Is it possible that kids are just as busy, just as stressed out, and in as much need of relaxing, unplugging & disconnecting as adults? The answer is a resounding YES. Starting at a very early age, children are on a schedule. They wake up to an alarm, quickly eat breakfast, get ready for school, hurry up to catch the bus, and slide into their seat – barely beating the bell. The rest of their day is more of the same, moving from class to class, assignment to assignment with homework building as the day goes on.
Very much like adults, they are also plugged in and connected at all times. With laptops, ipads, cellphones, video games & various other interactive electronics being an essential part of learning today, kids also need dedicated time to unplug & disconnect from the world and reconnect with themselves.
In a recent 8 week long course on self-leadership with Cajon Valley Middle School here in California I began and ended each class with 3 minutes of silence and breath-work with the students.
While unsure what to think of the process, and of me in the beginning, after a few weeks the kids walked in the door asking if we were going to have quiet time today.
The students gave feedback that it calmed them, helped them focus, allowed them to slow down, made them feel better and for some – made them uncomfortable. Teaching kids how to focus their energy, direct their attention & simply be present and breathe promotes learning as well as having a calming effect.
Try this:
• Ask for all books/writing utensils etc. to be pushed to the center of the table
• Ask for eyes closed (or just heads down) – no talking
• Set your watch for 3 minutes (or start with 1 minute and build)
• Practice this silence with the kids
• At the end of the 3 minutes lead and teach the kids to take 3 full deep breaths (you may find that kids have trouble breathing deep, break down each inhale & exhale)
Practice this at the beginning of every class – over time you will have a room full of more focused, calm and directed students. Best of all, you will have given them the opportunity to slow down, disconnect & be present.
Natalie is a naturally positive and energetic coach, speaker and transformational leadership development expert. She believes in a few simple truths when it comes to making things happen in your life. It starts with owning, knowing and developing who you are and continues with making sure that you are as healthy as possible in mind, body & soul. As a certified strength & conditioning specialist & Registered Yoga teacher she is able to blend her skills in classroom training with those that transform the body. She is dedicated to a life of developing & serving others and believes that starts with our youth.
Learn more about Natalie at www.nataliepeterson.net
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