In November Olympia will be focusing on finding the right balance between our devices, an onslaught of media, and our own personal well-being. Read more of our philosophy around this topic here: bit.ly/OlyMediaBalance
It was a spooky day in 2nd grade as the students tested their knowledge of the states of matter as they investigated the mystery boxes in Fear Factor. They used adjectives to describe what they felt (or smelled) and then used inferencing and their scientific knowledge about each state of matter to make an educated guess regarding the contents of each mystery box. Fun was had by all!
Article: New Healthy Media Habits for Young Kids
Now that screen-time recommendations are more flexible, it's time for new rules. | Caroline Knorr
https://bit.ly/OlyMBCK
Walk through what to do if your kid is being bullied online. First, step away. Ignoring a bully can be very effective. If the bullying continues, take screenshots or print out evidence. Then block the person. If it gets worse, report the behavior to a trusted adult.
Article: bit.ly/OlyCBA5
Other than straight-up cyberbullying, what are some other reasons our kids might be bummed by others' online behavior? Read more about ghosting, subtweeting, griefing (plus more), and learn some simple tips on how to handle these situations.
Halloween Fest is on Sunday, Oct 27 from 1-3 pm at Olympia High School. Wristbands are $5 at the South Athletic doors. Halloween Fest is sponsored by the Olympia National Honor Society. All proceeds go to Toys for Tots.
Questions? Email Mrs. Hapgood: amanda.hapgood@olympia.org
If you notice your kid getting pulled into digital drama, help them take a break. They might need some help setting limits. Putting devices to bed at a specific time, plus breaks for mealtimes and face-to-face connection, can help kids recharge.
At tonight's New Teacher Academy, veteran teachers from across the district came together to share their best practices for a successful classroom environment and student learning. The theme of conversation was that "We are all in for our students!"
Have you heard your child talk about MTSS or small group time? This is a designated 25 minutes every day that every student gets what they need to improve their academic skills. Our staff has worked hard to restructure this time and it is very student centered and we are seeing great progress from our students!
Resources: bit.ly/OlyCBR2
There are A LOT of "social media" sites out there. You know about Twitter & Facebook, but what about Reddit, TikTok, Snapchat, or Discord? Educate yourself with these "Parent's Ultimate Guides" from Common Sense media!
Video: bit.ly/OlyCBV4
For kids, miscommunication is a common occurrence online and on social media. Plus, being behind a screen makes it easier to say things they wouldn't say in person. So how do we help kids avoid the pitfalls of digital drama? Hear it from the source!
Let kids know that supporting someone who is being bullied makes a difference. If they feel safe confronting the bully, they should. If not, a PM can help someone through a tough time. Speaking up against hate speech is important too!
bit.ly/OlyCBB
Teaching kids character strengths and life skills such as empathy is one of the most important jobs of being an adult. These great books for all ages help make it easier by celebrating friendship, difference, and the importance of caring for one another.
Video: bit.ly/OlyCBV5
Digital harassment happens when teens use texts, instant messages, emails, and social media posts to keep tabs on or threaten someone else. It usually involves two people in a close relationship. Here are four ways to help teens avoid digital harassment.
If kids feel like they might have trouble removing themselves from digital drama, experiment with some different ways they can make a graceful exit. Talk through words they can use, ways they can steer conversations in positive directions, etc.
Video: bit.ly/OlyCBV6
Cyberbullying is something most families hope they never have to deal with. But if your kids are texting, sharing photos, and posting comments, it’s important to talk to them about how to deal with online harassment. Learn 5 ways to stop cyberbullies.
Just like you'd ask your kid about their sleep, exercise, and eating, stay on top of their online life. Who are they chatting with? How do people treat each other in the games and on the sites they're using?
Video: bit.ly/OlyCBV2
As kids grow, they'll naturally start to communicate more online, but some of what they see could make them feel hurt, sad, angry, or even fearful. Help your students build empathy for others and learn strategies to use when confronted with cyberbullying.
Video: bit.ly/OlyCBV1 Let's face it: Some online spaces can be full of negative, rude, or downright mean behavior. But what counts as cyberbullying? Help your kids learn what is - and what isn't - cyberbullying, and give them the tools they'll need to combat the problem.
SAVE THE DATE: The OHS National Honor Society is hosting their annual Halloween Fest on October 27th from 1-3 PM. $5 wristband at entrance - all proceeds will benefit Toys for Tots.
