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Emotional intelligence plays a critical role in helping students navigate challenges both inside and outside the classroom. By intentionally fostering emotional intelligence, educators can create learning environments where students feel supported, connected, and prepared for future success.

What is Emotional Intelligence?

Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand, manage, and appropriately express emotions while also being aware of and responsive to the emotions of others.

Students with strong emotional intelligence are often better equipped to:

• Handle stress and frustration
• Communicate effectively
• Resolve conflicts peacefully
• Build positive relationships
• Demonstrate empathy and respect
• Make thoughtful decisions

Practical Strategies for Educators

When students struggle to identify or regulate their emotions, challenges can emerge in the form of classroom disruptions, peer conflicts, disengagement, or behavioral concerns. Educators can help students build their emotional intelligence and learn practical skills to regulate their emotions.

1. Model emotional intelligence.

Students learn by observing the adults around them. Educators can model emotional intelligence by:

• Remaining calm during difficult situations
• Using respectful communication
• Acknowledging emotions openly and appropriately
• Demonstrating healthy problem-solving strategies

Example: “I’m feeling frustrated right now, so I’m going to take a moment to think before responding.”

2. Build emotional vocabulary.

Many students struggle to express how they are feeling because they lack the language to do so. Expanding students’ emotional vocabulary can help them communicate more effectively.

Consider incorporating:

• Daily emotion check-ins
• Mood meters or feeling scales
• Journaling activities
• Classroom discussions about emotions in stories, current events, or real-life situations

Example: “Can you tell me if you’re feeling disappointed, embarrassed, frustrated, or hurt?”

3. Create opportunities for reflection.

Reflection helps students develop self-awareness, a key component of emotional intelligence.

Try asking questions such as:

• How did I respond to this situation?
• What emotion was I feeling?
• What went well?
• What would I do differently next time?

Example: “How did your mood affect the way you interacted with others today?”

4. Teach conflict resolution skills.

Conflict is an inevitable part of being in a school setting. Instead of simply responding to conflicts when they occur, schools can proactively teach students healthy ways to address disagreements.

Key skills include:

• Active listening
• Perspective-taking
• Using “I” statements
• Identifying solutions that work for everyone involved
• Managing emotional reactions during disagreements

Example: “When you disagree with a classmate, try saying, ‘I understand your point, but here’s how I see it.’ instead of getting upset.”

5. Foster a safe and supportive learning environment.

Students are more likely to develop emotional intelligence when they feel valued, respected, and safe.

Educators can support this by:

• Establishing consistent expectations
• Celebrating student strengths
• Encouraging respectful dialogue
• Providing opportunities for student voice and choice
• Building strong relationships with students

Example: “Let’s make sure everyone’s ideas are heard today, even if we have different opinions.”

By intentionally teaching emotional awareness, empathy, communication, and self-regulation, educators can help students build skills that will benefit them far beyond the classroom. Investing in emotional intelligence today helps prepare students for success in their school, workplace, and overall life.

Additional Resources

https://www.appliedcoaching.org/post/the-mood-meter-for-self-awareness

https://www.classroomchampions.org/blog/emotional-intelligence-questions

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When students regularly practice acts of kindness, they develop empathy and learn how their actions can positively impact others. By incorporating kindness challenges at school and at home, educators and families can work together to encourage a culture of respect, compassion, and connection.

Give Three Genuine Compliments
Challenge students to give three sincere compliments to different people throughout the day.

Write a Thank-You Note
Encourage students to write a short note expressing gratitude to a teacher, family member, friend, or community helper.

The Secret Kindness Challenge
Complete a kind act for someone without revealing who did it.

Invite Someone New
Encourage students to include someone new in a conversation, game, or group activity.

Kindness Sticky Notes
Leave positive messages on desks, lockers, mirrors, or lunch boxes for others to discover.

The Listening Challenge
Focus on listening without interrupting when someone is speaking.

Share Your Appreciation
Tell a family member or classmate one thing you appreciate about them.

Help Without Being Asked
Find an opportunity to help with a task at home or in the classroom without being prompted.

Positive Social Media Day
Post or share something encouraging, uplifting, or supportive online.

Acts of Service Challenge
Complete a small act of service, such as helping organize materials, cleaning up a shared space, or assisting a neighbor.

