Hello, wonderful parents and students!

As October graces us with its presence, we embark on a brave journey centered around the theme of Courage. This month, let's uncover the magic of courage and how it can uplift our spirits and nurture our mental well-being. This October, students will be learning about and practicing courageous acts both at school and in their homes by challenging themselves to try new things, understanding it is okay to make mistakes, and standing up for others! 

Virtue of the Month: Courage!

Our virtue of the month for October is courage! During Monday morning assemblies, students watch and discuss virtual story times depicting how courage can be found from within our hearts. Mrs. Baillargeon and Ms. MacEachern encouraged students to explore how they can be courageous and strong within the classroom and at home!

On Monday, October 21, several members of the Bonnyville Pontiacts joined us at our morning assembly to present on Socktober! The pontiacs encouraged students to participate in Socktober by donating socks, personal hygiene products, and mittens! 

Resource Roundup: Nurturing Gratitude

Explore these curated activities designed to inspire courageous acts in parents and students of all ages, enriching your mental health:

Students, embrace courage for a braver school journey.

• Encourage Positive Self-Talk: When a parent or child exclaims  “I can’t do this,” or “I’m not good enough”, counter negative self-thoughts by encouraging children to focus on their strengths, capabilities, and the courage to face challenges.

• Embrace Fear: Work towards conquering and embracing challenges! Safe and non-judgemental spaces allow for children to express fears and learn how to conquer them!

• Read Books on Courage: Books can help children understand courage through themes of growing up and learning to be brave. 
• Make a Challenge Journal: Journaling can help children express their emotions, as well as improve emotional well being by facilitating self-reflection!

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

Guess what? When you practice courage, it's contagious! Your positive vibes can inspire others to do the same. Imagine creating a courageous ripple effect in your school, where everyone bravely tries new activities and work on conquering their fears. It's like a courage revolution! Life isn't always a walk in the park, and we face challenges along the way. But even during tough times, courage can be your secret weapon. When you shift your focus to being brave, it helps you find strength, resilience, and a new perspective. Remember, tough times don't last, but courage does!

Kimochis:

This month, Mrs. Baillargeon and Ms. MacEachern explained how Kimochis can be used to understand both our own, and others feelings. We encourage you to ask your child about how Bug can be used to understand feelings of fear and courage!

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.

Connect with Our Student Advocacy Counsellors: Here to Listen

Seeking guidance or want to discuss well-being? Our Student Advocacy Counsellors are here for you. Reach out at janice.baillargeon@nlsd.ab.ca or madison.maceachern@nlsd.ab.ca or call 780-826-3992. Let's continue our journey of bravery and courage together!