Hello, amazing parents and students!

During the month of March we embarked on a journey of empowerment with the division theme of Positive Mindset.  This month, we tried to delve into the transformative power of cultivating positivity and embracing an optimistic outlook on life.  Here is how we sought to uncover the magic of mindset that can light up our days and inspire us to reach for the stars. 

Kimochis

Teachers and support staff continue to encourage social and emotional learning use the Kimochi’s language such as the Kotowaza’s and reminding students of the Kimochi’s Keys to Communication.  We hope you noticed our Kimochi Korner bulletin boards as you toured the school during Parent Teacher Interviews.  The Kimochi Kotowaza’s associated with each character are as follows: 

Bug- Put your brave in front.

Lovey Dove - Friendly faces create friendly spaces.

Huggtopus- For silly to be fun, it has to be fun for everyone. 

Cloud- It is okay to be mad, it is not okay to be mean

Cat- Everyone makes mistakes, everyone deserves a redo.

Virtue of the Month: Empathy

The virtue of the month for March was empathy.  Have you ever heard the expression, “stand in my shoes” or “take a walk in their shoes?”  This means you think about what it would be like to be that person. How would you feel? What would you need?  The practice of “putting yourself in someone else’s shoes” or understanding how someone feels is empathy.  During our Monday morning assemblies students were introduced to the concept of empathy and watched several videos to help them further understand the virtue.  Students learned that there are three steps to empathy. These three steps are as follows: 

1. Try to understand how the person is feeling. 
2. Think about what that person might need. 
3. Do something to show you care.  

If you would like to reinforce the lessons on empathy at home, here are some of the videos and stories shared during assembly: 

Sesame Street on Empathy

Stand in My Shoes by Bob Sornson

A Little Spot of Empathy by Diane Alber

Division Wellness Spotlight: Positive Mindset

The Division Wellness Spotlight for March was Positive Mindset.  Having a positive mindset means you are optimistic about the world around you, and you expect that good things will happen to you (Twinkl.ca). For some of us having a positive mindset comes easy, for others, it can take a lot of practice.  It is important to try and foster a positive mindset as it can help us cope with difficult situations, as well as reduce stress and anxiety. 

Resource Roundup: Nurturing a Positive Mindset

Explore these thoughtfully selected resources for parents and students of all ages, designed to inspire and foster a positive mindset:

• Check out this great story about the power of changing our thinking from “I can’t” to “Not yet.”  The Magical Yet by Angela DiTerlizzi
• Did you know that yoga helps manage anxiety, improves emotional regulation, boosts self- esteem, and increases mindfulness, among other positive benefits? Start encouraging yoga in your home when children are young and see all the benefits yourself. Try some positive thinking yoga using this link, or any of the other great yoga videos for children on YouTube: Kids Yoga for Positive Thinking!

For more resources, check out the Positive Mindset page on the NLPS website.

Reflecting on Last Month: Your Insights Matter!

In February, we celebrated acts of kindness. Share your experiences: How did our previous mental health blog post on kindness impact your family? We value your feedback and ideas.

Nurturing a Positive Mindset: Tips for Students

Students, let's embrace positivity:

• Gratitude Practice: Start your day by listing three things you're grateful for. It could be as simple as a sunny day, a delicious breakfast, or spending time with friends. This practice shifts your focus to the good things in life and sets a positive tone for the day ahead.
• Positive Affirmations: Repeat positive statements about yourself and your abilities. Remind yourself that you're capable, resilient, and worthy of success. These affirmations help rewire your brain, replacing self-doubt with self-belief.
• Surround Yourself with Positivity: Choose friends and mentors who radiate positivity and support your goals. Seek out inspiring books, podcasts, or YouTube channels that uplift and motivate you. Surrounding yourself with positivity creates an environment that fuels your growth and optimism.
• Challenge Negative Thoughts: Catch those negative thoughts and challenge them with positive alternatives. Instead of saying, "I can't do it," reframe it as "I am capable of learning and growing." Train your mind to see possibilities instead of roadblocks.

Connect with Our Student Advocacy Counsellors: Reach Out for Support

Need guidance or wish to discuss well-being? Our Student Advocacy Counselors are ready to help. 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 positivity and empowerment together.

Here's to an Easter break filled with sunshine-filled thoughts, empowering moments, and a tapestry of positivity. Let's nurture our minds and radiate the brilliance within!