Introducto-Patronum

Using fictional characters to get to know your students

At the beginning of the school year a counselor may be working with many students that they have not yet had a chance to build rapport with for many reasons. This is just one technique to get to know the needs of the students as well as to build the connection needed to help them.

To use this lesson, either in small group or classroom guidance I would dress up as the literary character I connect with: Harry Potter. As it happens I have such a costume on hand but if you do not there are a variety of cute ideas here: beginning of the year costume ideas 

As the group begins, introduce yourself as the school counselor and explain who you are dressed as for the occasion. I would then explain I chose Harry Potter because he is a brave leader who never gives up. This can be more or less elaborate depending on the grade level of students. After your introduction ask students to take a few moments and think about who they are most like, or would like to be like. 

After students have a chance to reflect you can have them complete a worksheet or do a go-around depending on group size. It could also be effective to have the students draw their character. Finally allow students the chance to present their final drawing or work to the group. 

This lesson allows you to get to know your kids better and also to get them thinking on who they are and where they would like to be.