The Tibetan Singing Bowl gives off a sound that is very hard to describe. However, it starts out loud but pleasant sound and then as the sound gets lower so does the stress from the day. When I hear the sound, my body starts to relax starting with my mind it’s not that it shuts down, but it focuses. My eyes are closed but once they open, they seem more focused. I can feel the tenseness in my fingers and toes release.
The above excerpt describes a graduate students’...
I begin each class with a brief meditation. Using a Tibetan Singing Bowl, I invite students to listen to the sound of the bowl as it drops off then to drop in on their breathing. Just listen to how the breath flows in and out.
The “micro” meditation lasts a few minutes at the most but seems to make all the difference. Instead of rushing into the learning process, we ease into, flow into it more gently, we slow down to go faster.
Starting class with meditation allows them...
The end of the year is quickly approaching! This is such an exciting time for everyone. The thought of sleeping in, hanging out by the pool, taking a late night walk or a long fun family vacation is weighing on everyone’s mind. Here are some things to do to finish out the year strong!
1. Have everyone bring in a pillowcase. With a paint marker in the middle of the pillow you will write:
Now I lay me down to sleep,
I count these hands...
After a school year ended, I always reflected on what I could have done better. Even though I thought I knew my students well, I could have always known them better. From the moment they enter the classroom a teacher is trying to get to know the family, the student academically, the background they bring with them, issues, problems, struggles, likes, dislikes and ultimately what will help a student succeed. A teacher sets up the classroom environment and differentiates activities that will...
Through my years of teaching I encountered 3 principals and 3-4 administrators. They were each so different and inspired me in many ways. There were rules, expectations “buy-ins,” situations and opportunities for me to learn. I had always aspired to be an administrator so my first principal position was one of my favorites. I want to share with you some of the things I did, that I learned from my supportive administrators. The goal for me was to always support, engage, encourage and let...
Each month as an educator, it is important for teachers to reflect on his or her classroom practices and the how and whys of what we do. April is Autism Awareness month and this is such a special time, because as teachers and leaders we should self-reflect on things we can do better or differently to help all children-including children with autism-succeed. High expectations for all students are vital. In classrooms today, teachers must differentiate for all students and include each...
Every summer I tried to prioritize what I was going to do to get ready for the next school year. I wanted my classroom to be engaging, fun, inviting and a place that I wanted to be each day. This will give you ideas on things you can do this summer to refresh for the fall And Prepare for a fantastic first week of school!