Boosting Student Success: Engaging Activities for Emotional and Academic Growth



At the end of the year, many families ask teachers how to keep their child from falling behind during the holidays. I recommend using review activities to reinforce what students have learned throughout the year and establishing routines that balance play, creativity, and reflection.

I’ve developed a new activity focused on personal and emotional growth, aimed at improving both academic success and overall well-being through strong connections with students and families.

As Brian Tracy says, "Personal development is a major time-saver. The better you become, the less time it takes you to achieve your goals."

Children’s learning is influenced by their emotions, self-talk, and family environment. Understanding their diverse dreams and goals—whether academic, social, emotional, etc helps them achieve great things when they connect with their true selves.

To support this, I designed a review activity in both PDF format and Google Slides called "Summer Review - Personal Growth." This review includes:

  1. Brevity with Depth: The activity is designed to be brief, which might make students question its depth. However, its strength lies in daily improvement and a sense of accomplishment. Although tasks may become easier over time, they still require high commitment and effort, similar to how a gym routine evolves as strength and agility grow.

  2. Emotional Awareness: The activity helps children recognize their emotions, value themselves, and enhance positive self-talk. This fosters progress and security.

Aristotle once said, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” As teachers, we play a crucial role in mentoring students, guiding their self-discovery, and nurturing their self-esteem. Seeing children recognize their true selves is like witnessing a magical transformation. It boosts their confidence and self-worth, making challenges seem easier and turning them into eager, rapidly improving learners. It’s a truly rewarding experience.

You might find it useful at any time of the year or when working on beach or ocean projects:

  • Reading Activity Log: Keeps students motivated and tracks their progress. It’s like a workout for the brain.
  • Daily Journal: Helps children process their emotions, boosts writing skills, and allows them to express their thoughts and ideas.
  • Feelings Graph Worksheet: Encourages children to become aware of their emotions and manage frustration and negativity, promoting emotional well-being.
  • Shapes Worksheet: Features "I AM Statements" that enhance focus, confidence, inner peace, and motivation by helping children recognize their strengths.
  • Time and Problem-Solving Worksheets: Promote reflection, critical thinking, and effective time management.

Let me know which review activity is your favorite!

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