September 2025 Counselor’s Corner
At Forest Elementary School, we believe in fostering positive values that help our students grow into kind, thoughtful individuals. This month’s featured word is respect—a fundamental trait that builds strong communities both in and out of the classroom. Let’s explore what respect means, how your child can practice it, and some wonderful books to spark conversations at home.
What Is Respect?
Respect is treating others, yourself, and the world around you with kindness, consideration, and fairness. It means valuing people’s feelings, opinions, and belongings, even when they differ from your own. For young learners, respect starts with simple actions like listening when someone speaks or using polite words. It’s about creating a safe, supportive environment where everyone feels valued.
How Students Can Show Respect
Encouraging respect at school and home helps children develop empathy and good habits. Here are some age-appropriate ways your PK-4th grader can demonstrate respect:
• To Teachers and Peers: Listen actively during lessons, raise your hand to speak, and use kind words like “please” and “thank you.” Celebrate classmates’ ideas and differences without teasing.
• To Themselves: Take care of your body by eating well, getting enough rest, and speaking positively about yourself. Respect your own learning by trying your best and asking for help when needed.
• To Property and the Environment: Handle school supplies gently, clean up after activities, and recycle to show care for our planet. At home, this could mean putting toys away or helping with chores.
Discuss these ideas as a family—perhaps over dinner—and praise your child when you see them in action!
Literature Selections for PK-4th Graders
Reading together is a fantastic way to reinforce respect. Here are some engaging books tailored to different grade levels, available at libraries or online:
• Pre-K to Kindergarten: The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister – This colorful tale about a shiny fish learning to share teaches respect for others through friendship and generosity.
• 1st to 2nd Grade: Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes – A story of a mouse with a unique name who faces teasing, highlighting the importance of respecting individuality and kindness.
• 3rd to 4th Grade: The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes – A classic about a girl who claims to have many dresses but faces bullying, encouraging discussions on empathy, standing up for others, and respecting differences.
We hope this inspires meaningful talks and activities at home. Together, we’re building a respectful school community!
Mrs. Atkison, FES School Counselor