Social and emotional learning (SEL) provides a foundation for safe and positive learning, and enhances students' ability to succeed in school, careers, and life. Our school counselors collaborate with classroom teachers to infuse the curriculum with relevant teachable moments. Here are some ways Mrs. Molano, our Lower School Counselor, works with our youngest Patriots to support their social, emotional, physical, and intellectual well-being. 

Welcome Newest Patriots

Every year Mrs. Molano has lunch with the new elementary students to make them familiar with the counseling services. It can be scary and overwhelming to start in a new school and our Lower School Counselor wants to make sure these students feel supported socially and emotionally from the start. She sets up a picnic style blanket and invites the new students to share about their hopes and dreams as a new CDS Patriot. They also get to see her office and understand that they can come at any time for help and support in case they feel sad or lonely. And a picture  with the heart pillow became our CDS tradition!

Monthly Focus

Mrs. Molano wants parents to know that as part of our Wellness programming, we focus on Social-Emotional learning. This month elementary students will focus on self-regulation. Make sure to ask your children about ways to self regulate and the colors of the emotions. Mrs. Molano will visit every elementary class once a month to present topics on social-emotional learning. 

Mrs. Molano also visits the early childhood campus each week. This month she is practicing Mindful Belly Breathing with the students. Belly breathing is a simple and powerful tool that can help young children calm themselves when big feelings arise.

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Thank you to Mrs. Molano for sharing this information and for everything the entire Wellness team does to support CDS students of all ages. Please visit the Student Support section of our school website to learn more about our dedicated counselors and student support team.