This time of year (trying to keep the kids sane, testing, fitting in the last of your standards, trying to keep yourself sane) can make even the most zen of us a little frazzled. There couldn't be a better time for a giveaway that doesn't require too much effort.
Other than entering awesome stress-free giveaways, another way I find to calm myself and my students' anxiety, especially during testing, is to participate in daily morning meditation with my class. We use the Stop, Breathe, and Think app on the iPad, but the program is also available on Android or the web.
What I Love About This App:
*it's FREE!
*the voice on the guided meditations is soooo soothing
*you do a mental and physical "check in" before each meditation
*most meditations have options for a variety of lengths of time, so if you only have time for 5 minutes, you can save the 10 minute version for another day
*it's mindfulness at a kid's level
My class is able to choose a spot around the room in which they can be still and silent for the allotted amount of time. Some grab pillows and sit on the floor. Some stay at their seats. It's their choice, depending on what they're comfortable with. I also choose a spot that works for me that day. We settle in with the lights off and begin our meditation.
I have noticed a dramatic difference since we began this calm start to our day. Kids are more focused. Kids are less anxious. Everyone has been a little bit kinder. I 100% recommend this app if your class is experiencing any stress. If your class isn't, please contact me and share your secrets!
Now for the giveaway! There are 4 prizes and 4 winners.
1st prize: $75 Amazon giftcard
2nd prize: $40 Target giftcard
3rd prize: $25 TPT gift certificate
4th prize: $20 Starbucks giftcard
Just scroll through the Rafflecopter to access each of the prizes.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Good luck and let me know if you have any tried and true stress-reducing tips to share!
