For many students and staff in K-12 settings, the holiday season is one that, although stressful, can be joyous and a time to look forward to. However, for many of us working in schools, the holiday season can bring extraordinary hardship to families, students and even us, personally. PBS.org has a great article with tips on how school staff, particularly student services staff (counselors, psychologists, social works, etc.) can help buffer this time of year for families:
In addition, this is a great time of year to, as student services staff, check in with yourself and ensure that you're taking care of your own personal needs. Haven't scheduled a doctor/dentist appointment in a while? Do it NOW! Need to get to the gym? GO! Even scheduling something as simple as time with girlfriends can help rejuvenate one's spirit during this time of year.
One of the most important things we can do, as professionals, is acknowledge that there isn't one right way to celebrate this time of year - but, we can make our students' lives better by being present at work (both physically and mentally,) and providing a safe space for them.
Wishing everyone a happy, healthy holiday season!
- Identify community resources: Locate resources within the community to support students and families, i.e. shelters, food depositories, safe havens, affordable childcare and counseling
- Post and send home memos with lists of resources: This can be a helpful way to share resources for students or families who might be too ashamed to ask for help.
- Giveaways: Host fundraisers for food donations, coats, blankets or gifts that can be provided to students and families
- Ask teachers to refrain from giving assignments about winter break: We cannot assume that all students will have had a pleasant experience over the break; such assignments may make students upset or embarrassed in front of their peers.
- Facilitate small group counseling: This can be helpful for students struggling with grief, loss, divorce or other identified needs.
In addition, this is a great time of year to, as student services staff, check in with yourself and ensure that you're taking care of your own personal needs. Haven't scheduled a doctor/dentist appointment in a while? Do it NOW! Need to get to the gym? GO! Even scheduling something as simple as time with girlfriends can help rejuvenate one's spirit during this time of year.
One of the most important things we can do, as professionals, is acknowledge that there isn't one right way to celebrate this time of year - but, we can make our students' lives better by being present at work (both physically and mentally,) and providing a safe space for them.
Wishing everyone a happy, healthy holiday season!