Setting Expectations for Fall
with Christopher Harris, MEd and Kendra Evans Fraka, MSW
Episode 1, Season 2 | August 18, 2021
Show Notes
Only one thing is certain this school year, and that’s the fact that no one knows what to expect. Parents, students and staff are feeling apprehensive about what the transition to full-time, on-campus learning will look like. We may be eager for our kids to jump right back into academics to make up for a year of learning loss, but we also know that they need to feel safe, secure and emotionally ready. In today’s podcast episode, CHC’s Chief Education Officer, Chris Harris, MEd and Kendra Evans Fraka, MSW discuss strategies for a successful start of school, including building a community of belongingness in the classroom, creating routine and consistency while helping kids stay flexible and adaptable, and celebrating the small wins along the way.
Guest Info
Christopher Harris, MEd
Kriewall-Haehl Family Sand Hill School Interim Head of School, Chief Schools Officer at CHC
Chris has developed and refined specialized interdisciplinary programming for children with learning, social-emotional and attention challenges at Children’s Health Council for over 15 years. He is also an adjunct lecturer in the Graduate School Special Education Department at San José State University. In the past, Chris has also served as Executive Director at The Janus School, Pennsylvania, The Chartwell School, Monterey, California, and CHC.
Kendra Evans Fraka, MSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Kendra has nearly 20 years’ experience working with children and their families in outpatient, residential, school and home settings developing strategies with parents and teachers and using social cognitive and behavioral interventions with children who have difficulties with peers, impulse regulation or anxiety.
Resources
Learn more about CHC’s Clinical Services
Learn more about Evaluations
CDC Guidance for Schools
From CHC's Resource Library:
Ready or Not… Expert Advice for a Smooth Start to the School Year
How to Help Your Child Rekindle Friendships at Any Age
How to Help Your Child With Back-to-School Anxiety
The Return to School: Tips for Parents of Anxious Children
Handling Back-to-School Anxiety in a Pandemic
How to Prep Kids for a Potentially Bumpy Return to School
