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Brain Basics 101: Creating Socially and Emotionally Healthy Classrooms

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Brain Basics 101: Creating Socially and Emotionally Healthy Classrooms
Key ideas/emphasis:
  • Trauma and stress are big challenges to learning
  • Emotional health is not an “appetizer” or a “dessert”- it is the plate
  • Teaching students about the parts of the brain and what they control
  • Helping students understand dysregulation  (acting out and acting in)
  • Teaching students the proper way to breathe-the prefrontal cortex (which is used for complex thinking)  “goes offline” during times of stress, and correct/deep breathing helps bring it “back online” and also releases oxytocin
  • Pyramid of trauma, stress and learning (below)- students who form ONE healthy, supportive adult relationship can offset this pyramid



Big takeaway: CHASE THE WHY-The Posture of Curiosity
Easy to begin using tomorrow
When dealing with students who are either dysregulated or not exhibiting the desired behavior, use the following phrases: “I wonder…” or I noticed…”  
Examples: “I wonder what is keeping you from doing your work,” “I wonder if you may want to talk after class,” or “I wonder if this other seat is a better choice”   It does not ask a direct question (but initiates communication)  without creating a communication/power struggle

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