Exploring Mindfulness Through Inquiry-Based Learning
Hey, y'all! We've been doing a lot in our classroom with both mindfulness and inquiry-based learning in the last few years, but I don't think we've ever combined them in this way. This next, free inquiry-based learning mini-unit is all about mindfulness and its benefits.
We always start off an inquiry-unit by defining what it is we're actually talking about. In this case, what does mindfulness really mean, what it looks like, and what it's not. We do some mindfulness activities in the classroom so that the kids see what it is we really mean.
We, then, talk about what kind of mindfulness activities we can do in different places. Not every setting is good for yoga, and building with loose parts or blowing bubbles isn't always an option. But deep breathing can be done anywhere, as well as saying positive affirmations, even if it's just in your head. When students realize they can do some kind of mindfulness activity anywhere they are, it opens up a whole new world of self-regulation.
After we complete a mindfulness activity in the classroom, we talk about how we feel after and if we feel any positive changes. In this mini-unit, we're also looking at how our calm and focus affects the people around us. Like, when we're calm, the people around us feel calmer, too. This makes for more relaxed classmates, teachers, and family. It's a win-win.
I also want my students to know what works for them and what doesn't, and that they can choose what tools to use to create their own calm and quiet their minds. So we take note of which mindfulness activities help us the most.
It's a simple little unit with big benefits. You can check out the whole unit here in my TPT store. While you're there, be sure to follow me for all the latest and greatest. They're a TON of new things in the works and you don't want to miss any of it!
Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful week. I'll talk to you soon.
Stay cozy,
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