Community Kindness Challenge
Collect items for a donation drive or create cards for healthcare workers, first responders, or senior citizens.

Encouragement Challenge
Offer words of encouragement to someone who may be struggling with a task or challenge.

Share a Smile
Make an effort to smile and greet people throughout the day.

Reflect on Kindness
At the end of the day, write down one act of kindness you performed and one act of kindness you received.

Kindness does not require grand gestures to make a meaningful difference. Small, intentional acts can strengthen relationships, improve school climate, and help students build empathy and social awareness. Over time, these simple actions can contribute to a more supportive, connected, and caring community.

Additional Resources

https://www.randomactsofkindness.org/

https://www.teachyourmonster.org/monster-news/fostering-kindness-in-the-classroom-and-beyond/

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While many adults assume relationship abuse is an issue that only affects older teens or adults, dating violence can occur in middle school and high school relationships and often goes unnoticed. Educators are uniquely positioned to recognize warning signs, provide support, and help create a school culture that promotes respect, safety, and healthy relationships.

What is Teen Dating Violence?

Teen dating violence is a pattern of behaviors used by one person to gain power and control over another in a dating relationship.

Abuse can take many forms, including:

• Physical abuse such as hitting, pushing, or restraining
• Emotional abuse including insults, humiliation, intimidation, or manipulation
• Verbal abuse such as threats or constant criticism
• Digital abuse through excessive monitoring, harassment, or controlling behavior via text messages, social media, or apps
• Sexual abuse involving pressure, coercion, or unwanted sexual contact

Warning Signs

While no single behavior confirms that a student is experiencing dating violence, educators may observe patterns such as:

• Sudden changes in behavior
• Increased absences
• Isolation from friends
• Excessive communication from a partner
• Unexplained injuries or excuses
• Emotional distress

How Educators Can Help

Many students experiencing relationship abuse do not immediately seek help. Educators can make a difference by creating a safe environment where students feel supported.

1. Listen without judgment.

If a student chooses to share concerns, focus on listening rather than immediately offering solutions. Avoid blaming questions and instead communicate empathy and concern.

Consider statements such as:

• “Thank you for sharing this with me.”
• “You do not deserve to be treated that way.”
• “I’m glad you told someone.”
• “Let’s talk about resources that can help.”

2. Know your school’s procedures.

Educators need to be familiar with district policies, reporting procedures, and available support services. School counselors, social workers, psychologists, and administrators can help coordinate appropriate interventions and resources.

3. Promote healthy relationship skills.

Teaching relationship skills doesn’t have to be limited to health classes. Discussions about communication, respect, boundaries, consent, empathy, and conflict resolution can be incorporated into many educational settings.

4. Model respectful relationships.

Students learn from what they observe. Positive interactions among staff members help reinforce healthy communication and problem-solving skills.

By fostering open communication, promoting healthy relationship skills, and connecting students with support, schools can play a critical role in helping young people build safer, more respectful relationships.

Additional Resources

https://www.loveisrespect.org

https://www.breakthecycle.org/

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Sleep is essential for children’s physical health, emotional wellbeing, and academic success. However, many students do not get the amount of sleep they need. Because students spend so much of their day at school, educators are often among the first to notice when sleep challenges begin to affect behavior, performance, and wellbeing. By recognizing the signs and providing supportive strategies, schools can play an important role in helping students succeed.

Signs of Sleep Struggles

Sleep challenges do not always look like obvious tiredness. In fact, many students display symptoms that can easily be mistaken for lack of motivation, defiance, or inattention. While any of these signs can have multiple causes, a pattern of several occurring together may warrant closer attention.

Academic Signs

• Difficulty concentrating
• Frequent careless mistakes
• Trouble following directions
• Forgetfulness
• Declining grades
• Reduced participation in class

Behavioral Signs

• Increased irritability
• Impulsive decision-making
• Hyperactivity or restlessness
• Difficulty staying on task
• More frequent classroom disruptions

Emotional Signs

• Heightened anxiety
• Mood swings
• Low frustration tolerance
• Increased emotional outbursts
• Social withdrawal

Physical Signs

• Frequent yawning
• Falling asleep in class
• Complaints of headaches
• Low energy levels
• Frequent visits to the nurse without an obvious medical cause

Common Causes of Sleep Challenges

Some common causes include:

• Excessive evening screen time
• Stress or anxiety
• Family disruptions or instability
• Overloaded schedules and extracurricular commitments
• Irregular sleep routines
• Medical conditions such as sleep disorders
• Mental health concerns
• Excessive caffeine consumption

Rather than making assumptions, educators should focus on observations and work collaboratively with families and support staff when concerns arise.

