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Our curriculum for youth combines positive psychology and character development to support teens as they cultivate a positive mindset and beneficial habits.
Three Deep Breaths
Breathing helps us in so many ways: to calm and center the nervous system, to dissipate the chemical cascade of fear or anger, to bring fresh oxygen to the brain and body. Breathing into the belly, letting the belly expand out in front, is key to moving from anxiety or stress into a place of calm awareness. Breathing up high in the chest, the belly not expanding at all, can actually increase anxiety. So let your belly get big when you breathe!
5+1 = Right Now Awareness
This mindfulness lesson is appropriate for all students and adults. It is a potent practice to bring your mind and body right into current time. When overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed out, it can be hard to stop and take perspective. This quick lesson helps students focus on the physical sensations of the present moment and quiet a busy mind. After a quick check-in with the five senses and their emotional status, students are calmed, centered, and ready to get back on track with a focused mind.
Post-Test Self-Evaluation
This activity puts students in the driver's seat, supporting them to take ownership of their academic progress and accomplishment. After each lesson or unit assessment, students complete the self-evaluation, honing in on what they did well, what didn't go so well, WHY it didn't go well, and what he or she needs to know or do to correct the error. Set aside about 30 minutes after you return tests/exams/quizzes and turn students loose on this activity. (Middle and High School levels)
GRATITUDE
Regularly focusing on feelings of gratitude in our everyday experiences creates a happier and healthier life. What are some common side effects of gratitude? In your body, your brain receives signals of “Send out the good stuff! Everything is OK. I’m not anxious, or worried, or nervous.” Your neurochemistry changes as you experience gratitude. You move from fight or flight mode, to rest and relax. Research indicates that a once-a-week gratitude list has a stronger effect on creating overall happiness than writing a list once a day or even three times a week.