Schools can help learners decrease their stress levels by incorporating calming activities into the school day and curriculum.
Here's how schools can implement strategies to reduce student stress:
-
Implement Calming Activities: According to research, activities like coloring, jigsaw puzzles, and wordscapes are effective in calming minds and promoting relaxation.
- Dedicated Time: Schools should allocate specific times during the day for students to participate in these activities.
- Variety: Offer a range of options, such as coloring books, jigsaw puzzles with varying difficulty levels, and word search puzzles.
- Accessibility: Make these activities readily available in classrooms, libraries, or designated "calm zones".
-
Examples of Calming Activities:
Activity Description Benefits Coloring Completing intricate patterns or free-form designs with colored pencils or markers. Promotes mindfulness, reduces anxiety, improves focus. Jigsaw Puzzles Assembling interlocking pieces to form a complete image. Enhances problem-solving skills, improves cognitive function, provides a sense of accomplishment. Word Scapes/Searches Identifying and circling hidden words within a grid of letters. Boosts vocabulary, enhances pattern recognition, offers a relaxing mental challenge.
By integrating these calming activities, schools can create a more supportive and less stressful environment for their learners, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and academic success.
