News
Bradt students use their ‘mind power’ to create optimistic learning environment
Oct. 28, 2011
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| Mrs. Pace's kindergarten class holding
books about attitude and self-awareness |
Walk into any classroom at Bradt Primary School at any given time, and there’s a chance you’ll find students closing their eyes to focus on their breathing, listening to “calming” chimes, or reading books about self-control.
The school has embraced the Hawn Foundation’s MindUP program, which supports teachers in creating a more optimistic classroom. The idea is that this type of classroom affects students’ memory, learning, attitudes and behaviors through an awareness of how the brain works.
“When children are focused, the entire class can learn together and at a faster rate,” said Kindergarten Teacher Kerrianne Pace. “By incorporating mindful learning in the classroom, students become more alert, self-aware, optimistic, motivated and focused.”
Thanks to a grant written by Pace and Principal Diane McIver, all Bradt staff was trained in the new program last March.
Children of the optimistic classroom are taught to value people for who they are and understand their peers’ feelings and needs. These students experience a stronger sense of belonging and practice resolving conflicts.
“I see self esteem just soaring in my classroom,” said Pace. “It’s been so powerful for my students to realize that sometimes it’s not their fault that they can’t concentrate, but that there are tools we can use to gain back control.”
Pace
said an example of using MindUP can be as simple as refocusing a
class after recess when students are “wound up.” She hits a set of
chimes so students know to close their eyes (pictured left). After
30 seconds, she hits the chimes again to initiate students opening
their eyes, showing that they’re ready to learn.
Some teachers teach their students about the different parts of the brain, such as the amygdale, which is the almond-shaped region of the brain that controls emotions. Students talk about how negative emotions inhibit memory and learning, and positive, pleasurable experiences enhance memory and learning.
“It’s been very powerful to see the children use MindUP vocabulary and language,” adds Pace. “Sometimes I have students tell me that they need to calm down and try something to stay focused. That’s pretty great for a kindergartner to realize and express that need.”
For more information about the MindUP program, visit http://www.thehawnfoundation.org/mindup.
