WE Teachers is a free program that gives teachers many different resources and tools to support their student’s well-being. This PDF document guides creating a safe and supportive classroom environment with a positive mindset.

It includes tips for..

• Building positive relationships with students
• Creating a sense of belonging
• Using positive reinforcement to promote good behavior

Along with many tips, the module also includes a range of activities and exercises teachers can use, such as:

• Mindfulness practices
• Breathing exercises
• Visualization techniques
• Creative activities (journaling, art therapy)

The module also stresses the imporance of knowing how to help students (what to do and what resocures can help them) and how important it is to check in on your students daily (if you notice odd behavior, how can you support them?) Please scroll down and view some photos.

One exciting idea I found in the module was incorporating mindfulness practices into the classroom routine. I think that this is something teachers often do not do, but having a daily routine that allows students to reflect on their mindfulness is essential and can set their day up for success; it can reduce stress and anxiety while improving focus and attention. In my future classroom, I would start each class with a short mindfulness breathing exercise or a guided meditation. After my classes every day, I watch this Youtube video to allow myself a few minutes to reduce some tension in my body. Giving my students the same opportunity to decompress within themselves will help them develop essential stress management skills throughout their life, which I wish I had been taught in school.