At our Community Gatherings, we come together to find ways to make our school safe and support each other's learning. This week, we made a commitment to using calming strategies when we feel overwhelmed. It's important for our students to understand that when we are overwhelmed, it's hard to think clearly and make safe and helpful choices.
Deep breathing is a powerful tool we teach to help regain composure and control. Below is an image of four breathing techniques we use at MES.
Parents, we invite you to strengthen the connection between home and school by talking to your children about these techniques and practicing them together. It's best to practice them regularly and when everyone is feeling calm. Through consistent practice, children will eventually learn to use these techniques to manage their emotions.
Before they learn to manage their emotions on their own, your child will need your support. You can do this by practicing deep breathing with them. At school, you may often hear a teacher say something like, "You seem upset. Let's take a deep breath together," and then guide the child in a deep breathing exercise to help them feel calmer.
Wishing you and your family well,
Principal Lynch
