Take a 60-second brain break to relieve stress and anxietyIt can be difficult to get students to open up, especially those in higher grades but we know how critical it is for wellbeing to be able to manage and release emotions. If you’re looking for fun stress relieving activities for students, I can guarantee that…
Teaching Kindness Changes the Classroom Community!Phrases like “random acts of kindness” and “pay it forward” have become popular terms in modern society. There are even special days dedicated to highlighting the importance of kindness and organizations who specialize in altruism. But why has it become so popular to teach kindness in schools? Perhaps that’s best explained…
Most children enjoy getting creative with pencils and crayons. But did you know there are impressive reasons beyond fun to encourage the use of mindful coloring pages for kids and adults?The significant benefits of mindful coloring pages are now being realized for all age groups as it takes its place alongside yoga and meditation as…
Kids who sit in the Hot Seat feel a boost in self-esteem and a real sense of belonging!This is a powerful friendship activity to use in the classroom any time a student is in need of some extra love and care or as a focus activity during International Day of Friendship. It’s one we’ve included in…
Art and music have been used for years in various forms of therapy due to their healing powers, but many people don’t understand how big a part they can play in boosting mental health and overall well-being. Not only do they promote wellness by giving an individual an outlet for stress and anxiety, but they…
I just love a funky little mind jar! They’re so easy to make but can have a powerful impact on children who are distracted or stressed. Also called calm down jars, they’re a wonderful visual aid for helping kids relax when they experience stress, anxiety, or are overwhelmed for any reason. Because they’re so effective,…
When one of your children, (student or biological) is hysterical because they’ve just had an accident or some sort of perceived trauma, what’s your first challenge? You need to understand what has happened, so you can soothe them. This of course is impossible if the child is blabbering and sobbing incomprehensibly. Your naturally wise self…
I’m not sure who the author is but the “Nails in the Fence” story packs quite a punch. It’s an impactful story that I recommend teachers share with their students. It will help kids of any age to see the damage they can cause if they lose control of their emotions. There once was a…
The older I get, the more I’m hearing people complain of a lack of joy and fulfillment in their lives. Personally, I think this is often caused by an imbalance in physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual needs. In other words, people are not allowing themselves the right amount of sleep, nutrition, exercise, work, security, intellectual…
Everyone has times when they feel overwhelmed by the direction their life is taking. The feeling that you’ve been chasing your dreams for far too long without the results you were expecting is all too common and can result in you wanting to give up. Emotions can run high during these times and outside pressures can…