As we head into the holiday season, our days at PCS continue to be full, meaningful, and focused on growth, both academically and socially-emotionally.

What’s Happening in Social-Emotional Learning?

In the primary grades, students have been spending time learning about their brains and how they work, building awareness around emotions, and practicing ways to manage big feelings. We’ve been exploring friendships, and what it means to be a good friend, how to navigate hard feelings like jealousy, and how to repair when things feel tricky. Students are also developing skills for calming their bodies, naming emotions, and problem-solving.

In the upper elementary grades, our work has focused on strengthening communication and relationship skills. Students are practicing how to manage strong emotions, solve problems collaboratively, and disagree with curiosity and respect. We’ve been emphasizing perspective-taking, flexibility, and finding constructive ways to express thoughts and feelings-even when opinions differ. Our students have been working hard day in and day out!

Across all grades, students are learning that big feelings are a part of being human, and that with practice, support, and reflection, they can grow their skills and confidence. Our days are busy, thoughtful, and filled with learning, and we continue to grow together as we enter into the New Year!

Supporting Your Child During the Holidays:

Children thrive on consistency and emotional connection. Here are a few ways to support them through the ups and downs of the season: 

Keep routines steady. Bedtimes and mealtimes provide comfort and predictability. 

Talk about feelings. Excitement, stress, or sadness are all normal this time of year. Let kids know it’s okay to feel many emotions at once. 

Model self-care. When children see adults managing stress in healthy ways, they learn to do the same. 

Encourage giving back. Acts of kindness-writing thank-you notes, donating toys, or helping a neighbor, can build empathy and community. 

Mental Health Matters: The shorter days and colder weather can affect mood and energy levels. If your child seems unusually tired, withdrawn, or irritable, reach out to a trusted adult or counselor for support. Sometimes small adjustments, like outdoor time, positive affirmations, or a family gratitude journal, can make a big difference.

Family Connection Idea:

Try this simple family activity: Each night, go around the dinner table and have everyone share: One thing they’re grateful for, One act of kindness they gave or received that day. It can be a great way to build gratitude and strengthen family bonds.

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Save the Date: Caregiver Conversation in January

We are excited to invite caregivers to our next Caregiver Conversation on January 22 from 5:30–7:00 at the Putney Central School Library. This conversation will focus on the Let Grow program and how we support children in building independence, resilience, confidence, and problem-solving skills, both at school and at home. There will be time for learning, discussion, reflection, and questions. Childcare and snacks will be provided.

We hope you’ll join us for this engaging and thoughtful evening!

“Let Grow is a school-based program designed to help children build independence, resilience, confidence, and strong problem-solving skills. The curriculum encourages age-appropriate independence and supports children in learning how to manage emotions, make decisions, and navigate challenges. By giving students opportunities to practice responsibility and perseverance, Let Grow helps children grow into capable, confident learners—both in and out of school.”

As always, if you have any questions or would like to request any additional support for your student, please do not hesitate to reach out! 

All the best,

Counselor Marisa