Classrooms place constant demands on students’ attention, self-control, and emotional regulation. Students are expected to sit, listen, process information, manage sensory input, and shift between tasks throughout the day. When regulation breaks down, common strategies often focus on verbal reminders, breathing exercises, or asking students to “calm down.” These calming movements offer an easy way […]
Stimming behaviors are a natural and meaningful way many children regulate their bodies, emotions, attention, and thinking. While stimming is often misunderstood in school and community settings, a neuroaffirming perspective helps shift the focus from stopping behaviors to understanding what students need to feel safe, supported, and ready to learn. To support educators, therapists, and […]
When behavior feels challenging, overwhelming, or confusing, it is tempting to focus on stopping it as quickly as possible. However, behavior is rarely the problem itself. More often, it is a signal that something beneath the surface is not working as smoothly as it could. Understanding what system is under stress is often the key […]
Helping children explore the connection between music and emotions is a powerful way to build self-awareness, self-regulation, and emotional intelligence. This free activity is an easy, engaging lesson you can use in the classroom, therapy sessions, counseling groups, or at home. Best of all, you can download a FREE printable reflection worksheet and pair it […]
The figure 8 is more than just a simple shape. It’s a powerful tool for building coordination, focus, and motor control in children. Whether you’re walking on an 8 shape on the floor or writing along an 8 shape on paper, this versatile activity supports both body and brain development. Learn more and download a […]
If you’re looking for a simple way to teach kids how to calm their bodies and minds, these deep breathing visuals are the perfect tool. Download your free printable deep breathing cards at the bottom of this post and pair them with the 1-2-3 Breathe With Me song for a fun, mindful moment in the […]
Every teacher has met them, the fidgety kids. The ones who bounce in their chairs, drop pencils, rock back and forth, or tap their feet during lessons. At first glance, it can look like misbehavior. But what if those wiggles are really clues? With the right approach, we can decode what’s happening and respond in […]
Finding ways to help students (and ourselves) unplug and reset has never been more important. Neurographic art offers a calming, creative practice that quiets the mind, reduces stress, and helps us refocus on the present moment. This free activity is a sample from the complete Shapes of Stillness Packet, available here: Shapes of Stillness Packet. […]
The Self Regulation Song is here! Teachers, therapists, and parents can now download a free printable lyric sheet, watch the video, and dance together with students. The song is designed to get kids moving, listening, and practicing important self-regulation skills. You can download your FREE Printable at the bottom of the post. How Does The […]
When we think about self-regulation, we often picture a child’s ability to manage emotions, behavior, and attention. But there’s an important piece of the puzzle we can’t ignore: sensory processing. The way a child takes in, organizes, and responds to sensory information can influence how calm, focused, and flexible they are throughout the day. If […]