The 2022/2023 school year is around the corner…

(Quite literally… NEXT WEEK! At least here in Canada… :P)

So, let’s get all you Educators out there motivated and ready to practice mindful moments this upcoming school year!

(Future you and your students will thank you for it!)

Are you ready…?

Time.

There just never seems to be enough of it.

Especially in a teacher’s day.

Always asking:

“How can I find the time?”

And understandably so…

Teachers have an extensive list of to-do’s!

An extensive, never-ending list…

HOW can we make time for Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is critical for students’ success, emotional intelligence, and for building life skills.

Mindfulness is essential for teachers’ success, peace of mind, and to prevent burnout.

So, where do we find the time?!

I have the answer for you!

Here are 5 EFFORTLESS Ways to Add Mindfulness into Your Classroom TODAY:

Greet Students at the Door with Gratitude

Many teachers greet their students at the door each morning. Instead of just saying hi… add a fun “Question of the Day” element by asking kids “What are you grateful for?” before entering. Not only is it a fun way to practice mindful gratitude, you’ll also learn more about your students’ lives!
Take a Belly Breath In Between Classes

When switching from Math to Science, or English to Social, take a quick moment to pause for a breath. Have students place their hands on their bellies and take one big deep collective breath together. Remind them they are breathing out the previous activity to make room for the next!
Self Check-In’s

First thing in the morning and at the end of the day, set a 30 second timer and have your students do a quick self check-in. Have students close their eyes (if comfortable) or gaze softly at a spot on the ground. Ask them to pay attention to any thoughts they are having, emotions that come up, or sensations in their body. Remind them not to place judgment on what comes up. Just notice it.
Tapping Before a Test

Before a test or any difficult assignment/activity, take 30-60 seconds to do a little tapping. Tapping is a wonderful way to decrease stress, it helps your students get into the right mindset before any nerve wracking activity. A quick minute is all you need. You can lead it or put on a tapping for kids youtube video! Try tapping in combination with positive affirmations too.
Warm Up for Gym with Yoga or Mindful Stretching

Gym is already part of the curriculum. And we already talk about the importance of stretching with our kids. Moving forward, add the mindful element to your stretching practice before beginning your gym class. Remind kids to stay focused and quiet. To pay attention to their bodies and the sensations from each stretch.