Learning Environment

Our Learning Setting

In Te Ara Takitini, we have worked to develop a learning environment where children feel safe and included.  We have set up systems and expectations where children know that their emotional wellbeing, safety and happiness are paramount.  Children have often spoken with me and emailed me with concerns or to talk about things that might be going on.  

To support emotional and mental wellbeing we introduced Mindfulness and use the Smiling Mind programme and some others on a daily basis.  I model using mindfulness also to help it be an embedded part of our day.  Some children choose to just sit, others will lie down and some choose to read quietly.  All of this is fine with me because the general feeling is a calm one and all children will be hearing messages and strategies to help deal with different emotions, life, stress and overall wellbeing.

 

I purchased and started using essential oils in the learning space and choose blends that support anxiety, promote calmness and have a positive and uplifting effect on moods.  Earlier in the year a group of children wrote an order list for me to make them roller ball blends for emotional wellbeing.  

A blend made for our class to help relax.

Students have written a number of lists and requested certain blends for themselves and families.

Diffusing essential oils has a positive on children as well as me and the smell is so pleasing.

Sometimes when children are working, I play binaural beats or music to help with focus, positivity and concentration.  

Some Binaural Beats can target specific needs such as ADHD.

You Tube has a huge selection to choose from.

Emotional and mental wellbeing is such an issue in society and with children these days.  In order to manage and tend to some of this, using these natural and calming strategies has had a positive effect on our class culture and could possibly benefit children as they go through life.  

Not only do these things have a positive impact on the children, but they also benefit me and help me to stay grounded, calm and positive.

• Manage the learning setting to ensure access to learning for all and to maximise learners’ physical, social, cultural and emotional safety.