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 would be during their lunch and/or recess periods.  Some students struggle socially, emotional, behaviorially and they may be invited to a lunch bunch group. 

Some teachers refer students who may desire additional adult attention, time to work on socialization, practice problem-solving, regulation skills or just to learn how to better connect with others in a smaller setting. 

Even, some students just want to chat with their friends and strengthen their social connections in a quieter place rather than the loud lunchroom or busy recess area.

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

What happens in Lunch Bunch?
During lunch once a week, our counselor Mrs. Sokol gathers group members from the lunchroom with their food to meet in an empty room or her office to eat.

The groups begin with "check-in" where each person gets to share how their week is going and if they have a problem or worry they want to talk about.

After check-in, students usually play games (board games, card games etc. ) in my office.  The games vary but all involve communication skills, problem-solving, feelings expression and other skills as needed. 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!