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What Can Educators Do in the Classroom?

“Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.”  Philippians 1:6

Educators are often the first to notice mental health concerns that may be exhibited by students. Incorporating instructional strategies and practices that could help students reach their full potential is the goal. Every person is different and unique. As mental health challenges are impacting our children, youth, and young adults, it is important to remember that there are varying degrees of symptoms.

Two of the leading mental health challenges in the classroom are anxiety and depression.  Honestly, who hasn’t faced some type of anxiety or depression in their lifetime?  A certain amount of anxiety and depression are normal, but when the level of anxiety and depression starts to interfere with life, then, it’s time to confront it head-on.

Let’s face it, students who deal with anxiety may become easily frustrated, which could cause them to experience difficulty completing assignments. Or, they may refuse to begin an assignment out of fear of failure. So, what is a teacher to do? In many situations, incorporating some classroom strategies may help students feel more in control.

What are Classroom Strategies?

Strategies provide different ways for students to take in information or communicate their knowledge back to the teacher. Strategies do not alter the standards or expectations for the curriculum covered or material to be tested.  Neither do they change the measurement of work completed.  All students are expected to meet all the standards.  NAD REACH Website

Here are some strategies to help children/students dealing with anxiety:

Here are some strategies to help children/students dealing with depression:

Here are some strategies to help children/students who are diagnosed with ADD/ADHD: (Early Childhood through Elementary)

Here are some strategies to help students who are diagnosed with ADD/ADHD: (High School through College)

Visit our North American Division REACH (Reaching to Educate ALL Children for Heaven) website for additional classroom strategies and assistance on creating a MAP.

Deep Breathing for All

Deep breathing exercises can relieve stress and anxiety. Incorporate several deep breathing exercises for all students throughout the day. Teach students that they can reduce anxiety by breathing during a test. The increased oxygen flow to the brain will help students think more clearly.


Resources

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