Counselor’s Corner – January 2026
Happy New Year, families! I hope your winter break was restful and full of cozy moments. January can feel like a long, gray month here in Seattle, so at school we’re focusing on helping students ease back into routines, reconnect with friends, and build skills to support both learning and well-being.
Tips for at Home – a few simple ways to support your child during the winter months:
- Keep routines predictable when possible (sleep, homework, screen time)
- Encourage outdoor movement. Even a short walk helps!
- Normalize big feelings and remind your child that it is okay to ask for help
- Celebrate small wins as your child adjusts back into school life
A reminder – If your child is dealing with changes at home, big feelings, or social changes please don’t hesitate to reach out. I am always happy to connect and help however I can.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support. Wishing you a warm and healthy start to the new year!
Mrs. Manley, smanley@st-johnschool.org
January Resources
- Did your child get a new device over the holidays? Consider using these Family Tech Planners from Common Sense Media to guide your child in making safe and healthy choices online.
- The winter months can be a particularly blue time of the year for many. The post-holiday letdown combined with the dark and cold days often lead to a decline in mood and motivation. To learn about how to distinguish between typical winter blues from something more severe, check out this article from Seattle Children’s Hospital; it’s packed with great insights and resources.