Ways Educators Can Help

While educators cannot control what happens outside of school, they can create supportive environments that help students manage the effects of sleep challenges and encourage healthy habits.

1. Observe and Document Patterns

Pay attention to when concerns occur. Is a student regularly tired during first period? Do emotional or behavioral difficulties increase on certain days?

Documenting observations can help identify patterns and provide useful information when discussing concerns with families or support teams.

2. Approach Students with Empathy

A sleepy student may appear disengaged, unmotivated, or disruptive. Instead of assuming intentional behavior, consider whether fatigue may be contributing.

Simple questions such as, “You seem tired today. How are you doing?” can open supportive conversations without making students feel judged.

3. Teach Healthy Habits

When appropriate, educators can incorporate age-appropriate discussions about wellness topics, such as healthy sleep routines, managing screen time, and stress management.

These conversations help students understand the connection between healthy habits and overall wellbeing.

4. Communicate with Families

If sleep-related concerns appear persistent, partnering with families may be helpful. Share specific observations rather than assumptions. Focus on collaboration and support during these conversations.

For example: “I’ve noticed that Jordan has seemed unusually tired in class several days this week and has had difficulty concentrating. I wanted to check in to see if you’ve noticed anything similar at home.

Beyond the Classroom

Sleep challenges can affect much more than academic performance. Students who are consistently sleep-deprived may struggle with emotional regulation, peer relationships, decision-making, and stress management. Because these factors are closely connected to school climate, safety, and student wellbeing, addressing sleep as part of a broader wellness approach can have lasting benefits.

By recognizing warning signs early and responding with empathy, educators can help ensure that students receive the support they need to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Additional Resources

https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-schools/sleep/index.html

https://www.k12dive.com/news/lessons-sleep-students-healthy-habits/731436

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When students miss school frequently, the impacts can extend beyond academics. Chronic absenteeism often signals underlying challenges. Addressing attendance concerns with compassion rather than punishment helps schools build trust, strengthen relationships, and better support students and families.

Root Causes

Chronic absenteeism is typically defined as missing 10% or more of the school year for any reason. While attendance data can identify students who need support, it rarely explains why they are missing school.

Students may be absent due to:

• Anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns
• Chronic illness or medical appointments
• Family caregiving responsibilities
• Transportation challenges
• Bullying or peer conflicts
• Housing insecurity or family instability
• Lack of connection to adults or peers at school

Steps Educators Can Take

1. Build relationships first.

Strong relationships are one of the most effective tools for improving attendance. Students are more likely to come to school when they feel seen, valued, and connected. The goal is to help students feel that their presence matters.

Simple relationship-building strategies include:

• Greeting students by name each day
• Checking in after absences without judgment
• Identifying a trusted adult mentor in the school
• Celebrating attendance improvements, even small ones
• Providing opportunities for students to participate in clubs, activities, or leadership roles

2. Partner with families.

Families are essential partners in addressing attendance concerns. Conversations about absences should focus on collaboration rather than blame.

When reaching out to families:

• Begin with concern for the student’s well-being.
• Ask open-ended questions about attendance barriers.
• Listen actively and avoid assumptions.
• Connect families with available school and community resources.
• Develop realistic attendance goals together.

3. Create a school environment where students want to be.

Improving attendance is not only about reducing barriers. It is also about creating an environment where students feel safe, engaged, and supported. When students experience a strong sense of belonging, attendance could improve naturally.

Schools can foster belonging by:

• Promoting inclusive classroom practices
• Recognizing student strengths and achievements
• Providing social-emotional learning opportunities
• Offering meaningful extracurricular activities
• Encouraging positive peer relationships
• Ensuring students have access to supportive adults

4. Use data with empathy.

Attendance data can help schools identify patterns and intervene early. Looking for trends, such as repeated absences on certain days or during particular periods, can help educators better understand student needs.

