Tuesday, October 3, 2023

Seasonal SEL Lessons: Bringing Joy and Learning into School Counseling


Hey there Creative Friends!

Isn't it just the most exciting time of the year? The leaves are turning gold, there's a crisp chill in the air, and pumpkin-spiced everything is back on the menu. Yep, you guessed it - it's officially fall, y'all! 🍁🍂 And that means it's the perfect time to jump right into the exciting world of seasonal lessons!

But you might be wondering, what's the big hype? Well, grab your favorite cozy sweater and a warm drink because I'm about to share all the wonderful benefits of making seasonally-themed lessons that'll have you excited too!

🎃 Engaged and Excited Students 🎃

First and foremost, let's talk about the students! We don't have much time with them so we want our lessons to be memorable. Seasonal lessons come with a sense of energy and enthusiasm. When you walk into their classroom (or vice-versa) you can see the excitement light up in their eyes. When students are excited to see you and learn, magic happens! They become more engaged, attentive, and motivated to participate. It's like sprinkling a little pumpkin spice on your counseling lessons!

🌟 Creating Lasting Memories 🌟

One of the most beautiful things about seasonal lessons is that they create lasting memories. Students will fondly remember the fun, themed activities and discussions. I know this personally because students write about them on their end-of-year surveys and it warms my heart that they remember my lessons!

These memories become a part of their learning experience, and they'll carry these lessons with them long after the season has passed. It's about planting seeds of knowledge that will grow and flourish as they move forward in life.

🤝 Building Stronger Connections 🤝

Seasonal themes also provide us with an excellent opportunity to build stronger connections with our students. It's like a warm invitation to share stories, traditions, and personal experiences related to the season.

By opening up and sharing a bit of your own excitement for the season, you create a sense of camaraderie. It's those shared moments that help students feel more comfortable discussing their thoughts and feelings with you. And isn't that what we want? You become not just a counselor but a trusted grown-up friend.

🌈 Encouraging Creativity 🌈

Finally, let's not forget that seasonal lessons encourage creativity, both for you and your students. It's a chance to brainstorm unique ways to teach and explore counseling topics. I love designing activities, craftivities, and discussions that tie into the season. Afterall, that's why I chose the name for this blog! 

🍎 Adding a Twist to the Everyday Topic🍎

For example, imagine a Healthy Haunts Halloween 🎃 Escape Room to learn about safe or scary choices. It's an exciting way to captivate students' attention and emphasize the importance of making healthy decisions. This immersive experience doesn't just teach them about saying "no" to risky behaviors but actively engages students in critical thinking and problem-solving. By the time they've escaped these spooky situations, they've learned the importance of making healthy choices, and it's an experience they won't forget!


Or make learning about Gratitude and Acts of Kindness fun this Thanksgiving with Quirky Turkey's Grateful ESCAPE adventure! Students can join Gobble Groups and help Quirky Turkey earn pieces of his disguise so he can flee from his Thanksgiving fears. Your students will love this engaging and interactive twist incorporating a Thanksgiving theme!












Or learning how to become a Mon"STAR" student! Yes, we can even use seasonal themes to make Study Skills interesting! 


So, there you have it, my fellow creative friends! Embrace the wonders of seasonal lessons, and you'll find yourself and your students excited to explore lots of social-emotional topics!

Happy counseling, and enjoy the fall y'all! 🍂🍁



Looking for some FALL LESSONS & ACTIVITIES? Check these out by clicking HERE!





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