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Mindfulness benefits both teachers and students by fostering focus, calmness, and resilience. For teachers, practicing mindfulness can reduce stress and improve classroom management. For students, it helps with emotional regulation and focus.
What is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness involves focusing on the present moment without judgment. It’s about being fully engaged with what you’re doing, whether it’s teaching a lesson or listening to a student.
Techniques to try:
Mindful breathing: Start class with a two-minute guided breathing exercise.
Grounding exercises: Encourage students to notice five things they can see, four they can touch, etc., to refocus.
Mindful breaks: Incorporate short pauses between activities.
With regular practice, mindfulness creates a more positive, productive classroom environment.
Benefits in Education
Mindfulness has gained traction as a tool for reducing stress and improving focus in schools. For teachers, mindfulness offers a way to stay calm amid chaos; for students, it enhances emotional regulation and learning.
For Teachers: Reduced stress, better classroom management, and increased job satisfaction.
For Students: Improved attention spans, reduced anxiety, and stronger social-emotional skills.
Mindfulness Practices
Breathing Exercises: Start each class with a two-minute deep breathing session to center everyone.
Mindful Listening: During discussions, encourage active listening and reflection.
Guided Visualization: Use relaxation scripts to help students imagine peaceful settings.
Consistency is key. Regular mindfulness practice fosters a calmer, more focused classroom environment.
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© Gaynor Clarke, December 2024
Gaynor Clarke
B.Ed (Teaching), Cert Tertiary Teaching, PGDip Ed, MEd Leadership
Reach. Teach. Lead.
Reach Education Ltd
Teacher Leadership Mentoring and Life Coaching. Personal and Professional Development.
Gaynor is a teacher educator and mentor facilitating personal & professional leadership wellbeing outcomes for teachers.
If you are an early childhood teacher or leader looking to enhance your leadership skills, I would love to work with you. As a leadership mentor and coach, I specialize in helping early childhood educators develop their leadership potential and make a positive impact for the ākonga they serve. If you are interested in learning more about my leadership mentoring services, please visit my website or contact me directly to schedule a consultation. I would love to work with you!
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