Sunday, July 21, 2019

Embark on a Swashbuckling Pirate Journey: A Meet the School Counselor Escape Room Introduction Lesson


Ahoy there, mateys! Avast ye, for another school year awaits! 'Tis the time to ensure ye students be knowin' who ye be, but ye won't be shoutin' it from ye ship. Nay, ye be embarkin' on a grand voyage across the seas as ye students sail from island to island, searchin' for me, the elusive school counselor. Ah, but there be a twist - I've taken their friend captive, and only by solvin' clues about the school counselor can they help their matey escape!


Arr, I spy that ye students have already formed search parties, ready to solve the puzzles at each island and rescue their friend. If they be wantin' another piece of the map, they'll need to work together, developin' their cooperation skills and learnin' the value of respectin' one another, all while discoverin' the role of the school counselor, a trusty friend who be there to help with any problem.


Chapter 1: Unveil the Secrets of the Buccaneer's Role

As ye set foot on the first island, 'tis time to unravel the secrets of the Buccaneer's Role. Through mind-bogglin' puzzles and mysterious riddles, ye search party must piece together the clues and unlock the knowledge of what the school counselor can offer. With each solved puzzle, ye gather a piece of the treasure map, inchin' closer to yer friend's rescue.


Chapter 2: Navigate the Treacherous Waters of Communication

On the second island, ye face treacherous waters and a challenge of communication. Ye must decipher the statements. Armed with the Pirate Code Cracker, ye search party must identify the hidden truths, arran'in' them in the correct order to unveil the elusive clue. The completed puzzle will summon the presence of Cap'n Counselor, awaitin' yer triumph.

Chapter 3: Craft Ye Personal Pirate's Creed

Avast, me hearties! On the third island, a challenge awaits ye in the form of a crossword puzzle, where ye must forge a path to victory. Set yer sights on discoverin' the answers to questions about who, what, when, where, and why to seek the guidance of the school counselor. Unleash the power of the Pirate Code Cracker, decipherin' the third clue and matchin' symbols to their rightful letters. Arrangin' them by color, ye shall reveal the hidden phrase: "School counselors are a treasure here for you!" Present yer triumph to Cap'n Wise, and earn another piece of the map on yer path to victory.



The Ultimate Quest: Unlock the Chest of Secrets!

Having gathered wisdom from all three chapters, yer young buccaneers embark on their final quest, unlockin' the secret to obtainin' a key. The key lies in sortin' the words ye find on the map into a cohesive sentence. As the words align, the chest of secrets be opened, revealin' a world of possibilities and symbolizin' yer triumph.


While the search parties be waitin' for their mates to finish their quests, I have a clever My School Counselor Flip Flap Book for the scallywags to complete. (Aye, 'tis true, 'tis me way of gatherin' data to ensure they know me name, me services, and how they can request me aid.) I make 'em wait until all search parties have their keys, and then I unlock the treasure box, revealin' colorin' bracelets and stickers fit for the plunder. I would've included chocolate doubloons, but alas, me school be forbiddin' any food bein' distributed.

Get Both of these FREEBIES by Clicking on the Picture!





Ah, me hearties! Gather 'round and behold the BENEFITS ye shall reap from this grand Escape adventure!

Collaboration Ahoy: As ye work together in search parties, solvin' puzzles and decipherin' clues, ye shall nurture essential teamwork skills, fosterin' camaraderie and unity amongst ye crew.

Buccaneer's Problem-Solvin': Engagin' in the mind-bogglin' challenges of this escape room shall ignite ye critical thinkin' abilities. Ye must analyze clues, make connections, and apply logical reasonin' to overcome obstacles like true buccaneers.

Mastery of Pirate Parley: Throughout this escapade, ye shall hone yer communication skills, expressin' yer thoughts with clarity and actively listenin' to yer fellow crew members. 'Tis through effective communication that ye shall sail the treacherous seas together.

Resilience in the Face of Storms: The mysteries and puzzles ye encounter in this escape room shall test yer resilience and perseverance. Ye may face setbacks and challenges, but ye must persist, adapt, and find alternative solutions like true swashbucklers.

