WCPS Department of School Psychology

11/18/2021

There is some psychology behind the art of designing an excellent test for students.

A review of a dozen recent studies reveals that to design good tests, teachers need to consider bias, rigor, and mindset.

11/15/2021

Calming breaks can make a world of difference in a bustling classroom setting.

Simple, quick exercises improve mindfulness, self-regulation, and well-being, for both students and teachers.

11/11/2021

Visual Schedules and Sequences and Free Stuff, oh my!

Are you thinking about using a visual schedule in preschool to teach independence? Here are 3 types for you to use in your classroom...

11/08/2021

I LOVE this list!

You know what not to say--are you as certain about the opposite?

11/04/2021

While the studies mentioned in this article generally took place in different countries, it is an important reminder to have those "tough" conversations with kids about safe virtual behavior and how to handle unwanted situations.

Many girls view unwanted sexual images as a thing you just have to get used to.

11/01/2021

Sitting still all day is hard! Purposeful movement can help kids learn.

Physical activity that amplifies learning can have a powerful effect on retention and engagement—it’s also fun.

10/28/2021

Expecting mothers are aware of many substances and situations to avoid for the health of their baby. Research is beginning to underscore the importance of taking care of mom's mental health as well as physical health during pregnancy.

Episodes of maternal stress or depression during pregnancy are associated with chemical modifications to placental genes, according to a study by researchers from the National Institutes of Health. The modifications involve DNA methylation—binding of compounds known as methyl groups to DNA—which...

10/28/2021

Do your kids like explosions or eruptions? Then sign them up for our next Afternoon STEAM Take and Make! We'll have all the supplies. https://wcfl.librarymarket.com/events/afternoon-steam-make-volcano

10/26/2021

Some people may start to feel consistently “down” when the days get shorter in the fall and winter and begin to feel better in the spring with its longer daylight hours. In some cases, these mood changes are more serious and, as with all types of depression, can affect how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression characterized by its recurrent seasonal pattern, with symptoms lasting about four to five months per year. Learn more about SAD during NIMH's livestream event tomorrow, October 26. Watch NIMH expert Dr. Matt Rudorfer right here on NIMH's Facebook or Twitter pages. https://go.usa.gov/xMHbT

10/25/2021

Research continues to explore links between race, discipline, and overall school experience.

Black students are often subject to harsher discipline at school than white students, and those punishments can damage students’ perceptions of their school and negatively impact their academic success years later.

10/21/2021

How can we adults support kiddos struggling with emotion regulation?

When a child's emotions get hot, it's hard for anyone to remain calm. That's where practicing calming strategies before the emotions boil over can help, according to Katie Hurley.