As educators and parents, the beginning of the school year can be a stressful time, full with planning, planning, planning … doing, doing, doing. What if there were a toolkit that could help us ease back into the classroom with confidence and a sense of calm? There is! Read more ›
Legislation passed this summer in Oregon will allow students five excusable mental health days in a three-month period. In Utah, permissible illnesses were expanded in 2018 to include mental illnesses in addition to physical illnesses.
The data shows a sizable number of U.S. students could benefit if other states pass similar laws. Read more ›
School counselors, along with school social workers, may be children’s only access to some form of mental health care, since it’s estimated that only 20 percent of children with mental or behavioral disorders receive help from a mental health care provider. Read more ›
This experiential workshop is based on the book Do Your OMMWork!, which focuses on stress for our kids today and how we can guide them to relieve stress, discover their unique gifts, live with purpose and reach their potential. Presenter Kathi Donnelly demonstrates how to implement breathing/self care techniques to regulate emotions, release anxiety and manage daily stressors from school, home, competition, media, and social pressures. Read more ›
It’s not uncommon for kids to complain of abdominal pain around the start of the school year, before a big test, sports game or performance — when their stress and anxiety levels can be at an all-time high. Read more ›
In my work with teachers, I encourage honest, fearless contemplation on what is and is not working in the classroom. This simple exercise can help you discover the mundane moments and tasks in your own classroom that are just waiting for your creativity to transform them into mindful learning opportunities. Read more ›
For many kids, sitting still all day in school is a big challenge, which is why movement breaks are good practice, whether it’s in elementary school or high school. Additionally, learning science shows us that movement activates the brain and improves cognition. Read more ›
A new study suggests that mindfulness education — lessons on techniques to calm the mind and body — can reduce the negative effects of stress and increase students’ ability to stay engaged, helping them stay on track academically and avoid behavior problems. Read more ›
Dr. Sharon Saline, author of What Your ADHD Child Wishes You Knew, is a psychotherapist who works with children diagnosed with ADHD and their families. She argues that an informed empathy for ADHD children — for what they experience on a daily basis — can inspire parents and teachers to work with these children in ways that will help them grow into responsible and happy adults. Read more ›
An important aspect of developing Executive Functioning (EF) skills is the ability to manage oneself and one’s behavior.
This session covers EF and the relationship of the mind and body in developing self-awareness. Learn strategies to increase self-monitoring and self-regulation in kids with EF challenges. Read more ›
