Week of October 23: Habit 7 (Sharpen the Saw)

We are wrapping up the 7 Habits this week! Habit 7, Sharpen the Saw, is all about finding balance in life. Yes, it is important to use our minds, but just like bodies need rest after exercise, brain breaks are important too. We will read a story that goes along with our habit, then talk about ways we find balance in our own lives.

Week of October 16: Habit 6 (Synergize)

We know the importance of teamwork. I grew up hearing the phrase, "Many hands make light work." Working together not only lessens the work load, but it also gives us the ability to achieve great things together! In our counseling lessons this week, we are reading the story The Big, Bad Badgers. The 7 Oaks friends are up against the badgers in a soccer match. Will the friends understand the importance of teamwork and win the game?

After the story, we will try a team building activity together. Synergize: Together is better!

Week of October 9: Habit 5 (Seek First to Understand, Then to be Understood)

This week, we are listening to Jumper and the Lost Butterfly Net. In our story, Goob is sad after losing his butterfly net. Jumper wants to play with Goob, but Goob is too sad. Jumper doesn't listen to Goob, which upsets Goob even more. Will Jumper learn the power of listening?

Our discussion points:

What does it mean to listen with our eyes, heart, AND ears?
How can true listening help resolve conflict?

Week of October 2: Habit 4 (Think Win-Win)

We are going to read the story Sammy and the Pecan Pie. In our story, Sammy learns that everyone can win, and comparing ourselves to others only deprives us of reaching our own full potential. After our story, students will have a worksheet where they learn to compromise and work together to find solutions.

Questions to ask your student:

Do you ever compare yourself to another person?
What is one compliment you can give to someone today? (Take turns doing this- so everyone can hear something positive!)
Why is it important to know how to compromise?

Many times, especially as children get older, the competitive nature sets in. There is nothing wrong with competition, but what can easily happen is students start comparing themselves to others. Instead of recognizing their own strengths, they worry that they aren't good enough at xyz. Comparing ourselves to others doesn't really help us in any way. One friend may be really good at math, and another friend may be really good at reading. We are all different, and have different strengths worth celebrating!

Bolivar Primary School

1st Grade Counseling

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