Junior Counselor Role Cards

Use these role cards to guide you as a junior counselor. Read each card carefully and think about how you can bring these qualities to life. In the “My Additional Tips” section, write your own ideas for making each role even more helpful.

1. The Greeter

Responsibilities:

• Welcome Pre-K buddies with a friendly smile and wave
• Say their name and introduce yourself clearly
• Make eye contact and use a warm tone

Tips:

• Stand near the entrance or welcome area so children see you first
• Bend down to their level when you speak
• Use simple, positive phrases like “Good morning!” or “I’m so glad you’re here.”

My Additional Tips:

2. The Guide

Responsibilities:

• Help Pre-K students find key locations (classroom, restroom, cafeteria)
• Give clear, step-by-step directions
• Stay by their side until they feel comfortable going alone

Tips:

• Use landmarks (e.g., “We’ll turn left at the tall blue locker.”)
• Walk at their pace and point out interesting sights
• Check in: “Do you know where to go now?”

My Additional Tips:

3. The Friend

Responsibilities:

• Listen to worries or questions and respond with kindness
• Sit or kneel to chat at their eye level
• Share fun facts or hobbies to build rapport

Tips:

• Ask open-ended questions: “What’s your favorite game?”
• Show empathy: “I remember feeling nervous on my first day, too.”
• Offer to include them in a group activity or game

My Additional Tips:

4. The Problem-Solver

Responsibilities:

• Recognize when a Pre-K student is upset or confused
• Offer simple solutions or find an adult helper if needed
• Encourage calm words and actions

Tips:

• Use calming phrases: “Let’s take a deep breath together.”
• Offer choices: “Would you like to draw or read a book?”
• Know when to get help: “Let’s find Ms. Lee for more support.”

My Additional Tips:

5. The Safety Monitor

Responsibilities:

• Watch for potential hazards (tripping, running in halls)
• Gently remind Pre-K buddies of rules (walking feet, indoor voices)
• Report any serious concerns to a teacher or staff member

Tips:

• Use friendly reminders: “Remember, we walk inside the building.”
• Position yourself where you can see most of the hallway or play area
• Praise safe choices: “Great job holding the handrail!”

My Additional Tips:

Pre-K Welcome Booklet

Welcome to Pre-K! Use these scenarios to practice welcoming and supporting your Pre-K buddies. Read each situation, then write how you would respond as a junior counselor. When role-playing, refer to your Orientation Checklist for extra guidance.

Scenario 1: First-Day Jitters

Description:
Your Pre-K buddy is standing at the classroom door with tears in their eyes and says, “I miss my mom.”

What would you say or do to help them feel safe and welcome?

Scenario 2: Finding the Bathroom

Description:
Your buddy looks around nervously and whispers, “I don’t know where the bathroom is.”

How would you give clear directions and calm their nerves?

Scenario 3: Lunchtime Confusion

Description:
In the cafeteria, your Pre-K friend is unsure where to sit and seems overwhelmed by the noise.

What steps would you take to guide them and make lunchtime easier?

Scenario 4: Lost Belonging

Description:
Your buddy realizes their backpack is missing and looks upset.

How could you help them stay calm and find their belongings or an adult helper?

Scenario 5: Playground Worries

Description:
During recess, your buddy watches others play but seems too shy to join in and says, “I’m scared.”

How would you encourage them to participate and feel included?

After writing your responses, pair up with a classmate to role-play each scenario. Practice using a warm tone, clear instructions, and empathy to support your Pre-K friends.

Orientation Checklist

Use this checklist during your scenario role-plays. Check each box when you complete the step.

• Warm Greeting
  • Introduce yourself by name
    
  • Smile and make eye contact
    
• Clear Communication
  • Use simple words and short sentences
    
  • Speak in a calm, friendly tone
    
• Active Listening
  • Face your buddy and give them your full attention
    
  • Let them finish speaking before you respond
    
• Direction & Guidance
  • Give step-by-step instructions
    
  • Use landmarks, gestures, and check for understanding
    
• Empathy & Support
  • Acknowledge feelings (e.g., “I understand you feel…”)
    
  • Offer simple choices to help them feel in control
    
• Safety & Rules
  • Remind walking feet and indoor voices
    
  • Stay close in busy areas and watch for hazards
    
• Positive Reinforcement
  • Praise their effort and bravery (e.g., “Great job!”)
    
  • Encourage trying new activities
    
• Seek Help When Needed
  • Know which adult to ask for help (teacher or staff)
    
  • Get assistance if the situation feels too big to handle alone
    

Notes: