stress squishes, and several read-aloud books. What other tools do you feel are invaluable in your job as a counselor?

Click the picture below to view the fidget kit I ordered for my students use. The set can be bought on Amazon for $13.99.

A gift left just for me

The previous counselor (who was a part of the interview committee) left me a shelf of resource books. It was nice to read her note that included her contact information, lesson plan books, and extra resources to help me have a fabulous first year. I am also very blessed because I will be working with another full-time counselor who has an office directly across from mine. I know she will be an invaluable resource.   I am a new counselor, so having an experienced counselor working in the building with me is a fantastic way to start my new career.