“Creativity requires the courage to let go of certainties.” – Erich Fromm

We often hesitate to try new things because of the fear of failure. This week’s lesson encourages students to see the value in experimenting, using their creativity, and exploring new ideas. In younger stages of life, their thinking is still very concrete, but they are beginning to look outward with curiosity and a growing sense of possibility. The goal is to help students realize that creativity is essential to pursuing their dreams—because if we want different outcomes, we must be willing to take new approaches.

Trying something unfamiliar—whether it’s reading a different type of book, learning about a new topic, or attempting a new activity—strengthens the brain and builds confidence. Middle school students often find it difficult to connect creativity with long-term goals, but applying imagination to real-life challenges is one of the most powerful tools for achieving success. As students move into high school, they sometimes begin to limit their creative potential, so this lesson is a reminder that creativity supports problem-solving, innovation, confidence, and resilience.

When students embrace creativity, they also discover healthier ways to express emotions, reduce stress, and direct their energy toward meaningful goals. Creativity becomes not just an outlet, but a pathway to turning dreams into reality.

Mindset Mondays will be offered every Monday that school is in session. This year, we are working through Course 2, continuing our journey through the 7 Mindsets curriculum. One of my favorite things about the 7 Mindsets is that it continues to provide new and different information each year. I look forward to seeing your students as we explore the Everything is Possible mindset together!

Mindset Mondays are taught on Zoom each Monday that school is in session. Zoom links are provided below, available on the Event Calendar in the Nest, and through your student’s Clever dashboard.

You will find the class times below. Classes are arranged by grade levels as follows:

Grades K-2: 9:30 am Zoom Link

Grades 3-5: 10:30 am Zoom Link

Grades 6-12: 11:30 am Zoom Link

The lessons are approximately 45 minutes long and designed to be interactive group lessons; however, because we recognize the importance of students attending comfortably, each student may choose their level of participation in the lesson.

“A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality.” -Yoko Ono

Each lesson includes an engaging slideshow, video, and activity. Click on the link that matches your student’s age or grade. You’ll find a fun icebreaker, a video lesson, and some discussion questions you can use to invite your students into conversation. There’s also an activity to bring the idea alive in your student’s life. Have fun connecting and learning that Everything is Possible!

Grades: K-2
Grades: 3-5
Grades: Middle School
Grades: High School

Mindful Moments are Back!

This year, I’m excited to offer Mindful Moments classes in person a few times each month! Just like last year, we’ll enjoy mindful movement together—but this year, we’ll also be incorporating games, music, fitness and stretching, and other fun activities to help us move, connect, and recharge. All Cottonwood students are welcome to join, and parents are encouraged to jump in, too!

Upcoming Mindful Moments:

Wednesday at Woodbridge Park, Roseville, on September 17 at 10 am

Classes are open to all grade levels. If your student is in the younger grades, please plan to support their participation as needed. A few mats will be available to borrow, though students are encouraged to bring their own, along with water and comfortable movement attire.

Check the Cottonwood Chronicle for future park days where we will have Mindful Moments. You can find all the Park Day Schedules on the Nest in the Family Liaisons section.
No registration required—just come as you are!

This month, we’re introducing Analog Bags—tech-free collections of simple activities you can create at home to spark joy, creativity, and connection. Many of our teachers and staff are making their own, and we invite families to join in too! Analog Bags are an easy way to encourage reflection, problem-solving, and screen-free presence for all ages.

The Let Grow Experience empowers students to build independence and confidence through monthly challenges. Each month, we share a new opportunity for families to explore together, helping students develop important life skills.

September’s project is all about stretching independence. Students are encouraged to try something new on their own—big or small—that helps them step outside their comfort zone. For younger kids, it might be chalk art or making lunch. By first or second grade, it could be walking to a friend’s house or playing at the park. As they grow, the challenges can too—like shopping for ingredients and baking a cake. Each step toward independence builds confidence and growth!

You can find more information and resources on the Parent Nest!

Email SELF@cottonwoodk12.org for submissions and questions.