Moment to PAWS at NES

We are using our hearts and brains and breaths first thing every morning.

Pausing will help us focus our attention to learn.

Pausing will teach us self-awareness and help us calm ourselves.

Pausing will help us become more empathetic to others.

Dear Parents and Guardians,

     In this day and age, we often catch ourselves either rushing from one activity to the next or surrounded by digital screens demanding our constant attention.   Because of this, many students have a hard time quieting their brains and bodies in order to focus on learning. 

     A great body of research from the field of neuroscience demonstrates that a child’s attention span can be lengthened with simple techniques that calm the brain and focus their energy.  As part of BVSD’s emphasis on teaching Social and Emotional Skill Building, NES students have been introduced to the technique of taking a “MOMENT TO PAUSE/PAWS” first thing every day.  

Children and staff are learning how to quiet their internal distractions and thoughts so they can attend to the joy of learning.   Later in the day, after an excited time at recess or a socially active lunch, the students are once again coached to transition their bodies into a calmer emotional state where the brain is ready to learn. 

     Research shows that pausing to breathe deeply and focus intently not only aids in learning, but is also one of the key techniques for regulating our intense emotions during stressful or frustrating times.  By knowing how to calm themselves, children can begin to thoughtfully think through how to creatively address the challenges in their lives.   

    Please ask your son or daughter to tell you about some of the tools they are learning to use when they have strong emotions.  Encourage them to practice these techniques at home with siblings and friends.  Learning to be mindful of oneself is the first step in learning to be mindful of others.  We hope you will be amazed by their knowledge of how their brain works and at the beautiful, young wisdom they have to share!

Ann Sherman, NES Social Emotional Learning Instryctor

Patty Schrader, Certified Mindfulness Instructor

Jeffrey Miller, Principal Nederland Elementary