A few thoughts as we transition

I wanted to send a quick note as the groups are making an important transition. Over the first few weeks of the group sessions, I focus the groups on helping students understand occupation, getting to know themselves, and how to both consider their environments and how that shapes habits and routines. Finally, we looked at writing goals.

Now that most of the western world will be starting the traditional school year, I will also transition into more specific groups providing help for common challenges to student success.

Next up? I give my ideas on how to tackle procrastination.

These sessions range from building awareness of procrastination patterns (next week) followed by four fun, interactive problem-solving approaches that get students actively engaged in solving procrastination challenges.

After procrastination, the group activities will focus on self-advocacy then social connections on campus (at all levels) followed by a few groups on developing sensory awareness before I take a break for the end of (the calendar) year transition.

A few notes about the groups as you consider how you might be able to use a group approach on your campus:

1. This group series focuses at the promotion and prevention level, not at the individual level. With that said, not every student will connect with each activity and that is completely normal. As a group facilitator it is important to observe for students who might need referrals out to additional services - counseling, psychology, occupational therapy, primary care, etc so that students can get the individual-level support that they might need.
2. While all the strategies might not work for all students, what I've consistently seen is the power of peer support and group dynamics when students realize they're not alone in their struggles on campus. There's something really valuable that happens when students hear "me too" from their peers.

With that said, I am excited to start sharing some more specific group activity ideas that start with procrastination.

Feel free to reach out with suggestions or comments along the way - tell me what you need to support students better.

And good luck in the new school year!

Karen