Empowerment Through Triumph: Successfully completin' the challenges and savin' yer matey shall boost ye self-confidence. Ye shall discover ye own strengths, talents, and problem-solvin' abilities, empowerin' ye to face future challenges with optimism.

Bondin' in the Pirate Realm: This collaborative quest shall foster bondin' and social interaction among ye crew. Ye shall appreciate diverse perspectives, work as a team, and forge friendships stronger than any anchor.

Uncoverin' Hidden Talents: The escape room be a platform for ye to showcase ye unique talents and explore ye interests. Whether ye be a puzzle-solvin' prodigy, a creative thinker, or a natural leader, this adventure be yer chance to shine like a true pirate.

Sailin' Beyond the Room: The skills ye acquire in this escape room, such as critical thinkin', problem-solvin', communication, and collaboration, shall not be confined to this mystical realm. They be valuable skills ye can apply to ye academic pursuits, future careers, and personal growth.

Enchantin' Memories and Jolly Learnin': This immersive escapade shall create lastin' memories, associatin' learnin' with excitement, adventure, and joy. Ye motivation and enthusiasm for future academic endeavors shall be as fierce as a mighty sea tempest.

So gather ye crew, me hearties, and set sail on this fantastical voyage. The Meet the School Counselor on Counselor Coast Escape Room shall not only be an unforgettable adventure but a gateway to growin' as pirates of knowledge and resilience.

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Monday, July 1, 2019

Enhance School Counseling Notes: Simplify Your Documentation Process!


Conveniently Capture Counseling

Hey there! I've got something really cool to share with you, especially if you're a busy school counselor like me. You know how important it is to keep up with student meetings and have a system in place to organize all that information, right? Well, that's exactly why I created a School Counseling Notes Google Form. I needed a quick and efficient way to document student meetings and stay organized, as well as, being able to quickly search for previous meetings and utilize the data to refine my school counseling program.


Seamless Searchability

Imagine this: you're in the midst of a busy day, meeting with students, addressing their needs, and providing support. With the School Counseling Notes Google Form, you can effortlessly record each meeting in less than a minute. No more struggling with paper calendars or trying to remember all the details from each session. Everything is neatly organized in one place, and you can easily search for previous meetings whenever you need to refer back to them.

Informative Insights

But here's where it gets even better. The form automatically compiles all the data you collect into graphs and charts. That means you can analyze and utilize the information to refine your school counseling program. You'll be able to identify patterns, spot areas of improvement, and make data-informed decisions that truly benefit your students.


Time-Saving Tool

I know as school counselors, our time, that we never seem to have enough of, is precious. That's why this School Counselor Notes Form is designed to be user-friendly and time-efficient. It's easy to navigate, and you can quickly fill out the form for each student without any unnecessary complexity. Trust me, it revolutionized the way I document student meetings!

Anytime, Anywhere Access

And the best part? It can be accessed anytime, anywhere. Just bookmark it for quick and easy access on your computer or mobile device. Whether in your office, attending meetings, or on the go, all the student meeting notes are right at your fingertips!

Revolutionary Resource

I created the School Counseling Notes Google Form because I wanted a solution that would save me time, keep me organized, and help me make data-driven improvements to my school counseling program. And now, I'm excited to share it with you! Give it a try, and I guarantee you'll see the difference it makes in your daily counseling practice. Say goodbye to the headaches of paper calendars and hello to a streamlined and efficient way to document student meetings. You won't regret it!

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Tuesday, June 25, 2019

Set Sail on a Swashbuckling Friendship Skills Adventure: A Pirate Pals Escape Room Lesson


Hello, my friends! Friendship is a priceless treasure that surpasses any riches found on the vast ocean. Today, I'll be taking you on an exciting adventure as we explore the secrets of friendship through a Pirate Pals Escape Room Lesson. So gather 'round and pay attention as I guide you on this thrilling journey, helping you develop your social skills and creating a friendly and collaborative classroom environment. 

Ah, but how fun would this blog be if I presented it in modern day English? I love any opportunity to dress-up and act like a character, I totally get into it! Imagine your students eyes filled with delight when they see you walk in for a lesson dressed as a pirate! I even bring a parrot toy, that repeats back anything you say, to complete my costume! So with no further ado, I must present this blog post to me hearty crew!

