Self-regulation is a critical skill for elementary students. One of the most effective techniques for self-regulation is deep breathing. Everyday Speech offers an engaging and calming digital tool called the Lily Pad Interactive Breathing Activity, which guides students through deep breathing exercises in a serene environment. In this blog post, we will explore how elementary special education teachers can use this Elementary Deep Breathing Digital Tool to help students manage their emotions and enhance their self-regulation skills.
Why Deep Breathing Matters
Deep breathing is an essential self-regulation technique because:
- It Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Calms the nervous system and helps manage stress.
- It Improves Focus: Enhances concentration and attention in the classroom.
- It Promotes Emotional Regulation: Helps students control their reactions to emotional triggers.
- It Supports Overall Well-Being: Contributes to a sense of calm and relaxation.
Introducing the Lily Pad Interactive Breathing Activity
The Lily Pad Interactive Breathing Activity from Everyday Speech is a digital tool designed to teach students deep breathing techniques in a visually engaging way. Students follow along with the lily pad rings to deeply inhale and exhale, creating a relaxing and immersive experience. This activity is particularly effective for young learners who benefit from visual and interactive methods of learning.
Lesson Plan: Using the Lily Pad Interactive Breathing Activity
Objective
By the end of the lesson, students will be able to practice deep breathing techniques to help regulate their emotions and reduce stress.
Materials Needed
- Access to Everyday Speech’s Lily Pad Interactive Breathing Activity
- A computer or tablet
- Comfortable seating or mats for students
- Reflection journals (optional)
Duration
20 minutes
Activity Steps
1. Introduction to Deep Breathing (5 minutes)
Begin by discussing the concept of deep breathing with the students. Explain how deep breathing can help them feel calm and manage their emotions. Use simple language and examples that are relatable to their experiences, such as feeling nervous before a test or upset after an argument.
2. Introducing the Lily Pad Interactive Breathing Activity (5 minutes)
Introduce the Lily Pad Interactive Breathing Activity to the class. Explain that they will follow the lily pad rings on the screen to practice deep breathing. Emphasize that this activity is meant to help them relax and feel better.
3. Guided Practice (5 minutes)
Have the students sit comfortably on mats or chairs. Start the Lily Pad Interactive Breathing Activity on the computer or tablet. Guide the students to follow along with the lily pad rings, deeply inhaling as the rings expand and exhaling as the rings contract. Encourage them to focus on their breath and the calming visuals.
4. Group Discussion and Reflection (5 minutes)
After the activity, gather the students for a group discussion. Ask them how they felt during the deep breathing exercise and if they noticed any changes in their mood or body. Encourage them to share their experiences and thoughts.
Optional: Have students draw or write about their experience in reflection journals.
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Conclusion
Teaching elementary students deep breathing for self-regulation is a valuable skill that can significantly impact their emotional well-being and classroom behavior. Using this Elementary Deep Breathing Digital Tool, teachers can create an engaging and calming experience that helps students learn to manage their feelings. By following the provided lesson plan and incorporating the no-prep activity ideas, educators can support their students in building these essential skills. For more resources and tips on teaching social-emotional learning, stay tuned to our blog.
Sample Video
Try out this sample animated video lesson.
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