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Stress Management and Wellbeing through Values-Based Program


Session on Stress Management

"Taking exams." "Performing on stage." "Roller coasters!"

Fifth Grade boys shared a number of situations they found stressful with their Sophrosyne teacher, Mrs. MacNeille. How did they cope in such situations? Avoid studying for the test or auditioning for a part? Amplify by wallowing or acting out? Or, did they learn to be emotionally agile: flexible with their thoughts and feelings without letting them take over?

Classes like these in our Sophrosyne program address our boys' character development and social-emotional wellbeing. An ancient Greek virtue, Sophrosyne signifies excellence of character and a healthy state of mind, characterized by self-control, moderation, and awareness of one's true self.

In class, boys are reflective and approach topics in relation to their personal, family, and shared values. At the heart of the program, is the underlying truth that it is by knowing one's self and cultivating a healthy sense of self respect, that a boy can thrive and develop character.

Recent Prepare, Inc Workshop with Eighth Graders

In upper grades, we partner with Common Sense Media, Hallways, and Prepare Inc, organizations that specialize in delivering instruction related to social and emotional health and wellness to adolescents. Sessions include discussion, debate, and roleplaying across a range of topics such as digital citizenship, perfectionism, and peer pressure.

As our boys develop empathy, respect, and appreciation for all types of difference, they learn to make safe and ethical decisions, as well as the importance of understanding their own attitudes and feelings, and those of others.




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