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Classroom Routines Routines set up safety through predictability and structure. Our brains are pattern-seeking devices. Consistent routines provide those patterns for children, creating a more brain enriching environment for optimal learning potential. |
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Brainsmart Start-The Brainsmart Start provides a
way of managing and reducing stress for children and teachers for the
transition from home to school. Brains that are stressed cannot
learn. The components of the Brainsmart Start help turn off their
stress and connect as a school family in a safe classroom environment.
The Brainsmart Start Routine includes: 1. Activity to Unite-brings the class together and creates a unified beginning 2. Activity to Disengage Stress-utilizes stretching and breathing techniques to manage and decrease stressors 3. Activity to Connect-children and teacher connect with each other through activities that involve touch and/or eye contact 4. Activity to Commit-gives the brain direction and a goal to work towards; builds positive thinking
Here are some ideas for
implementing a Brainsmart Start from a
Click HERE for a printable copy of the icons for S.T.A.R., Balloon, Drain, and Pretzel
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Rules/Agreements-Providing visual depictions of rules helps children
better understand the expectations in the classroom. For young
children, don't use more than 5 and attach physical signals to each to
help relay meaning. The children can help create these visuals as
well-this is much like the Ways to Be Helpful Board (see
Physical
Structures)-many teachers use this board as their rules. Below is an
example of our classroom agreements-we take specific happenings in the
classroom to extend the meaning of each (i.e. "Safe Bodies means you
may not use your hands to hit someone-that isn't safe"). Along with these visuals, we also have physical gestures which symbolize each. Attentive Listening is our hands holding our ears; Lifting Words is our thumbs gesturing upwards; Safe Bodies was a quick movement of our hands like the boy in the visual; Teamwork was clasping our hands in front of our face. These are posted and included in our Ways to Be Helpful Book. You can create your own picture rule cards or purchase them commercially at teacher supply stores or through Loving Guidance, click HERE.
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Schedule-Again, a visual depiction of the day's schedule helps children
feel safe in knowing what is happening now, next, and after lunch, etc.
Predictability helps the brain in its' pattern seeking and builds security
through consistency. Any changes in the day are visible and can be
discussed as needed. Below is an example of our schedule cards. You can create your own or purchase them commercially through teacher supply stores or from Loving Guidance, click HERE. 
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