Greetings, wonderful parents and students!
This month, The Iron River Dragons, went on a heartwarming journey centered around the theme of Compassion. They explored the power of empathy and acts of kindness that can warm hearts and create a positive ripple effect in our lives and communities. The elementary students read “The Invisible Boy” and completed activities centered around compassion, kindness, and empathy.
The older students completed journal entries in their Writer’s Notebooks on Compassion and what they would do if they could change someone’s day with an act of compassion.
Resource Roundup: Nurturing Compassion
Discover these carefully selected resources for parents and students of all ages, designed to inspire compassion and kindness:
- How to strengthen your child's self-confidence with self-compassion
- Self-Hug Poster
- Compassion/Kindness Scavenger Hunt
For more resources, check out the Compassion page on the NLPS website.
Reflecting on Last Month: Your Insights Matter!
In November, we celebrated the art of building positive connections. Share your experiences: How did our previous mental health blog post bring warmth to your family? We'd love to hear the feedback and ideas that fostered compassion in your lives.
Nurturing Compassion: Tips for Students
Students, let's embrace compassion:
- Random Acts of Kindness: Surprise someone with a small act of kindness. It could be holding the door open, offering a genuine compliment, or helping a classmate with their backpack. These little gestures can brighten someone's day and create a ripple effect of kindness.
- Active Listening: Practice the art of truly listening to others. Put away distractions, maintain eye contact, and show genuine interest in what they have to say. By being fully present and attentive, you validate their feelings and show that you care.
- Empathy Exercises: Put your empathy muscles to work by imagining yourself in someone else's situation. How would you feel? What challenges would you face? This exercise helps you understand and relate to others on a deeper level, fostering compassion and understanding.
- Volunteer: Engage in community service or join a service club at your school. By actively participating in projects that help others, you make a positive impact and develop a sense of compassion and social responsibility.
Connect with Our Student Advocacy Counsellors: Reach Out for Support
Need guidance or wish to discuss well-being? Our Student Advocacy Counsellors are here for you. Reach out to danielle.webb@nlsd.ab.ca or call (780) 826-5617 Let's continue our journey of compassion and kindness together.
Here's to a wonderful winter break filled with empathy, kindness, and a tapestry of shared joy. Let's cultivate compassion and brighten each other's paths!