TO: Parent of 3rd and 4th Grade Students
FROM: Karen Boffa, Elementary Counselor
RE: Support Groups
DATE: January 9, 2004

The purpose of a support group is to complement and enhance student learning by helping students improve their perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors. A support group provides a safe setting in which a group leader can assist several students to increase their: 1) self awareness, 2) cooperation, and 3) ability to have fun with peers. The students also learn from one another and help each other. Ultimately, the goal of an elementary support group is to prevent problems among our children later on in their lives.
The following support groups will be offered to students in grades 3 and 4 this winter. Each group will meet for 45 minutes, once per week, for a total of 8 weeks in the guidance room at Plummer-Motz School. Third grade and fourth grade groups will meet during their lunch and recess time. There will be 5-7 members per group. All groups will be activity-based.

FRIENDSHIP GROUPS
A Friendship Group provides an opportunity for group members, within the same grade level, to become more self-aware, self-confident, and sensitive to others. The Group is designed to promote self-understanding, decision-making, responsibility, and cooperation. The first portion of each meeting is for discussing topics brought up by group members. During the second portion of the meeting, the group chooses an activity through consensus. Time at the end is provided for group members to process and evaluate. Your child does not have to have “problem” to participate in one of these groups! Role models are welcome!!

FAMILY CHANGE GROUPS
A Family Change Group offers information, support, and help to children who have experienced a change in their family such as a separation or divorce, and/or the addition of step family members. The goals of this group are: 1) providing a safe place where children can freely explore and express their thoughts and feelings about their parents’ separation or divorce, 2) helping group members understand that others share similar feelings and experiences, 3) helping children gain a realistic picture of the divorce situation, and 4) giving students an opportunity to learn new communication and coping skills. It is hoped that through the process of sharing, being listened to, and helping others, the group will also positively affect each child’s self-concept.* * * * * * * * * * * * If your child would like to participate in one of the groups mentioned, please fill out the form below and return it to school by THURSDAY, January 15.

If you have any questions, or if there is any reason you do not wish your child to participate in support groups, please feel free to contact me at 781-3988 or e-mail: kboffa@fps.k12.me.us

Support Groups

My child would like to participate in the following group:

_______ Friendship
_______ Family Change

Child’s Name _________________ Grade ___Teacher ____________

Parent’s Signature ________________________________________