Transition (noun): movement, passage, or change from one position, state, stage, subject, concept, etc., to another; change.
Middle school is an important time and is filled with many changes and transitions for adolescents. This year, Putnam Ave. students will experience an additional transition—moving from one school building into another. Although moving to a new school can be exciting, other feelings may present themselves; we are moving in the middle of the school year and right before the December break after all!
We thought that it would be a good idea to provide families with some coping techniques that students can utilize during this transition. These techniques can help students deal with a range of emotions (e.g. anxiety, worry, excitement) that they may be feeling.
- Help students check their breathing. Teach them to take slow, steady breaths at all times. Have them listen to meditation music that is easily accessible through iTunes and Spotify.
- Help students center their thoughts. Have them focus on the here and now instead of thinking about what’s ahead. Remind them to take things day by day.
- Remind students to have some fun! Encourage them to dance, sing, and/or laugh!
- Teach them about the attitude of gratitude. How often do students move into brand new school buildings? Not often! Get them excited about moving into a brand new school building and being grateful for this rare opportunity.
- Remind students that they have support systems—family, friends and teachers—available to support them.
- Remind students that three school counselors are available at Putnam Ave. if anyone needs additional support. Students can also use the drop-in or drop-box methods as well as alerting a classroom teacher if they’d like to meet with a counselor.