Data should serve as a starting point for supportive conversations, not just as a tool for punishment. Combining attendance information with relationship-building efforts creates a more comprehensive and effective approach.

Addressing chronic absenteeism requires a balance of accountability, support, and compassion. By seeking to understand the reasons behind absences, building meaningful relationships, and partnering with families, educators can help students reconnect with school and experience greater success both academically and emotionally.

Additional Resources

https://www.attendanceworks.org

https://www.aft.org/childrens-health-safety-and-well-being/childrens-access-care/chronic-absenteeism

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Social connection is a fundamental part of student wellbeing. While many students experience periods of solitude or prefer smaller social circles, ongoing social isolation can negatively affect emotional health, academic engagement, and a student’s sense of belonging at school. Educators and school staff are uniquely positioned to notice when a student is becoming disconnected and to help create opportunities for meaningful connection.

Contributing Factors

Social isolation occurs when a student has limited social connections or feels disconnected from peers, trusted adults, or their school community. Isolation may be temporary and situational, or it may develop over time due to factors such as:

• Difficulty making or maintaining friendships
• Bullying, exclusion, or peer conflict
• Frequent school moves or transitions
• Mental health challenges
• Cultural or language differences
• Chronic absenteeism
• Family or personal circumstances that limit social engagement

Signs of Social Isolation

School staff should look for patterns rather than isolated incidents. Recognizing these indicators early allows staff to provide support before isolation begins affecting a student’s overall wellbeing. Possible signs include:

• Spending significant time alone during breaks, lunch, or group activities
• Reluctance to participate in collaborative projects
• Difficulty forming or maintaining friendships
• Withdrawal from clubs, extracurricular activities, or previously enjoyed interests
• Frequent absenteeism or tardiness
• Increased sadness, irritability, anxiety, or low motivation
• Limited interaction with peers or adults
• Expressions of feeling left out, unwanted, or disconnected

Prevention and Intervention Methods

1. Build positive relationships.

Simple interactions can have a significant impact. Greeting students by name, checking in regularly, and showing genuine interest in their experiences helps strengthen trust and connection.

2. Encourage inclusive practices.

Create opportunities for students to interact with a variety of peers. Thoughtful grouping, cooperative learning activities, peer mentorship programs, and inclusive extracurricular opportunities can help students expand their social networks.

3. Monitor peer dynamics.

Pay attention to students who are consistently left out during activities or social situations. Address exclusionary behavior promptly and reinforce expectations for kindness and respect.

4. Celebrate student strengths.

Students are more likely to feel connected when their contributions are recognized. Highlight individual talents, interests, and achievements in ways that encourage participation and confidence.

5. Provide multiple pathways for connection.

Not every student connects in the same way. Offer a variety of activities, clubs, leadership opportunities, and interest-based groups so students can find environments where they feel comfortable and valued.

Supporting Students Who May Be Isolated

When concerns arise, approach students with empathy and curiosity rather than assumptions.

• Check in privately and respectfully.
• Ask open-ended questions about their school experience.
• Listen without judgment.
• Help identify activities, groups, or opportunities that align with their interests.
• Connect them with appropriate support services when needed.
• Collaborate with families and other support staff to better understand the student’s needs.

Small supportive actions often make a lasting difference. A welcoming conversation, invitation to participate, or regular check-in may be the first step toward a stronger sense of belonging.

Additional Resources

https://www.stopbullying.gov

https://www.search-institute.org

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Grief is a natural response to loss, but for children and adolescents, it can be especially difficult to understand and manage. Students may experience grief following the death of a family member, friend, classmate, or pet. By recognizing signs of grief and responding with empathy, schools can help students feel supported during challenging times.

Grief looks different for every student. Some students may openly express sadness, while others may appear angry, withdrawn, distracted, or unaffected. Reactions can vary based on age, developmental level, cultural background, previous experiences with loss, and available support systems.

It is important to remember that grief is not a problem to fix. Instead, it is an experience to support as students learn to cope with and adjust to loss.

