Health & Wellness Break: Wander Jar

Miss Shaw, our school counselor, has many wonderful projects, ideas, and resources to help students with their emotional health during these distressing times.  One such project is the Wander Jar.  It is an easy project.  Upon completion, students can use the Wander Jar to let their minds wander as the colors and patterns change; it’s an easy way to take a mental breath.  Miss Shaw also shares her list of 30 little things that students can do for their emotional well-being, such as write a letter to someone to let them know you are thinking of them; go on a bike ride with your family; or talk to an adult about your favorite place.  Try one, or all.

Don’t forget that all of our specialists have great resources for our students to help them with their health and well-being.

Art with Mrs. Kay:  Have you tried paper crafting?  Mrs. Kay has links to make paper sheep, hedgehogs, and apples. Or take some drawing lessons and draw owls, dinosaurs, and geese.  There are many resources for the inner artist!

Library with Mrs. Longton:  Read any good books lately?  This is a great time to start!  Mrs. Longton has links to the Seattle Public Library as well as to online author events.  Do you need recommendations for good fit books?  Mrs. Longton is happy to help you find new titles.

Music with Mrs. Tsagalakis:  Have you learned “Soap and Water” – a parody of Beyonce’s “Single Ladies”?  It will make you smile and help you remember to wash your hands.  Don’t forget to check out Mrs. Tsagalakis’s new song, “In This Together.”  It will fill you with gladness!  Mrs. Tsagalakis has links to other songs and music games.

Physical Activity with Miss Tsagalikis:  Try a daily fitness challenge or flow through a series of poses while being mindful of your breath.  Any physical activity keeps the body healthy, clears the mind, and improves mental health by decreasing depression, anxiety, and loneliness.