Squirmy

My counseling intern and I were brainstorming how to address some "squirmy" Kindergartner's who have a very difficult time staying in one spot and focused. We tried a lesson on self-regulation but that seemed a bit over their heads, and frankly not what they need. They need to practice being mindful - present, focused and relaxed. 

We have decided to introduce the concept of mindfulness by reading Squirmy Learns to be Mindful by Joree Rosenblatt, M.A. This adorable book helps begin teaching what mindfulness is and how we practice this skill. 

"Bella couldn't wait to become a butterfly! She soon earned the nickname "Squirmy" from her mother because of her squirmy, impatient energy. Even when she was a tiny egg, Squirmy was bored and restless. Her mother kept reminder her that constantly wishing for what's next makes it difficult to enjoy what is happening right now! The she learned little tricks that would help her become more calm, focused and grateful. Soon, Squirmy relied that being mindful was easy to do , but tough to remember to do. So she kept practicing. Later, Squirmy began a very beautiful transformation and being mindful helped her make it through with a big smile."

Each week after reading about Squirmy, we will be practicing being mindful. We will be using mindfulness activities from Cosmic Kids Zen Den on YouTube to help practice. I like the videos on Zen Den because they are shorter in length making it attainable for Kindergartner's to complete successfully. My hope is that over time, our little buddies are able to focus their bodies and minds on learning in the classroom.

Body Regulation

There is an increased need to teach children how to regulate their bodies. Social/emotional issues are on the rise and mental health professionals are doing what we can to support students who are struggling, not only in the school system, but in their daily lives. 

One way to help students learn self-regulation is through yoga, mindfulness and guided relaxation. These exercises can help students with many social/emotional struggles, such as:

• Anxiety
• Anger
• Depression
• Focus/concentration
• Confidence

I have found that many children struggle with just sitting still or laying and relaxing. Many children are going a mile a minute and have not learned the skills of slowing down and just being with themselves. Let's be honest, many adults struggle with the same things. 

I have found some YouTube channels that focus on yoga, mindfulness and guided relaxation FOR KIDS!!!!! Jaime at Cosmic Kids has done an amazing job of putting together some exercises that capture the attention of children while teaching vital self-regulatory strategies. 

You will find links below to Cosmic Kids Yoga, Cosmic Kids Zen Den (mindfulness) and Cosmic Kids Peace Out (guided relaxation).  I highly recommend these activities for any children you work with. I love them so much that I use them at home with my own children! 

Check them out!

Yoga

Mindfulness

Guided Relaxation

Huge Apologies!!!

I would like to apologize to everyone who follows my blog. I have had rough school year and have not posted in a long time. Not to air my dirty laundry, but I lost my mom a few months ago. I have been trying to keep myself together for my family and work. I haven't done the best job but I am determined to get back into the swing.

I will start posting weekly tips of things that have worked for me as well as some weekly thoughts. I hope you stay with me as I get back to blogging!!!

First thought of the week...
Take care of YOURSELF!!! As counselors, we take care of other people and support their mental health and often over look our own mental health. Don't be afraid to take a break. That is what I have been doing to regain my mental health so that I can be the most effective with others. Do things for yourself like exercise, read a good book, take a walk, snuggle with a pet, etc.

I love yoga and have recently restarted a routine. It is so great for centering and calming your mind and spirit. My son has even joined in. We call it, "7 o'clock yoga time." He is very disappointed if we have to miss it. (He has ADHD so this really helps him learn to focus on his body and the here and now.

Whatever you enjoy doing for yourself, make it a priority!

YOU DESERVE IT AND ARE WORTH IT!!!!!

Calming Tool

I feel like my mind never shuts off to what may help my students. So, while shopping at Home Depot, I spotted these bendy looking things. My kids and I all grabbed them and began twisting and bending. These little things are awesome! My next thought was how I could use them in my counseling program. I bought 4 at $1.00ish a piece to give them a try at school. Needless to say, I just went back and bought a 12 pack for $19.99. The kiddos at school love them and they really do the trick when someone is upset. They fit into a pocket so you can always have one on hand. The pack that I bought has various sizes. I highly recommend these cheap little calming tools!

Guided Relaxation and Tension Reduction for Kids

I reposting this because I found a better way to upload the video.  This is a relaxation and tension reduction video for KIDS.  The kiddos I work with have really done well with it.  Use it at school or at home with your own kiddos.  Enjoy!

Calm and Relaxing

I have been searching for decent guided relaxation audio/video for kids.  What I have found is that I like bits and parts of each of them but have not found one that I like in its entirety.  Since I work with such a wide range of age levels, I was looking for one that would work for everyone.  As I was talking with my new intern the other day, she mentioned that I should just make one myself.  DUH!  So I went to work in my bedroom (away from noisy children and husband) and came up with a short guided relaxation audio/video for kids.

I would love some feedback on how it sounds and please be honest (but not mean).  Is it too hokey?  Too short?  Silly?

What do you think????

https://www.dropbox.com/s/fvov7yp373vgvo8/2013-01-13%2018.20.11.mov