Ahoy, me mateys! Friendship be a treasure worth more than all the gold in the seven seas! Today, I'll be takin' ye on a grand adventure teachin' ye the secrets of friendship through the Pirate Pals Escape Room Lesson. So gather round and listen closely as I guide ye on this swashbucklin' journey, helpin' ye develop them there social skills and creatin' a shipshape classroom environment.

Settin' the Stage

Picture this, me hearties: ye step into the classroom, and a world of friendship awaits. I be talkin' 'bout the importance of makin' and keepin' friends. Now, let's introduce our trusty Pirate Pal, who'll be our guide on this adventure. He likes to rhyme to ignite ye enthusiasm and set the course for our escapades.


Understandin' the Treasure Map

Now ye'll see a treasure map. We'll be followin' it to unlock the secrets of friendship. As a crew, ye'll solve puzzles and earn pieces of pirate gold. These puzzles be representin' different aspects of friendship, and it's up to ye to work together like a true band of buccaneers


Puzzle 1 - A Pirate's Got Feelings

Arr, me hearties, Puzzle 1 awaits ye! We'll be divin' into the murky waters of emotions. Ye'll have puzzles with numbers and letters. Put 'em together to form a sentence and reveal a key to friendship. Match the right letters to the numbers in the sentence, and ye'll understand the importance of recognizin' and addressin' feelings in friendships.


Puzzle 2 - Pirates Have a Golden Rule

Now, me mateys, let's tackle Puzzle 2. This one be all 'bout the Golden Rule in friendship. Ye'll be sortin' cards into "Friendly" or "Unfriendly" behaviors. Then, arrange the Friendly Behavior Cards in order by their numbers. As ye do this, have a hearty discussion 'bout how treatin' others with respect and kindness shapes a strong and healthy friendship.


Puzzle 3 - Pirates Are Problem-Solvers

Hoist the sails, me hearties! It be time for Puzzle 3. This one be all 'bout solvin' problems in friendships. Grab yer Pirate Code Cracker and fill in the blanks usin' the Pirate Code. Them circled letters be the final clues ye need for our escape room adventure. Together, we'll hone yer critical thinkin' skills and learn the value of teamwork and compromise in resolvin' conflicts.


Final Puzzle - Findin' the Key

Arr, the final puzzle be upon us, me hearties! Take a gander. Ye must sort the coins to find the key to unlock the treasure chest. Fill in the blanks usin' what ye've learned from all the puzzles. This be where all the pieces come together – understandin' feelings, friendly behaviors, and problem-solvin'. Once ye have a completed puzzle, ye'll receive yer very own key to the treasure chest.


Openin' the Treasure Chest and a Bit o' Discussion

Avast! We've reached the final stretch, me mateys. When all crews have their keys, gather 'round for the grand reveal. Open the treasure chest, and behold the booty of friendship bracelets, stickers, or even golden coins as rewards for yer efforts. Now, let's engage in a lively discussion, reflectin' on the lessons learned. Share yer thoughts on why understandin' a friend's feelings, handlin' conflicts, and followin' the Golden Rule be the compasses that guide us on our friendship voyage. This discussion will anchor the lessons learned deep in yer hearts and strengthen the bonds of friendship among ye all.


The Greatest Treasure

Aye, me hearties! Ye have now mastered the art of friendship. Through the excitement, teamwork, and puzzles aplenty, ye have uncovered the secrets of understandin' emotions, treatin' others with kindness, and solvin' problems. So set sail on the journey of friendship, and remember to always be true-hearted and follow the Golden Rule. May the winds of friendship fill yer sails as ye navigate the seas of life, findin' treasure in every friend ye make!



