What is Lunch Bunch?
One of the ways to get to know students and support students in an elementary school is through lunch bunches.  I find it important not to disrupt your child's instructional time, so another way to support students socially is through lunch bunches during lunch/recess times. 

 

Some students, not all, struggle socially, emotional, behaviorially and they may be part of lunch bunches. Socialization is best taught through role modelling and interactive play.  Some staff refer students for various reasons that they feel it may be beneficial to the student ie., attention, time to work on social skills, practice problem-solving, regulation skills or just to learn how to better connect with others in a smaller setting. Parents will always be notified if this is the case.

 

Some lunch bunches are just an opportunity for students  hang out and chat in a smaller, quieter and less overwhelming setting.  

 

Building social connections is part of my job, while building the emotional/social supports within our school. There are several reasons why a student is invited, nevertheless, each invite usually involves a teacher referral/consultation. 

What happens in Lunch Bunch?
Our counselor Mrs. Sokol, gathers students invited from the lunchroom with their lunch to meet in an empty room or her office to eat.  Allergies are always carefully considered for safety.  Groups are kept to small numbers to encourage socialization. 

 

 

While eating and chatting, students usually play games (board games, card games etc. ) in my office while listening to a set lunch bunch music playlist. Sometimes we have created crafts and/or sang karaoke. The students then go back to class when their lunch/recess period is over.

How can I request my student join a Lunch Bunch group?
Feel free to call or email Mrs. Sokol or their homeroom teacher to arrange an invite for your child!  Some students take the initiative and ask to schedule a lunch bunch.  We like to encourage this independent and self advocacy skill!