Calm Classroom Ideas

 As we return to the classroom, it has never been as important to create a safe and calm learning environment for students and staff.

Here are a couple of ideas of things I use in the classroom to create a sense of calm!

Yoga

A couple of years ago, I did a few great yoga workshops with Ciara Delaney from the IPPEA. She went through some lovely sequences of yoga that could be done in the class.

We also explored creating stories from the yoga poses. The children can also invent their own stories incorporating yoga poses for the class.

Here is an example of some free cards that you could use to get started and explore some sequences!

                                

If you want to find little videos on yoga for children, have a look at Go Noodle and Cosmic Kids Yoga.

Relaxing Music 

Simply type this into Youtube and you will have loads of options to set a calm atmosphere in the class.

Mindful Colouring 

Play some relaxing music and get colouring, you can find thousands of these online. 

                            

Mindfulness Programme

You could also follow a programme for Mindfulness. I bought the Mindfulness in the Classroom book by Michele Gallen a couple of years ago.  As I return to the classroom this year, I have it dusted off and have it ready to go. 

It does give you teacher homework  (you have to also do the lessons!)  A fabulous resource that contains everything you need to get started. (Click on photo for link).

                                                

All About Me Sheet (FREEBIE!)

 On the first few days back to school, I always do a worksheet like this with the students. It is a great way for me to get to know the children and a nice activity to help them settle into your class.

                                             

We usually display them in the class for a bit and then I keep them in my folder so I can glance back every now and again!  I have included an English & Irish version so you can choose which you prefer (or do both!)

Click on the image below to download this freebie!

I hope it makes the first few days back to school a little earlier.

Here is another version I use with the older classes. Click on it to download.

See other back to school posts here.