Consideration for Mindfulness Implementation
When bringing something new into the classroom, you must always consider the greater effects it will have on your students- both intentional and unintentional consequences. Introducing mindfulness into the classroom can be great for some kids and difficult for others; you must consider how students who have faced trauma or toxic stress will react to these moments of intense presence and focus on our bodies which may trigger traumatic memories.
It is best to approach your mindfulness program with a trauma-sensitive lens... but what does that mean?
Click the button below for an outline of Trauma and PTSD.
It is best to approach your mindfulness program with a trauma-sensitive lens... but what does that mean?
Click the button below for an outline of Trauma and PTSD.
What is Trauma-Informed Practice?
Alberta Education defines trauma-informed practice as the practices involved in developing positive relationships and learning environments in which all students can feel safe and cared for (even those who have experienced trauma) in a welcoming, caring, respectful and safe school space.
We know that ALL children benefit from a learning environment that is:
(Alberta, 2021) |
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Here I have included some videos about brain development and trauma- this will help set the stage for why we must consider these things when implementing mindfulness into our classrooms and schools.
I have included this video from Alberta Family Wellness Initiative- this video talks about how are brains are built and how experiences affect development in many ways. This video also touches on toxic stress- negative experiences- that will have an impact later in life. This is related to the ACE's (Adverse Childhood Experiences) which include traumatic and harmful experiences under the umbrellas of abuse, neglect and household dysfunction (Palix Foundation, 2021).
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I have included this video as well from the UK Trauma Council. It touches on similar topics and information as the video from AFWI, but it gives a deeper look at the specific effects of childhood trauma on the brain. Although it is a UK resource, it is still relevant and helpful for AB teachers to look at and learn from.
Click the button below to view resources and tools. |
How to Implement Mindfulness in a Trauma-Sensitive Manner...
I had the opportunity to take MindUp training in February 2021, and within that course they expressed some ways to be trauma-sensitive with the implementation of their curriculum, but I felt these notions would carry through regardless of what mindfulness program you use.
It is important to consider the impacts of trauma, as mindfulness is based in spending time with yourself and being present with your own thoughts- this can trigger traumatic memories and thoughts.
It is important to consider the impacts of trauma, as mindfulness is based in spending time with yourself and being present with your own thoughts- this can trigger traumatic memories and thoughts.
Mindfulness should ALWAYS be presented as an invitation- if a student does not want to/feel comfortable participating, do not force them into it.
- Start with a grounding, body-based mindfulness exercise. By starting with sensory-based practice, students have something to focus on instead of letting their minds go completely.
- Each activity should be an invitation. Do NOT force them.
- Be flexible. Adapt activities as needed; there is not one way to do mindfulness, so work with your students to find something that works for them.
- Provide many opportunities to make happy memories and experiences in the classroom. Use these to support students as they are guided through mindful practices; give them something positive to think about.
- Be diligent in taking note of students who may be struggling, and refer to your school CDA, Psychologist or learning support team when necessary.
- If mindfulness triggers the following, reach out and refer!
- Overwhelming sadness, fear, anxiety, etc.
- Continual problems with outbursts or aggression
- Difficulties with school/learning/relationships
- Intense anxiety and refusal to participate
- If mindfulness triggers the following, reach out and refer!
(Siemens & Dittrick, 2021)
Image from: https://genmindful.com/?utm_source=pinterest&utm_medium=social
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References:
Alberta. (2021). Trauma-informed practice. Retrieved April 07, 2021, from https://www.alberta.ca/trauma-informed-practice.aspx Palix Foundation. (2021). ACE's. Retrieved April 07, 2021, from https://www.albertafamilywellness.org/what-we-know/aces Siemens, J., & Dittrick, C. (2021, February). MindUp Training. Lecture presented at MindUp Training in Rocky View School Division. |