Benefits for Children:
  • Arr, the first treasure ye shall uncover be the understanding of the importance of friendly behaviors. Through puzzlin' challenges and activities, ye young mateys will grasp the power of kindness, empathy, and respect in forgin' strong and hearty friendships.
  • But that's not all! Ye shall also be sailin' towards the island of emotional intelligence. By delvin' into the depths of emotions and sharin' yer feelings with yer fellow crew members, ye'll become savvier in understandin' yerselves and others, makin' it easier to navigate the choppy waters of social interactions.
  • And what's a pirate's life without a good bit of problem-solvin'? Fear not, me hearties, for this lesson be teachin' ye the ways of collaboration, effective communication, and critical thinkin'. Ye'll learn to work as a team, shoutin' "Aye, aye!" and findin' solutions like true mates. These skills be handy not only on the high seas but in all areas of yer lives.
  • Now, me buckos, imagine the warmth ye'll feel when ye find yerselves part of a tight-knit crew. The sense of belongin' that this lesson fosters be like findin' a true home among yer shipmates. Together, ye'll build a supportive and inclusive environment where every voice be valued, just like the crew on a sturdy ship.
  • Lastly, our journey be teachin' ye to take charge of yer actions. Ye shall learn the importance of responsibility and accountability. Every choice ye make has consequences, and this lesson be showin' ye how those choices affect yer friendships. Ye'll come to treasure the art of self-reflection and takin' ownership of yer interactions with others.

Benefits for Counselors & Teachers:

Now, me hearty teachers, prepare to hoist the anchor and reap the rewards of this escapade!
  • This Escape Room lesson be a gateway to engagin' and interactive learnin'. Ye can harness the excitement and novelty of the escape room concept to capture the attention of yer little pirates. This hands-on approach be gettin' 'em fully immersed in the lesson, makin' 'em eager to participate and sail full speed ahead.
  • Worry not, me friends, for this voyage aligns with multiple educational standards. We be tickin' the boxes of the ACCA Mindset Standards and ASCA Behavior Standards. By incorporatin' these standards, ye can rest assured that yer students be receivin' a comprehensive learnin' experience, coverin' their academic, social-emotional, and physical well-bein', all while fosterin' their sense of belongin' in the school environment.
  • The structure of this escape room be a trusty compass for ye in the realm of classroom management. Dividin' yer young sailors into small pirate crews allows ye to keep a keen eye on 'em and encourages collaboration. And fear not the chaos of the seven seas, for the clear progression of puzzles be keepin' 'em focused and on task.
  • But that's not all, me brave souls! As yer students work together in their pirate crews, ye'll have the perfect opportunity to observe and assess their social skills. Ye can witness their communicatin' prowess, their active listenin', and their ability to create positive relationships. This valuable insight be guidin' ye in providin' individualized guidance and interventions as needed.

So, me hearties, as we chart our course through this Pirate Pals Friendship Escape Room, let us celebrate the treasure trove of benefits awaitin' both children and teachers. With a better understandin' of friendly behaviors, emotional intelligence, problem-solvin' skills, a sense of belongin', and a taste of responsibility, ye young buccaneers shall be well-prepared to navigate the seas of friendship. And for ye teachers, the joy of engagin' learnin', the integration of educational standards, effective classroom management, and a keen eye on social skills assessment shall be yer rewards. Set sail, me hearties, and let friendship be the wind in yer sails!

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Friday, June 21, 2019

Engage Students to be a Rock "STAR" Student with Active Listening & Following Directions


Rock On! A Rock-N- Roll-Infused Lesson to Amp Up Engagement

Hey there! Getting students' attention these days can be quite a challenge, right? But here's a tip I've learned over the years: starting the year off with an Active Listening Lesson makes a world of difference, especially in the younger grades like Kindergarten and 1st grade. Trust me, if you do this, the students always remember, and it makes the rest of the year so much easier!

Crank Up the Volume: The Secret Phrase that Rocks "Body in Control"

Now, let me share an exciting idea I came up with to hook the children right from the start. I designed a Rock & Roll themed lesson using an interactive PowerPoint presentation. It's a blast! To grab their attention and get them ready to listen, I teach them a secret phrase. Are you ready? I say, "Rock-N-Roll." And when they hear it, the students respond with "Body in Control!" It's like a secret code that instantly refocuses their attention and primes them to actively participate in the lesson.


Interactive Power Chords: Riffing on Riddles for Active Listening

The slideshow has a captivating game where we solve riddles about different body parts and how they can help us listen better. The kids absolutely love it because they can interact with the slideshow to guess the correct answer! Together, we explore how each body part plays a role in effective listening and staying engaged in the classroom. 


