JEC students love going to Lunch Bunch! As part of the continuous effort to strengthen the social fabric of the student body, Dr. Rebecca Mischel, JEC’s director of guidance, runs a series of informal Lunch Bunch programs throughout the year. At each Lunch Bunch, a small group of students are invited to join Dr. Mischel in her office for lunch, conversation and some fun games. These lunchtime sessions provide an opportunity for students to interact with one another and strengthen their friendships in a small, structured setting. Most second graders have had a turn and the third graders are excitedly awaiting their own invites.

This year, the Lunch Bunch programs are focused on helping each child develop their self-esteem and sense of self. Each Lunch Bunch begins with the students writing down three things about themselves that they are proud of. The students then share what they wrote and encourage each other’s strengths.

As a follow up to each Lunch Bunch session, parents are encouraged to talk with their child about why they are proud of themselves, reinforcing the importance of actively working on increasing self-esteem and self-confidence.