Common Signs of Grief

While grief affects everyone differently, some common signs may include:

• Difficulty concentrating or completing assignments
• Changes in behavior or mood
• Increased irritability, frustration, or emotional outbursts
• Withdrawal from friends, activities, or classroom participation
• Increased anxiety or worries about safety and loved ones
• Fatigue or changes in energy levels
• Frequent absences or visits to the nurse’s office
• Expressions of sadness, guilt, confusion, or loneliness

Creating a Supportive School Environment

A caring and predictable school environment can provide an important source of stability for students experiencing grief. Educators can do several things to help create this environment.

Acknowledge the loss.

Students often benefit when trusted adults acknowledge what has happened rather than avoid the topic entirely. Simple statements such as, “I’m sorry for your loss,” or “I’m here if you need support,” can communicate care without putting pressure on the student to talk.

Maintain routines while providing flexibility.

Consistent routines help create a sense of security during times of uncertainty. At the same time, grieving students may need flexibility with assignments, participation expectations, or deadlines as they process their emotions.

Listen more than you speak.

Students may want to share memories, feelings, or concerns. Give them opportunities to talk while avoiding assumptions about how they should feel or how long their grief should last.

Provide opportunities for connection.

Grief can feel isolating. Encourage healthy peer relationships and ensure students remain connected to supportive adults and activities within the school community.

Respect individual and cultural differences.

Families and cultures may have different beliefs, traditions, and ways of expressing grief. Approach conversations with sensitivity and respect for each student’s unique experience.

Day-to-Day Support

All school staff can play a role in supporting grieving students. Educators can:

• Check in privately and periodically.
• Offer reassurance and emotional support.
• Be patient with changes in behavior or performance.
• Help students identify trusted adults they can turn to when needed.
• Communicate appropriately with families and support staff.
• Refer students to school counselors or mental health professionals when additional support is needed.

Students may not remember every lesson taught during a difficult season of life, but they often remember the adults who showed them kindness and understanding. When educators and school staff create safe, supportive environments, students are better equipped to navigate grief while maintaining a sense of connection and belonging.

Additional Resources

https://www.dougy.org

https://www.schoolcrisiscenter.org

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Gratitude is often thought of as simply saying “thank you,” but its impact can extend far beyond good manners. For students, cultivating gratitude can be a valuable tool for managing stress, building resilience, and fostering a greater sense of connection to their learning community.

For students navigating academic pressures, personal responsibilities, and life transitions, gratitude can serve as a protective factor that supports overall wellbeing.

Benefits of Gratitude

Practicing gratitude can positively influence several aspects of the student experience, including:

• Increased optimism and positive emotions
• Improved relationships with peers, faculty, and staff
• Greater resilience during stressful situations
• Enhanced sense of belonging and connection
• Reduced focus on negative experiences or setbacks
• Improved awareness of available support systems

While gratitude is not a solution to every challenge, it can help students identify strengths, recognize support networks, and develop coping strategies during difficult times.

Creating Opportunities for Gratitude

Educators can help foster gratitude throughout the school environment. Small, intentional practices can encourage students to reflect on positive experiences and connections.

Examples include:

• Encouraging reflection after successful projects or milestones
• Celebrating personal and academic achievements
• Providing opportunities for peer recognition
• Acknowledging student contributions and efforts
• Incorporating moments of reflection into meetings, classes, or programs

Students are more likely to engage and persist when they feel connected to their school and the people around them. Gratitude can strengthen these connections by helping students recognize the support they receive from classmates, mentors, family members, and campus resources.

When gratitude becomes part of a school’s culture, it can contribute to a more positive and supportive community for everyone.

Additional Resources

https://www.constantloveandlearning.com/blog/powerful-year-round-gratitude-tools-to-benefit-educators-and-children

https://www.shraman.org/gratitude

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Food insecurity is a challenge that affects learners of all ages and backgrounds. Concerns about where their next meal will come from can create barriers to academic success, engagement, and overall well-being. Schools play an important role in helping create environments where students can access the resources they need to thrive.

