Preschool to Home Connection

In the times of COVID-19 things are changing rapidly and you may find yourself trying to find a new normal. This can lead to feelings of anxiety and stress for both adults and children. Mindfulness is a practice that can allow us all to invite calm and to pause before we react.

What is mindfulness?

Mindfulness, according to John Kabat-Zinn,

• Purposefully paying attention
• Recognizing the present moment
• Being non-judgemental in our thoughts

Mindfulness is the practice of simply, noticing. Slowing down and paying attention to what is happening around you in the present moment. In this time of uncertainty there might be times where one may have intense feelings. Mindfulness teaches us to be non-judgemental with those thoughts and feelings. So when something happens, instead of reacting impulsively one can stop, breathe, then respond. This will create an opportunity to be more responsive and less reactive. One way to help us achieve this is to focus on one's breath. The following breathing activities allow us to anchor both adults and children to the present moment.

Noticing and paying attention to our breath is a great way for students to calm. See below for examples of breathing.

Below is a short video of how you can practice mindfulness with your children at home. Just have them grab their favorite stuffed animal and we will be ready to begin!

Questions? We are here to help! Contact your Student Support Facilitator:

Maria Lindsay-mclindsay@ssdmo.org

Parkway Early Childhood, Barretts, Oak Brook, Carman Trails, Wren Hollow:

Megan Browne: mmbrowne@ssdmo.org

Ladue, Brentwood, Ritenour, South County Headstart

Colleen Hoeflinger-cmhoeflinger@ssdmo.org

Lindbergh, Lindbergh West, Maplewood, Valley Park

Jessica Orf- jlorf@ssdmo.org

Afton, Bayless, Hancock, Webster

Julie Harter- jmharter@ssdmo.org

Jennings, Riverview Gardens, Normandy, Parkway North and ISC