Hello Families!
Well, I'm not sure what happened to the last couple of months, but they flew by! I apologize for not posting, but hopefully your third grader is filling you in with what we have been working on! In January and February, Mrs. Dusel and I targeted "study skills" or "student skills." These skills include: doing your homework, staying organized, participating in class, engaging in partner/group work, putting forth your best effort, and setting goals. We reminded students that while focusing on all of these skills, we always try to remember to identify what Zone we are in and try to defeat the Unthinkables! Here are some of the anchor charts we discussed:
In March we started reviewing BIG problem/little problem. Mrs. Hintz also targeted this in class! We spent some time reading social scenarios in lunch group, identifying what size the problem is and trying to figure out some expected versus unexpected reactions students may have. We also always discuss what others may be thinking or feeling during these situations (perspective taking!). By talking about social situations, this helps build student's awareness of all the social problem solving they really have to do throughout their days. Mrs. Dusel and I also share our own personal stories about problems we encounter throughout our days. The students really enjoy hearing that they are NOT alone in running into problems and that even teachers can get in the red, yellow or blue zones. We really want them to know that all zone colors are okay, but that we have to work to figure out how to get back to green zone. Dinner time is a great time to discuss some of your own social situations you have encountered throughout your day.
Overall, the kids have been working hard and we are so proud of all their growth!
