As we returned to school this year, Christine and Julia wanted to teach the children about the importance of reflection and completing the stress cycle. This summer, after reading “Burnout: the secret to unlocking the stress cycle, by: E Nagoski, PhD” Christine has learned the importance of taking care of our mental health and ways we can promote wellbeing in our classroom.
The early years are an important time for children to learn about recognizing their emotions and appropriate outlets to manage their feelings.
One important way to help children feel less stressed is by following a routine. We have always had our routine of going outside then coming inside and having our snack. This year to form a smoother transition to coming inside we have provided the children with their own journals. The expectation is that when we come inside the children get their journal and reflect on anything from the day. They are encouraged to write a brief sentence or paragraph including: who, what, where, when and why. Some children find drawing a picture in their journal works best for them.
The process of coming inside from high energy activities then sitting down to have some time to reflect works for destimulating helping the children to be calmer in the classroom. The children have been told we will not read their entries so they can write about frustrations if needed. They must sit with their journal for 5 minutes minimum to ensure they complete the practice.
The first few times bringing out our journals some children really didn’t want to participate saying it was “like school”. They were encouraged to write or draw anything positive from their day or even to release frustration about any negative situation. Being told they could even just draw a picture of their thoughts was reassuring to them that their journal is nothing to stress about and can act as a listening ear.
Some children have shown a new found love for journaling. There are a few who will sit for upwards of 20 minutes writing in their journals. Hopefully we can find a few more ways to practice wellness in our transition from outside. The few children who are not keen on journaling may enjoy a short relaxation exercise or yoga practice.
We would love to hear about any self regulation and self care you and your children enjoy at home! Feel free to share via email or through conversation at pick up or drop off.
