December 2019

Counselor's Newsletter

Hello Parents and Guardians,

The end of the year and our first semester is coming to an end! See some fun family activities to do in town during the winter break— a few are free! Also, check out some stress-relieving tips. We wish you and your family a joyous holiday season.

Upcoming Events
Winter Break is December 20th to January 3rd

Holiday (or Anytime) Stress Management Tips

• Breathe- Belly breathing (not shallow chest breathing) helps to alleviate stress hormones and it gets rid of carbon dioxide in our bodies. Relax your shoulders. Breathe in for several seconds, hold for a couple of seconds and exhale for several seconds.
• Squeeze the Fleshy Place between the Index Finger and your Thumb- This is called the Hoku spot. Apply firm pressure here for 30 seconds; this can reduce stress and tension in your upper body— take a deep breath at the same time.
• Forget Perfection- Good enough is good enough. The world is not going to end if something isn’t perfect, in fact it never is. Focus energy on people you love.
• Fragrances- Can aid in stress alleviation. Lavender, citrus, sage and chamomile are a few. Some of those make a nice cup of tea.
• Outdoors- Go for a walk or a hike. The repetition and bilateral movement have a calming effect on your brain; it decreases anxiety, improves sleep AND sunlight helps to stimulate the production of feel-good serotonin.
• Laughter- laughing reduces stress hormones. Listen to your favorite comedian for a few minutes, watch your favorite comedy, hang out with friends and family— ask questions.

• Arguing and Family Conflict
• Poor School Performance
• Teen Alcohol and Other Drug Use
• Runaways
• Early Teen Sexuality
• Youth Gangs
• Teen Violence and Bullying
• Teen Signs and Threats of Suicide

Give Kids a Smile

Check Out These Winter Break Family Activities

• Best Things to Do in Reno in Winter With Kids
• 10 Best Free (and Fun) Things To Do in Reno
• Winter Break Camps and Activities in Reno and Sparks