Greetings, wonderful parents and students!

In December we embarked on a heartwarming journey centered around the theme of Compassion. This month, we explored the power of empathy and acts of generosity that can warm hearts and create a positive ripple effect in our lives and communities.  Here is how we delved into the beautiful world of compassion, igniting a season of giving, understanding, and shared joy. 

Kimochis

Mrs. Baillargeon and Mrs. Rychlo finished up their classroom presentations this month.  Students met the character of Cat this month and discussed how they can show compassion and heal hurtful moments.  Students have now had an opportunity to meet all the Kimochis characters.  We encourage you to ask your child about the characters and their personalities. 

Virtue of the Month- Generosity 

The virtue of the month for December was generosity. Generosity is a character trait much like kindness or honesty. To be generous means to give with your whole heart. It is more than just about giving money or toys or presents. It is giving your time, your love, or simple kindness. One can also be generous with their time, their talents, their treasures, and their positive attitudes.  Mrs. Centazzo and our Peace Patrol Officers helped the whole school learn about generosity during our morning announcements.  Students were also challenged daily to show generosity through our “Generosity Advent Calendar” It was great to see all our buddies showing generosity and kindness during this Christmas season. 

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

• 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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.

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 at janice.baillargeon@nlsd.ab.ca or stephanie.rychlo@nlsd.ab.ca or call (780)826-3992. Let's continue our journey of compassion and kindness together.

Our Student Advocacy Counsellors will also be starting small groups in the New Year.  If you feel your child needs to improve their social or emotional regulation skills please contact your child's classroom teacher so they can be referred for group!

Here's to a Christmas season filled with empathy, kindness, and a tapestry of shared joy.