In this episode we talk about the power of using emotional check in with students and ideas of check ins to use with students.

Why Use Emotional Check-Ins:

• Emotional check-ins are a valuable tool for school counselors.
• They serve as an assessment of students' emotional well-being.
• Identify students who may need additional support or intervention.
• Promote a safe and supportive environment for students to express their feelings.
• Foster empathy among students as they share their emotions.
• Build trust and enhance group dynamics.
• Reduce potential conflicts within the group.
• Provide tailored support for individual students.
• Teach emotional intelligence and self-awareness.
• Normalize the ups and downs of life to reduce the stigma around counseling.
• Track progress over time.
• Enhance students' communication skills.

Check In Examples:

• Sentence starters: "I feel," "I wish," "I need," "I hope," "I want."
• "High Low Buffalo" - Positive, negative, and something funny from the day.
• "Hit Rewind, Let's Rerecord, Press Play" - Reflecting on what to replay, rerecord, or look forward to.
• "Happy News, Sad News, No News Today" - Sharing something positive, something negative, or having nothing to share.
• Using thermometers or Likert scales to rate their day.
• "Feelings Check-In" with pictures of emotions for younger students.
• Creative options like "Brick and a Balloon," "Glow and Grow," "High and Low," and more.
• "Rose, Thorn, and Bud" - Sharing a good thing, a not-so-great thing, and something to look forward to.

Links Mentioned:

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