Cultivating Compassion: Embracing Kindness in December

Hello HEB Parents and Guardians! 

As December arrives, we're embarking on a heartwarming journey centered around the theme of Compassion. This month, we explored the power of empathy and acts of kindness that have had the ability to warm hearts and create a positive ripple effect in our lives and communities. While self-compassion is essential to a healthy lifestyle, HEB acknowledges the positive impacts within our school culture and community. In doing so, counselling groups have focused on self-respect and self-talk, which brings a more positive environment to our students and staff. Join us as we delve into the beautiful world of compassion, igniting a season of giving, understanding, and shared joy. Additional counselling groups are continuing in the new year, if you are interested in these groups for your kiddo be sure to send a message to the email below. 

Resource Roundup: Nurturing Compassion

Discover these carefully selected resources for parents and students of all ages, designed to inspire compassion and kindness:

•  Self-Compassion 101

• Self-Compassion And How Can You Practice It

• 40 Empathy Activities & Worksheets

For more resources, check out the Compassion page on the NLPS website.

Be sure to come check out our musical, THE ELF on December 21st, at 6:00pm located in the HEB School gym. This is a free event, however, donations our welcome. 

Reflecting on Last Month: Your Insights Matter!

In November, we celebrated the art of building positive connections. Share your experiences: How did our previous mental health blog post bring warmth to your family? We'd love to hear the feedback and ideas that fostered compassion in your lives.

Nurturing Compassion: Tips for Students

Students, let's embrace compassion:

1. Random Acts of Kindness: Surprise someone with a small act of kindness. It could be holding the door open, offering a genuine compliment, or helping a classmate with their backpack. These little gestures can brighten someone's day and create a ripple effect of kindness.
2. Active Listening: Practice the art of truly listening to others. Put away distractions, maintain eye contact, and show genuine interest in what they have to say. By being fully present and attentive, you validate their feelings and show that you care.
3. Empathy Exercises: Put your empathy muscles to work by imagining yourself in someone else's situation. How would you feel? What challenges would you face? This exercise helps you understand and relate to others on a deeper level, fostering compassion and understanding.
4. Volunteer: Engage in community service or join a service club at your school. By actively participating in projects that help others, you not only make a positive impact but also develop a sense of compassion and social responsibility.

Connect with Our Student Advocacy Counsellors: Reach Out for Support

Need guidance or wish to discuss well-being? Our Student Advocacy Counsellors are here for you. Reach out to Mrs. Malo (Arcand) at whitney.arcand@nlsd.ab.ca or call at 780-826-3323 Let's continue our journey of compassion and kindness together.

Here's to a December filled with empathy, kindness, and a tapestry of shared joy. Let's cultivate compassion and brighten each other's paths!