Greetings, wonderful parents and students!
As December arrives, we're embarking on a heartwarming journey centered around the theme of Compassion. This month, let's explore the power of empathy and acts of kindness that have the ability to warm hearts and create a positive ripple effect in our lives and communities. Join us as we delve into the beautiful world of compassion, igniting a season of giving, understanding, and shared joy.
The Outreach schools provides opportunities for our students to participate in activities that will encourage interactions with others and of course with their teachers. This can look different for each school while we travers the pre-holiday time this December. With Activities, snacks, conversations, and of course food all this will make this December appear a short month for our students.
This particular holiday season seems to encourage others to give of themselves by getting involved. Here are a few things to warm your heart.
Donate to the food banks- many will be struggling to purchase that little bit extra for their families.
Donate an unwrapped present- there are many places that are gathering gifts and personal items for those who are not able to buy groceries let alone a gift for their children or teen.
Wish a stranger a Merry Christmas or just a Happy Holiday. Make their day a bit brighter with a big smile and those few little words can make a difference for someone.
: Nurturing Compassion
Discover these carefully selected resources for parents and students of all ages, designed to inspire compassion and kindness:
- This is a short 2.55 minute simple suitable clip on compassion in action. presented from a view point from children and is encouraging for all ages. Please copy the url and paste it if unable to open on this page. https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=cAFq6PcFYgI
For more resources, check out the Compassion page on the NLPS website. (cut and Paste to view)
Reflecting on Last Month: Your Insights Matter!
In November, looked and engages on building positive connections. Here is a question for you. How did you enjoy our previous mental health blog post? We'd also love to hear the feedback and ideas that fostered compassion in your lives.
Nurturing Compassion: What is Compassion it is a social feeling that motivates people to go out of their way to relieve the physical, mental, or emotional pains of others and themselves.
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 not only make a positive impact but also develop a sense of compassion and social responsibility.
To Connect with Our Student Advocacy Counsellors: Reach Out for Support
Seeking guidance or want to discuss well-being? Our Student Advocacy Counsellors are here for you. Reach out at lora.harder@nlsd.ab.ca at the Cold Lake Outreach or call 780-594-6885. Reach out with crystal.anderson@nlsd.ab.ca at Lac La Biche(also Journeys and Crossroads) Outreach or call 780-623-2658. Reach out at judy.livingston@nlsd.ab.ca at Bonnyville Outreach or call 780-826-3111. We enjoy connecting with our students and parents/guardians whether by phone or in person give us a call.
Here's to a December filled with empathy, kindness, and a tapestry of shared joy. Let's cultivate compassion and brighten each other's paths! A gift or time and caring is better than any bought present. Take time to grow your blessings with family and friends and enjoy the holidays