New to School Social Work?
The Board of the New York State School Social Workers' Association's (NYSSSWA) would like to welcome you to the profession and/ or your new position. NYSSSWA has worked hard to provide a wealth of resources to assist you. We would like to invite you to become a NYSSSWA member and enjoy the many benefits of membership including members' only pages and reduced conference fees. In the meantime...
Feeling overwhelmed?
Not sure where to begin? Check out the following tips and advice from some seasoned School Social Workers for your consideration.
Tips and Advice to School Social Workers New to the Field:
- Be visible!!
- It's really easy to get stuck in your office... don't do it!!
- Create a Calm Corner.
- My first year I volunteered to help outside with bus duty. Now I stand in the main hallway at dismissal. Great way to get to know kids!
- Be visible at lunch time.
- Seek out a trustworthy person once you get your bearings to have as a sounding board.
- Set the timer for a few minutes for students to play with fidgets before talking so students are ready to problem solve.
- At the elementary level, help in classrooms if you don't have a student in session: i.e. do a group, play a game, help so the teacher can go to lunch or the bathroom!
- At the secondary level, walk the halls especially between classes.
- Make a pocket folder for each student and color coordinate by grade. Each folder has their goal, data sheet, and visuals that we use. I also keep random activities we do for evidence and often put a post it at the end of session of what I should do next week. This is a lifesaver in the middle of a crazy day.
- Be visible!! Especially at the start of the year, being available and all around the school made a huge difference. I got to know a lot of students and started building relationships early which was a huge help later on if there was a problem because I wasn’t a stranger and there was a level of comfort/familiarity already.
- Seek out a trustworthy person once you get your bearings to have as a sounding board. If there are none in your building look within the district.
- Make sure to take care of yourself. Even during the school day, take five minute quiet time, a walk, a journal, a cup of tea.
You might also want to check out our website for resources on the Role of School Social Workers. Some of these may come in handy to explain the services that you can provide, especially if you are starting a new position in the school.
Top Photo Credit: Jopwell Collection
Back to School Series
Click Here for links to web pages providing numerous ideas for your office, bulletin boards, messaging system, School Social Work "Must Haves", etc. (NYSSSWA Members Only)
Photo Credit: Dreamstime
Resources: NYSSSWA Membership Dollars At Work
The New York State School Social Workers’ Association (NYSSSWA) is the only professional association dedicated solely to the visibility and viability of School Social Workers in New York State. Members are essential to our ability to support you and our profession. If you are not a member, join us today so we can continue to provide advocacy and services on your behalf.
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