Mindfulness – Teacher Talk

Many studies suggest that children lost about 35% of a normal school year’s worth of learning during the pandemic. One can imagine how that impacts both the students and the teachers. So many teachers are reporting that they are frustrated and have feelings of overwhelm.

A study by the National Institute of Mental Health looked at how kids living through the pandemic and the shutdowns were affected both psychologically and biologically. The results weren’t surprising that these adolescents suffered significant stress and uncertainty and that the overall mental health of these students was greatly impacted.

Teachers are in a vulnerable spot – not only do they have students who are not up to the normal standards academically, but they are facing students who are full of anxiety and stress. There are some programs available to help teachers, such as task forces who evaluate “anxiety screenings” for ages 8 to 18, as well as “depression screenings” for ages 12 to 18. In addition, there are training programs to help teachers and staff to help students in distress. Classroom WISE (Well-Being Information and Strategies for Educators) is one such free resource library that is available.

Another useful tool is to add mindfulness and deep breathing to your routine inside and outside the classroom. Research indicates that these exercises can greatly reduce stress and anxiety.

College Credit Connection also offers courses that address classroom management, information on ADD, and the brain. Some of these courses are as follows:

Classroom Management: Managing Challenging Behavior

Classroom Management: Building Effective Relationships

Lost at School: Kids with Behavioral Challenges

Healing ADD

Healing Anxiety and Depression

Understanding The Brain and Behavior

and many more.

Browse through the course offerings to find more. The added bonus is that you can gain college credit for these professional development courses!

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