For the finale, students get to complete an "a"maze"ing adventure! The students are tasked with finding their way out of a maze by identifying and the body parts associated with active body listening. It's hands-on and brings the concept of active listening to life in a tangible way.


Keep the Beat Alive: A Rockin' Mini-Poster for Year-Round Inspiration

I leave them with a mini-poster as a little keepsake. They can hang it up in their classroom to remember the lesson and the secret phrase throughout the year. The poster features vibrant images of rock and roll elements, reminding them of the excitement and energy they felt during the lesson. It serves as a visual reminder that keeps the rock and roll spirit alive, encouraging them to actively listen and engage in their learning journey.

So, let's embrace our inner rock stars and make active listening a fun and engaging experience. With this rock and roll-inspired approach, we can empower our students to listen attentively, participate wholeheartedly, and rock their way to success in the classroom. Let's turn up the volume on active listening together!

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Thursday, June 13, 2019

Meet My Rockin' School Counselor Back to School Guidance Introduction Lesson


Get ready to experience the rockin' vibes of your very own Rockstar School Counselor! From the moment I step through the school doors, I feel like a Rock Star, fueled by the awe-inspiring energy of the kids who make my job truly rock! With that electrifying spirit in mind, I proudly present to you my Meet the School counselor Introduction lesson: My Rockin’ School Counselor!

As we kick off the year, it's time to crank up the volume and remind everyone about the rocking role I play at our school. And what better way to set the stage than by jamming to the favorite hits of a Counselor! Here are a few:




Don't Worry, Be Happy School Counselor’s help you cope with worries.






Let it Go from FrozenSchool Counselors help you let your anger go.



Some important things I go over with my adoring fans:

  • School Counselors have a keen eye for spotting those who need a helping hand. During this lesson, we explore the different ways students can be referred for a backstage pass to my support.
  • We also discuss the reasons why students might want to rock out with the counselor, whether it's to fine-tune their academic performance, tune into positive friendships, or find harmony within their family life.
  • I meet with students individually, in small groups, and even in large assemblies. Just like a genuine rock star, I make appearances all around the school, spreading positive vibes wherever I go!
  • Every student in this rocking community is a VIP (Very Important Player), and it's time they feel it! I'll make sure they know they're the stars of the show, and their voices and dreams matter!


Community Buiding Activities:

Now, let's inject some rock 'n' roll energy into our activities! I created a fun and personalized "Get to Know You" activity. Students get the chance to create their own Top Hit Single by filling in the blanks with their favorite food and activity. For example, my Hit Single would be: "Eating Tacos while Acting on Stage!" Ha, ha, ha!


And to keep the excitement going, we have an epic game lined up. Imagine a crowd-surfing beach ball filled with Get to Know You questions, bouncing around the room like a wild rock concert! Students will toss the ball to one another, answering questions based on where their right thumb lands when they catch it. Get ready for some surprising and epic connections!

Finally, as our time comes to an end, we join in a rousing chant. I've added a special rockin' verse about School Counselors to the chant, "We Will Rock You." Let the kids start the beat, and we all join in chanting the verse!


Benefits:

Besides having a rockin’ good time, providing a Meet the School Counselor lesson at the beginning of the school year has lots of benefits:
  • Establishing Rapport: By introducing myself and my role early on, students can start connecting with the School Counselor from day one. This helps create a comfortable and trusting environment, where students feel comfortable seeking my help.
  • Promoting Awareness: The lesson shares my role and responsibilities as a School Counselor. Students gain an understanding of how the counselor can assist them throughout the school year. 
  • Destigmatizing Counseling: Sometimes, seeking counseling or support can carry a negative stigma. By openly discussing the reasons students may visit the counselor, such as academic concerns, friendship issues, or family challenges, we normalize the idea of seeking help and emphasize that it is a courageous and positive step toward personal growth.
  • Creating a Supportive Community: Introducing the School Counselor helps foster a sense of community and unity within the school. Students recognize that they have their own personalized support network.. 

So let's rock the beginning of the school year with a Meet the School Counselor lesson that sets the stage for an extraordinary journey together!




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