Greetings, wonderful parents and students!

In February, we embarked on a heartwarming journey centered around the theme of Patience. This month, we will explore 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 are exploring the beautiful world of empathy, igniting a season of selflessness, understanding, and kindness. 

On February 26, 2025, students celebrated Pink Shirt Day! Pink Shirt Day is celebrated on the last Wednesday of February to raise awareness and promote the use of kindness rather than bullying. If you would like to know more about the story behind Pink Shirt Day, please follow this link: https://www.youtubeeducation.com/watch?v=Tb2a4nPBgUY!

Kimochis

This March, in our weekly assemblies, students will embrace Kimochis Key 4: Choose Helping Words Instead of Hurtful Words! By practicing the skill of thinking before speaking, students chose words that made their hearts feel joy instead of hurt. 

Virtue of the Month- Empathy

The virtue of March is Empathy. Empathy is a character trait much like kindness or understanding. Being empathetic means showing the ability to comprehend and share another person's feelings. Our Duclos buddies have shown immense empathy through their actions of supporting each other during difficult moments and showing forgiveness for accidents. We also had the pleasure of welcoming the Bonnyville Pontiacs to help get the message of kindness and empathy across to all our students during our Wednesday morning assembly. 

To further explore the importance of Empathy, feel free to enjoy the read-aloud story by Diane Alber titled "A Little Spot of Empathy". 

Reflecting on Last Month: Your Insights Matter!

In February, we celebrated the art of practicing patience. 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 patience in your lives.

Nurturing Empathy: Tips for Students

Students, let's embrace Empathy:

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 madison.maceachern@nlsd.ab.ca or call (780)826-3992. Let's continue our journey of compassion and kindness together.

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!