Mind Full or Mindful?

Tips for Cultivating a Connected Classroom of Self-Regulated Learners

The terms mindfulness and social and emotional well-being are becoming more and more prominent in our school system. Anxiety, pressure, and unstructured free time affect teachers and students, K-12. Studies show that people who consistently practice mindfulness and meditation show an increase in thickening the cerebral cortex - The area in charge of thinking, processing, and emotions. 

With the use of websites and apps, incorporating this practice into your classroom can be done with convenience! I challenge you to incorporate these simple apps and techniques into your classroom to see if anxiety lessens and a calmer environment is cultivated - For you and your students.

Smiling Mind

Clear. Calm. Content.

This free meditation app is developed for people of all ages, but has specific sessions to target students. Separated by age and topics, teachers or students can easily navigate through it to find what suits their personal needs. 

Mindful Powers

Mindful Powers, available in Meraki, walks students through a designated calming task which gives students the ability to regain focus, slow-down, and de-stress. The play-reward concept allows students to feel a sense of accomplishment, while mindfulness meditation is taking place. 

Try it for yourself! 

The New York Times - How to Meditate

The New York Times article, linked above, offers simple tips on getting started with mindfulness. Scroll to the bottom to find meditation practices of all lengths and times of day, including mindful walking, eating, and sleeping. 

Nearpod

Within the Nearpod Lesson Library, teachers have access to many developed lessons. In the category, "Social Emotional Learning", take some time to explore different interactive options to use with your students! 

I hope everyone has a mindful week!

Tweet your mindfulness practice and brain breaks to @GCISDInTech or @EdTechKars!