This March we have focused on the Leopard Life Skill of "Optimism," having a positive and hopeful outlook about future outcomes even when things are difficult. We have taught students that in school and in life things are not always easy, but when we focus on having a positive attitude, such emotions can overcome the negative effects of bad experiences. A positive outlook helps build one's resiliency to handle challenges and setbacks, and we want our little leopards to be able to "bounce back" from the difficulties they face in all areas of their lives.

Now that we are approaching the month of April, we will begin learning about the Leopard Life Skill of "Social/Emotional Intelligence." Students will learn that social/emotional intelligence is "understanding and managing feelings and emotions to adapt well in different situations." Research shows that emotions are directly tied to how and what students learn. Therefore, we want to equip our leopards with the skills to adjust to different situations and to thrive in relationships with others. Our focus will be on understanding and managing our own feelings, as well as understanding the feelings of others and learning how to respond appropriately in various situations. This includes learning how to manage strong feelings in a healthy way and finding solutions during conflicts with others. Social/emotional intelligence is one more important skill that will help our students become more successful in school and in life.

Our Leopard Life Skills are based on the nine character strengths, skills, and mindsets from Character Lab. You can get more information about these by visiting their website at  www.characterlab.org. Please feel free to contact me any time if you have any questions. We appreciate your support in helping us develop these strengths, skills, and mindsets in our little leopards!

Mrs. Ruggeri