Wildcats,

Even though we are not together, we want you to know that we are here for you!  Please do not hesitate to contact us! 

Check out our disscussion page, Let's Hear You, and let us hear your thoughts and ideas.

The American School Counselor Association has many resources available here: https://www.schoolcounselor.org/school-counselors/professional-development/learn-more/coronavirus-resources

Parents - this is also a good time to check out your child's device use; social media posts and follows, web search history, private windows and total screen time. There are many ways to do this which can be found with a quick internet search.  While direct communication and trust is the best situation, teen agers and pre teens are in the phase of development where the pull away from guidance and oversight but still need it.

The adolescent brain does not have a fully developed pre-frontal cortex, the decision-making center, and relies on a part of the brain called the amygdala to make decisions and solve problems more than adults do. The amygdala is associated with emotions, impulses, aggression and instinctive behaviour.  The internet has a way of pushing in even when it is not welcome and kids can sometimes unknowingly make choices which will negatively impact their ability to form strong, healthy relationships without processing the information with a trusted adult.  We are not encouraging spying, but staying informed and allowing yourself the opportunity to discuss things with your child sharing your family values and expectations.  

Sincerely,

The Auburn Middle School Counseling Department