Mental health and Well-being Strategies in the Classroom

How do the readings relate to your observations about mental health and well-being strategies in your practicum setting?

I am very fortunate to be placed in a school/classroom that employs many of the well-being strategies discussed in the readings. First of all, during the first week of school there was a strong focus on learning about growth mindset. We have continued to use the growth mindset in every class. Students were also given clear expectations that they are never to laugh at another student’s question or answer. When this does occur, students are immediately reprimanded for this behaviour. The reason why my AT is so strict about this is to ensure that all of the students feel safe expressing themselves when learning new things. Furthermore, students are encouraged to self-regulate. If they feel they need a break, they may ask to leave the class for a body break. We have a “nest” at our school where they can go to refocus and relax so that they can return to class ready to learn.

What are the strategies that you will incorporate into your practice?

In my practice, I will focus on the growth mindset concept with my students. I have seen this work wonders with student’s readiness to learn. Additionally, I will implement DPA into my lessons to ensure that students are meeting their daily physical activity requirements. The third strategy I will use will be self-regulation. I will teach the students how to recognize their emotions and appropriate ways to react when they feel these emotions. Students will be encouraged to use these self-regulation strategies including talking “body-breaks” when necessary. I will also ensure that my classroom is a safe space by not allowing any negative language- teasing and mocking will not be permitted.

Based on the Supporting Minds Ministry document, how will you implement this knowledge to support student mental health in the classroom?

From the Supporting Minds Ministry document, I understand that although it is not my job to diagnose mental health problems, I do have an important part to play. As a teacher, it is my job to promote positive mental health at school. Some ways I can achieve this is by teaching and modeling positive mental health tools and strategies; encouraging students to use a growth mindset; and making my classroom an emotionally safe environment. Furthermore, I need to identify students who may be at risk and find the appropriate services to connect them to.