Supporting Student Growth Through Storytelling

Freddy the Seagull is more than a children's story; it is an opportunity to help students explore meaningful life lessons through the power of storytelling.

School counselors can use Freddy's story as a springboard for meaningful discussions, classroom lessons, and activities that encourage students to develop positive relationships, strengthen self-awareness, build resilience, and develop skills that support their success in and out of school.

The themes and messages within Freddy the Seagull align with several ASCA Student Standards. The following selected ASCA Student Standards connect to the themes and life lessons explored throughout the story and provide school counselors with opportunities to support students' personal, social, emotional, and academic growth.

Mindset Standards

M-1 Decision-making informed by gathering evidence, getting others' perspectives and recognizing personal bias.

Behavior Standards

Learning Strategies

B-LS 1 – Critical-thinking skills to make informed decisions.

B-LS 2 – Creative approach to learning, tasks and problem solving.

B-LS 9 – Decision-making informed by gathering evidence, getting others' perspectives and recognizing personal bias.

Self-Management Skills

B-SMS 6 – Ability to identify and overcome barriers.

B-SMS 7 – Effective coping skills.

B-SMS 10 – Ability to manage transitions and adapt to change.

Social Skills

B-SS 2 – Positive, respectful and supportive relationships with students who are similar to and different from them.

B-SS 3 – Positive relationships with adults to support success.

B-SS 8 – Advocacy skills for self and others and ability to assert self, when necessary.