Developmental Guidance Lessons
Developmental guidance lessons are taught at all grade levels at various times throughout the year. The lessons are designed to meet the needs of the student population. Lessons incorporate a variety of teaching techniques, including stories, role plays, large group presentations and small group activities. Lessons at each grade level fall under one of four categories: Empathy, Emotion Management, Problem Solving, and Learning Skills. All lessons are designed to meet standards established by the American School Counselor Association.
Kindergarten - Each time the school counselor visits the kindergarten class a story is shared, followed by time to discuss and process the information. Kindergarten lessons are approximately 15-20 minutes in duration for a total of 16 sessions. Lessons are taught one time per cycle from September through January. Kindergarten lessons cover the following themes:
- Identifying and expressing feelings
- The learning process
- Problem solving
- Respecting differences
- Getting along with others
- Friendship
Grade 1 – First grade lessons begin in September and go through mid-November. Each lesson is 30 minutes and occurs one time per cycle. First grade lessons feature the following topics:
- Making friends - Following directions
- Respecting differences - Identifying and handling feelings
- Tattling/Reporting - Setting a good example
Grade 2- Second grade guidance lessons focus on various aspects of Self-Esteem and Friendship. The purpose of this unit is to help students develop the skill necessary to develop and maintain healthy peer relationships as well as to create and encourage a positive self-image. Concepts are presented through books, activities, discussions, and role-plays. Lessons start in January and occur one time per cycle for a total of eight 30 minute lessons.
Grade 3 - Conflict Resolution is the focus of the third grade guidance lessons. Students learn to identify situations that trigger anger and ways to deal with anger in a constructive manner that doesn't result in creating additional problems. They are provided with techniques to assist them in resolving conflicts in a positive way. Brainstorming, class discussions and small group activities are integral components of instruction. Eight third grade lessons are taught from September – November.
Grade 4 - Dealing with Peer Pressure and Transitions is the theme for fourth grade guidance lessons. Character education stories are used to present ideas such as cooperation, compassion, peer pressure, teamwork, adapting to change and citizenship. Eight lessons are taught starting in January. Hands-on activities are part of each lesson. Many fourth grade lessons follow a Class Meeting model which assists in developing communication skills to create a dialogue to discuss topics.