Positive affirmations are a powerful tool that promote positive self-talk. They are self-esteem boosters and anxiety reducers that lead to improved well-being for both children and adults. Of course, this makes them a great addition to any classroom—especially for kiddos who struggle with confidence or may not receive much positivity at home. Examples of positive affirmations include: I am enough….
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Ideas for Using Positive Affirmations in Your Classroom
Helping Students Manage Test Anxiety and Build Confidence
The average American student in a big-city public school sits for 112 mandatory standardized tests between pre-kindergarten and the end of 12th grade. That’s about eight high-stakes tests every year, accounting for 20-25 hours per school year. In some states, failing these exams means delaying promotion to the next grade or even graduation. It’s no wonder today’s students have been…
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Concrete Ways to Help Students Cope with a Tragic Event
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure here. Educators are trained to plan lessons, manage classroom behaviors, differentiate instruction for diverse learners, assess student learning, and much more. Educators are not usually trained to help students heal after tragic and traumatic events. They are not mental health professionals, counselors, or social workers. Yet with increasing frequency, teachers…
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How Yoga Instruction Teaches Kids More Than Just Yoga
School-based yoga programs are sweeping the nation, and studies show that students of all ages are reaping major benefits. Of course, you may be thinking, “These kids need to learn math, not downward-facing dog!” But by investing even 30 minutes a week in yoga for kids, you are: Teaching vital life skills Helping children feel calm Improving behavior and academics…
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The Top 5 Ways to Encourage Positive Self-Talk in Your Students
How many of your bad days were exacerbated by your own thoughts about the days events? Have you ever tried explicitly reframing negative thoughts about yourself or a particular situation? Could you ever use a positive self-talk boost? I remember driving through the Costco parking lot looking for a spot one Saturday last December. I know, who goes to Costco…
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