Examines percentage of articles on developmental and remedial guidance in Elementary School Guidance and Counseling (ESG&C). Although the literature reveals a continuing interest in theoretical discussion and practical applications of a developmental perspective in elementary school guidance programs, most articles are failing to document the…

Suggests strategies to guide elementary school counselors who are implementing developmental guidance programs. These include sharing the responsibility with teachers, targeting populations and students, reaching the largest number of students possible, mobilizing peer facilitators, managing counselor time, and being accountable. (ABL)

Presents research completed on developmental group guidance meetings. Presents an example of how counselors can document and evaluate the positive reactions their students have to well-organized, weekly group sessions. Provides direction for changes in the group guidance program. (ABB)

Describes dilemma discussion approach used in 10-session program, based largely on cognitive-developmental theory, that is aimed at helping middle school students progress in their reasoning about using drugs. Ways in which the program provides students with opportunities to examine their current reasoning on drug use, consider peer perspectives,…

Presents a two-tiered developmental guidance classroom unit on parental divorce which acquaints children with the idea of divorce as a family change. Focuses on the needs of the children coping with parental divorce. Discusses results which appear to have a positive effect on child's depression, attitudes and belief about parental divorce and…

Offers suggestions for organizing school counseling and guidance programs. Addresses the issues of needs assessment, counselor role, and teacher and community involvement. Identifies basic structural and organizational components for programs. (ABB)

There is a time when every adult and most children are faced with the death of a close friend or relative. Understanding can be established through developmental counseling programs at various age levels. The seventh-grade program discussed here can help counselors develop successful approaches for their own students. (Author)

Describes a developmental guidance curriculum on transition for grades six, seven, and eight. Provides the background, methodology, and some of the children's responses to the material, which consists of units on awareness, understanding, and challenge. Includes a list of children's stories on transitions. (JAC)

The developmental play (DP) approach enhances developmental and expressive communication through intense interaction between the child and significant adults. Children are encouraged to become aware of and to express feelings through play experiences and activities with adult partners. DP offers promise to those who work with dysfunctioning…

Fantasy has proven successful in counseling situations in elementary schools. It can reduce fears, lower tension and test anxiety, inhibit acting-out behavior, bypass emotional blocks, help children find alternative behaviors, improve self-concept, elicit self-disclosure, and stimulate creativity. (Author)

Although the general attitude toward Magic Circle was positive, there was sufficient dissatisfaction by students with the Human Development Program to question the appropriateness of the program for all students. Student attitudes, interests, and motivations can play a major role in the success or failure of these activities. (Author)

Notes that, in working with prekindergarten children, elementary counselors may integrate such therapeutic approaches as play techniques, affective education, behavior modification, bibliotherapy, relaxation training, and family counseling. Focuses on benefits of developmental play counseling and affective education with young children. (NB)

The counselor, facilitating classroom development guidance lessons, may experience conflict and difficulty. The management system presented here allows for flexibility and provides sufficient behavioral structure, while encouraging individual expression from students. This behavioral management approach is supportive of, but secondary to,…

Gestalt approaches serve as a valuable tool for psychological education. They serve to enhance self-awareness and responsibility. Gestalt approaches can enliven a curriculum and promote self-understanding. Exercises are presented. (Author)

Discusses the philosophical and practical aspects of developmental guidance and counseling in the public schools. Reviews the role of heredity in human behavior with implications for counselors. Suggests counseling should relate to what a child can do, not what he/she should be able to do. (JAC)