Tuesday, November 1, 2011

November Calendars

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November Principal Message

Healthy Self-Esteem

Few things are as rewarding as seeing your child glow from the inside out. And it happens when children have a high self esteem: when they know themselves to be unconditionally accepted, when they feel both loved and lovable, and when they feel a sense of belonging and self worth.

Kids with healthy self-esteem tend to enjoy interacting with others, learn more, and smile more. They're comfortable in social settings and enjoy group activities as well as independent pursuits. When challenges arise, they can work toward finding solutions and voice discontent without belittling themselves or others. Here how you can play an important role in promoting a healthy self-esteem in your child.

Watch what you say. Kids are very sensitive to parents' words. Remember to praise your child not only for a job well done, but also for effort. But be truthful. For example, if your child doesn't make a goal that they have set, avoid saying something like, "Well, next time you'll work harder and make it." Instead, try "Well, you didn't make this time, but I'm really proud of the effort you put into it." Reward effort and completion instead of outcome.

Be a positive role model. If you're excessively harsh on yourself, pessimistic, or unrealistic about your abilities and limitations, your child may eventually mirror you. Nurture your own self-esteem, and your child will have a great role model.

Identify and redirect your child's inaccurate beliefs. It's important for parents to identify kids' irrational beliefs about themselves, whether they're about perfection, attractiveness, ability, or anything else. Helping kids set more accurate standards and be more realistic in evaluating themselves will help them have a healthy self-concept. Inaccurate perceptions of self can take root and become reality to kids. For example, a child who does very well in school but struggles with math may say, "I can't do math. I'm a bad student." Not only is this a false generalization, it's also a belief that will set the child up for failure. Encourage kids to see a situation in its true light. A helpful response might be: "You are a good student. You do great in school. Math is just a subject that you need to spend more time on. We'll work on it together."

Be spontaneous and affectionate. Your love will go a long way to boost your child's self-esteem. Give hugs and tell kids you're proud of them. Pop a note in your child's lunchbox that reads, "I think you're terrific!" Give praise frequently and honestly, without overdoing it. Kids can tell whether something comes from the heart.

Give positive, accurate feedback. Comments like "You always work yourself up into such a frenzy!" will make kids feel like they have no control over their outbursts. A better statement is, "You were really mad at your brother. But I appreciate that you didn't yell at him or hit him." This acknowledges a child's feelings, rewards the choice made, and encourages the child to make the right choice again next time.

Create a safe, loving home environment. Kids who don't feel safe or are abused at home will suffer immensely from low self-esteem. A child who is exposed to parents who fight and argue repeatedly may become depressed and withdrawn. Also watch for signs of abuse by others, problems in school, trouble with peers, and other factors that may affect kids' self-esteem. Deal with these issues sensitively but swiftly. And always remember to respect your kids.

Help kids become involved in constructive experiences. Activities that encourage cooperation rather than competition are especially helpful in fostering self-esteem. For example, mentoring programs in which an older child helps a younger one learn to read can do wonders for both kids.

As always, if I can be of any assistance to help with your child’s education please give me a call or stop by my office for a visit. Together, we win!

Mr. Chadaz

Sunday, October 30, 2011

Reflections Deadline Extended

The Reflections deadline has been extended to Tuesday, November 1st.

The theme:
Diversity is....

Please fill out all necessary forms and turn in entries to the office.

THANKS!

Thursday, October 27, 2011

IHC Offers Classes for Kids

IHC is offering some great classes for kids at the Bear River Valley Hospital on November 12th and November 19th. Please click on the images below to see more information. Pre-registration is required so if you are interested, please call soon to reserve your spot.


Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Pumpkin Walk

Don't forget the Pumpkin Walk will be
Thursday, October 28th from 6-7 PM

Wear your costumes, bring your family, and come look at all the fun pumpkins the students carve/design.

Monday, October 24, 2011

REFLECTIONS DUE!!!

Just a reminder that Reflections entries are due on
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28th

Make sure to follow all rules and fill out the entry form completely and correctly and bring it with your item to the office to turn in.

"DIVERSITY MEANS....."
is the theme.

Monday, October 10, 2011

Red Ribbon Week

Mckinley is DRUG FREE and we are going to celebrate with Red Ribbon Week the week of October 24 - 28th.

Click on the image below to see the dress up days for this week.

This will be a fun week to celebrate staying healthy and staying away from substances that will harm our bodies.