Cultivating Wellness

Set your clocks back and enjoy the extra rest.

While schools focus on the how-to of academics, this monthly newsletter aims to emphasize support, encouragement, and connection to optimal mental health and wellness. The goal is to share tips and strategies that are simple enough to incorporate into an already full plate. At the very least, this newsletter is a regular reminder that we are in this together. We are all human and are all desperate for small successes and even more in need of a worthwhile connection.

The Importance of Routines for Kids

The Importance of Routines and Schedules

Healthy Habits for a Successful School Year

• National Alliance on Mental Illness-Genesee County Chapter
• Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
• The State of Michigan has created a Stay Well program that encourages individuals to Be Kind to Your Mind, providing access to support groups, help lines, webinars, behavioral health guides, and video resources. This Mindfulness and Stress Resilience Guide is one tool provided. Check the link to learn more.
• Michigan 211 helps to connect individuals to a variety of services, including mental health providers.
  

It's that time of year when we begin to prepare for winter and the Holidays. For some, that means stretching an already tight budget. Below are a few local resources:

For help with the upcoming holidays, contact:

https://www.flintandgenesee.org/holiday-resource-guide,

Old Newsboys of Flint. https://onbflint.org (applications available 10/30/2023 - 12/15/2023)

Toys for Tots: https://www.toysfortots.org (applications available 111/27/23 - 12/22/23)

For help with bill payment, food, and/or shelter, contact:

Salvation Army, https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/genesee

As the leaves change and Thanksgiving approaches, transitioning into the beautiful fall season is a wonderful time to talk about the importance of self-care for teachers, students, and parents. Fall is a time of exciting seasonal changes. It can also bring about stress and challenges. Listed below are several tips and insights on self-care strategies during the fall and Thanksgiving season.

Self-Care for Students:

1. Establish a Routine: With school in full swing, maintaining a consistent daily routine can be grounding for children. Encourage regular sleep patterns, homework schedules, and designated playtime. Predictability helps reduce anxiety.

2. Embrace the Outdoors: Fall offers a colorful playground for kids to explore. Encourage outdoor activities like hiking, bike rides, and leaf collecting. Nature is an excellent source of relaxation.

3. Mindful Activities: Teach your child mindfulness techniques like deep breathing or yoga. These activities can help them manage stress and stay present in the moment.

4. Balanced Nutrition: Promote healthy eating habits. Encourage children to enjoy seasonal fruits and vegetables. Limit sugary snacks. A well-balanced diet supports overall well-being.

5. Connect with Friends: Foster social connections by arranging playdates or group activities. Positive social interactions contribute to emotional well-being.

Self-Care for Parents:

1. Prioritize "Me" Time: Remember that you deserve self-care too. Schedule time for relaxation and self-reflection. Whether it's a cup of tea, reading a book, or taking a walk, be available for yourself.

2. Gratitude Journal: As we reflect on the end of 2023 and prepare for 2024, consider keeping a journal. Writing down your successes, plans, and strategies to achieve your goals can shift your perspective and boost your mood.

3. Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity to release endorphins and reduce stress. Consider family walks or workouts for an added bonding opportunity.

4. Delegate Responsibilities: Don't hesitate to ask for help when needed. Whether it's related to school projects or household chores, sharing the load can relieve stress.

5. Connect with Other Parents: Seek out support from other parents. Sharing experiences and advice can be therapeutic. Consider joining a parent support group or attending school events.

Fall and Thanksgiving Activities:

The fall season provides numerous opportunities for family bonding. Here are some activities to consider:

1. Harvest Festival: Attend local harvest festivals and enjoy the festivities, including pumpkin carving, hayrides, and delicious fall treats.

2. Nature Walks: Explore the beautiful fall foliage at nearby parks or nature preserves. This can be a wonderful way for families to unplug and connect with the environment.

3. Cooking Together: Involve your children in meal preparation, particularly with special meals or for significant family events. It's a wonderful way to teach them about the importance of the holiday. It also connects them to their heritage and creates lasting memories.

4. Crafts and Decorations: Get creative with autumn themed crafts and decorations. It's an excellent way to engage your children's creative expression. As we navigate the changing seasons and embrace the spirit of Thanksgiving, remember that self-care is essential for the well-being of your family. Taking care of yourself and your children ensures you are better equipped to face the challenges and joys that the season brings.

Supporting the whole child starts with supporting all the adults involved in the educational process. From direct providers, such as teachers and paraprofessionals, to those indirectly involved with student success (business, transportation, operations, human resources, etc.). Our need for self-care is critical so we can bring our best self to work each day.

The GISD has taken steps to develop a customizable wellness toolkit available to staff throughout Genesee County schools, programs, and GISD departments. This toolkit has been created to help administrators and managers implement and create sustainable staff wellness initiatives. While resources are often spread thin and opportunities for added programs may be far and few between, one key for programs and departments is to start where they are and commit to intentional moves toward creating and sustaining a culture of wellness.

The Cultivating Staff Wellness (CSW) Toolkit is based on SAMHSA’s Eight Dimensions of Wellness: emotional, physical, spiritual, environmental, occupational, financial, intellectual, and social. Complete the Cultivating Staff Wellness Registration Form so that your school, program, or department can access the CSW Toolkit.

Our team is committed to promoting wellness in schools as well as in our communities through support of students, staff, and parents. We strive to highlight what's working in wellness, bring you relevant and helpful information for wellness, and to provide connections to community resources that may assist with wellness.

To learn more about health and wellness for teachers, students, and families, check out our page on the GISD website.