“Anger isn’t allowed at school.” ~ 4th Grade Student I’ve heard students identify themselves as “angry” or “bad” before they’ve even made it through elementary school. It got me thinking about the messages they’re receiving. Over the years, it’s become clearer to me how often kids confuse anger with the consequences generated when they act out of anger and rage. They haven’t learned to … Read More A…is for Anger
A few years ago, I was on a mindfulness retreat and one of the teachers talked about staying true to what you know, trusting your heart and listening to others. She said, “We are all suffering from terminal uniqueness.” We often have a sense that we’re the only one with a particular challenge and that no one understands what we’re going through. We feel … Read More Permission To Be Human
One reason I love Spring Break is that I have more time to read. I enjoy variety so I tend to vacillate between just-for-fun books (currently Amy Poehler’s YES PLEASE), books that support my personal/professional growth and home decorating magazines. I also come across a wealth of great articles online. I save the links in a folder so I can go back to them when I have time to really … Read More Name It To Tame It
As we continue to grow our mindful awareness at school, I’ve been teaching my first graders how to pay attention to thinking. To introduce the practice, we sit in a circle, settle in to our mindful bodies and take a few deep breaths together. Next, I ring the bell and we try to be still and quiet as we notice any thoughts we’re having. … Read More What’s On Your Mind?
Connecting With Heart 