In every classroom, students bring more than backpacks and notebooks. They also bring their feelings, stress, and life experiences.

As we know, these things can affect how students learn and behave. When students feel overwhelmed, it can be hard for them to focus, participate in activities, or get along with others. Because of this, helping students manage their emotions is just as important as helping them learn things like math and reading.

One helpful way educators can do this is by focusing on connection and calm. Connection and calm (i.e., mindfulness) focus on simple, research-based strategies that help students regulate their emotions and return to learning.

Stress and the Classroom 

Stress plays a significant role in student behavior. The American Psychological Association explains that stress is the “body’s emotional, physical, or behavioral response to changes in our environment”. In today’s world, stress is often considered a bad thing. However, stress can actually help us at times; it can help individuals to spring into action or help us stay motivated. But keep in mind that too much stress, especially over a long period of time, can make it hard for our students to manage their emotions, stay focused, and learn.

When students feel stressed, they often show it through their behavior. Educators may notice signs like: 

These behaviors can be signs that a student’s body and brain are overwhelmed. Stress doesn’t just affect the individual student—it also influences the entire classroom environment.

Because of this, it is important to help students learn ways to calm their bodies and brains. When we teach these skills, we help to create a classroom environment where students feels supported and ready to learn.

The Benefits of Mindfulness in Schools  

(Calm) 

Mindfulness is one way teachers can help create connection and calm in the classroom. Mindfulness helps students focus on what is happening right now. It also helps them notice their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Research shows that mindfulness can help students in many ways, including: 

These activities take less than a minute but can make a big difference in how students feel. 

P.S. Check out this blog post for detailed instructions on engaging in breathing exercises.

Movement as a Regulation Tool 

Movement is another great way to help students manage their energy and attention. When students move their bodies, they release built-up energy and often feel more focused. 

Short movement breaks might include: 

Movement breaks can be especially helpful during transitions, after students have been sitting for a long time, or when they seem restless or distracted.

Visual Supports and Tools 

Visual supports aid students in recognizing and naming their emotions. They also support student autonomy, as students can use visual supports to choose what type of activity they want to use to calm themselves. 

Examples include:

• Mindfulness collages

• Emotion charts

• Calm-down choice boards

• Calming corners

  • Calming corners are quiet spaces where students can take a break, use calming tools, and reset before returning to their work.

    • Items like fidgets, breathing visuals, or soft seating can help make the space comfortable and inviting. However, educators need to clearly teach students when and how to use this space.