Ever wonder why teachers still ask kids to tell about "My favorite part of summer vacation"? It turns out that the brain can’t process both fear and gratitude at the same time. So bringing back the fun memories takes the edge off kids' apprehension with the start of school. That relaxes their minds, preparing them to learn more effectively.
Gratitude can knock out fear, and appreciation can do the same for anger, with practice. No, I'm not suggesting that we ask them to list the good things about the other person or even understand how the other person feels--that's impossible for anyone gripped by anger. But helping them think of anything or anyone they enjoy might allow their brain can settle a bit, making problem solving a bit more realistic. Heartmath has researched the impact of appreciation on the brain and body. Check out their website. www.heartmath.org.
May we suggest some additional support as you work toward optimal learning…
Brain Coaching for Staff gives us a chance to stop and consider what the brain needs to do its best job. Basic information about the brain gives us the background we need to know why movement, social learning, multiple intelligences and emotional factors impact learning. During an in-service we can find ways to add movement to classroom experiences, plan for social learning, and provide for multiple intelligences.
As you set up parent education opportunities, please consider Brain Coaching for Parents. Busy families want to get the school year off to a good start. Brain Coaching provides practical neuroscience to help them understand why sleep, nutrition, social support, exercise, and down time affect children’s ability to learn and make good choices.
Please contact me at www.ourbrainbuddies.com to set up a light hearted brown-bag lunch discussion or interactive evening program for parents or an in-service for your staff.
Also, please join me at NWEA for Brain Coaching sectionals on Thursday, October 9: Movement in the Classroom (T2-06) and Social Learning (T3-24) in room 1855. Joining this blog will earn you a special reward when you check in with me there!
© Sandra Sunquist Stanton MS, NCC, LPC, Connections of the Heart LLC
For additional articles and information, visit www.ourbrainbuddies.com or send an email sandi@ourbrainbuddies.com