Is An Emotional Intelligence Curriculum the Key to Bullying Prevention?
In school, emotions matter. Not only do children with anxiety and aggression have difficulty focussing and learning, they also tend to be victims or perpetrators of bullying. Whether it’s old-fashioned physical or verbal aggression, ostracism, or online abuse, bullying is deeply rooted in a lack of emotional intelligence skills. These skills can and should be taught, though they seldom are. Read full article
Five Top Tips to Help Your Child Overcome Shyness
Shyness in kids is very common, and “everybody can feel shy in certain situations,” says Professor Jennifer Hudson, a clinical psychologist and research fellow from Macquarie University’s Centre for Emotional Health . While mild shyness is not defined as an anxiety condition, approximately one in five children will have a problem with exceptional shyness and anxiety, such that it significantly interferes with their daily life. Professor Hudson’s latest longitudinal research into the role of temperament and stressful life events in the development of childhood anxiety found that shy children experience fewer positive life experiences because of their inhibitions. Read full article
Teens Learn Their Model of Romantic Relationships from Parents
A new study from University of Alberta relationship researchers, published in the Journal of Marriage and Family, found the quality of the relationship between an adolescent and their parents was directly related to the quality of the teen’s intimate relationship 15 years later. Described as a small but noteworthy association, the researchers say their findings match previous evidence that children learn their model of close relationships from their family of origin. Read full article
Mindfulness Training for Teachers - The Benefits
With teacher wellbeing a hot topic in the education sector, a small study out of the U.S. suggests there is a prevention for teacher stress and burnout: mindfulness training. The study reported that teachers who participated in a mindfulness training course had reduced symptoms of psychological distress and burnout, were better organised in the classroom and had more self-compassion. Read full article
Judging Children by Their Names. What?
I had to think about whether to share this video. In the end I decided to share it for your amusement. A UK reality show personality shares her beliefs about judging children's qualities and suitability for her children's company - based on their names. Watch this and prepare to be amazed by another human. Read full article
5 Keys to Social and Emotional Learning in Schools - Video
Five minute comprehensive video explaining what social and emotional learning means (SEL) in schools and why it is important. Covers social awareness, self awareness, relationship skills and more. Teachers explain why emotional intelligence is an important part of the school curriculum. Read full article
Take a Seat - Make a Friend - Try this in a School?
A beautiful video from Soul Pancake called "Take a Seat - Make a Friend". We think this would be a brilliant exercise for a Primary or Elementary school to help children get to know each other, make friends, and appreciate diversity. This is great. Take 5 minutes and enjoy this. Read full article
How You Praise Your Toddler Has a Lasting Impact
In a study that is the first of its kind, researchers observing real-world parent-child interactions have shown the lasting effect of parents’ praise on their children’s behaviours and thoughts. In this article, reporting on the research, you will learn about which type of praise has a positive impact on children's motivation and persistence, and be provided with examples. Read full article
My Son Doesn't Want Surprise Gifts This Christmas
This year, there will be no surprises at Christmas time for my six year old son. No, he hasn’t been a ‘naughty boy’ and therefore undeserving of Santa’s generosity. The reason my son will have no surprises is that he will choose all of his presents and be with us when we buy them, in November. They will then be wrapped and put under the Christmas tree. Read full article
Room to Breathe - Film about Mindfulness in Schools
Room to Breathe is a story of transformation as struggling kids in a San Francisco public middle school are introduced to the practice of mindfulness. Topping the district in disciplinary suspensions, and with overcrowded classrooms creating a nearly impossible learning environment, overwhelmed administrators are left with stark choices. Do they repeat the cycle of forcing tuned-out children to listen, or experiment with a set of age-old inner practices that may provide them with the social, emotional, and attention skills that they need to succeed? Read full article
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