Potential Indicators

Although every student’s experience is different, some common indicators may include:

• Frequent comments about being hungry or skipping meals
• Difficulty concentrating during class activities
• Fatigue, irritability, or low energy
• Increased absences or tardiness
• Concerns about financial hardship
• Hesitation to participate in activities involving food costs

Creating a Supportive Learning Environment

Students are more likely to seek assistance when they feel respected and supported. Educators can help by:

• Using inclusive language that acknowledges diverse life circumstances
• Avoiding assumptions about students’ access to food, transportation, or financial resources
• Sharing available campus or community resources regularly with all students
• Normalizing conversations about seeking support services
• Maintaining confidentiality when discussing personal circumstances

Connecting Students with Resources

One of the most impactful ways to support students is by becoming familiar with available resources. These may include:

• Campus food pantries
• Emergency assistance programs
• Meal voucher initiatives
• Community food banks
• Supplemental nutrition programs
• Student support and case management services
• Local nonprofit organizations

Supporting students experiencing food insecurity begins with empathy. Small actions, such as listening without judgment, providing flexible support when appropriate, and sharing resources, can make a meaningful difference. Students who feel seen and supported are more likely to remain engaged and connected to their educational journey.

By fostering awareness and building resource-rich learning environments, educators can help remove barriers that may otherwise prevent students from achieving their goals.

Additional Resources

https://www.feedingamerica.org

https://www.nokidhungry.org

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Stress is a normal part of life, but for many students, academic demands, social pressures, extracurricular commitments, family responsibilities, and uncertainty about the future can feel overwhelming. Educators can help students develop healthy ways to manage stress.

Student Indicators

When stress becomes chronic or excessive, it can affect students’ ability to learn, focus, solve problems, and build positive relationships. Students experiencing high stress may demonstrate behaviors such as:

• Difficulty concentrating
• Increased irritability or emotional outbursts
• Changes in attendance patterns
• Declining academic performance
• Withdrawal from peers or activities
• Physical complaints such as headaches or stomachaches

Practical Strategies

1. Create predictable and supportive environments.

Students often feel less anxious when they know what to expect. Consistent routines and clear communication help reduce uncertainty.

Examples:

• Post schedules and expectations where students can easily access them.
• Provide advance notice for changes whenever possible.
• Break larger assignments or projects into smaller, manageable steps.
• Offer reminders and checkpoints to help students stay organized.

2. Teach and model healthy coping skills.

Students learn by watching the adults around them. Demonstrating healthy stress management shows students practical ways to respond to challenges.

Tips:

• Talk about strategies you use to stay organized and manage stress.
• Encourage students to identify coping techniques that work for them.
• Normalize conversations about emotions and mental wellness.
• Reinforce that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

3. Incorporate brief mindfulness moments.

Mindfulness activities can help students reset, improve focus, and regulate emotions throughout the day.

Ideas include:

• One-minute breathing exercises
• Guided visualization activities
• Mindful stretching breaks
• Gratitude reflections
• Quiet moments before assessments or transitions

4. Encourage movement and brain breaks.

Physical activity can help reduce tension and improve mood. Even short periods of movement can increase engagement and concentration.

Examples:

• Stretching between lessons or meetings
• Walking discussions
• Classroom movement activities
• Brain breaks during longer instructional periods
• Opportunities for students to stand and move when appropriate

5. Foster positive relationships.

Students are more likely to share concerns when they feel connected to trusted adults.

Ways to build connections:

• Greet students by name.
• Check in regularly with students who seem overwhelmed.
• Celebrate effort and growth, not just achievement.
• Provide opportunities for students to share their thoughts and experiences.
• Listen without immediately trying to solve every problem.

6. Help students develop organizational skills.

Many students feel stressed because they struggle with time management and organization. Small organizational habits can prevent larger stressors from accumulating.

Support students by:

• Teaching planning and prioritization strategies.
• Using calendars, checklists, and visual reminders.
• Encouraging students to estimate how long tasks will take.
• Helping students create manageable goals.

7. Promote balance.

Students may feel pressure to excel in every area of their lives. School staff can reinforce the importance of balance and self-care.

Encourage students to:

• Get adequate sleep.
• Take breaks when needed.
• Engage in hobbies and interests.
• Spend time with supportive friends and family.
• Maintain realistic expectations for themselves.

Stress is an inevitable part of life, but students do not have to navigate it alone. By creating welcoming environments, teaching practical skills, and fostering meaningful connections, school staff can play a critical role in helping students manage stress and thrive both academically and personally.

Additional Resources

https://keltymentalhealth.ca/teaching-children-about-stress

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/emotional-wellness/Building-Resilience/Pages/For-Teens-Creating-Your-Personal-Stress-Management-Plan.aspx

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