Reduce violence & stress for 60 students in RI

"Calm down!" I have heard countless teachers say to their students. Unfortunately students are never explicitly taught how to do that. If only they could manage their stress, they would be able to stay focused on their studies, sleep better, bully peers less, stay healthy, and grow more confident in their abilities allowing them to stay in school and go on to fulfill their dreams. This is a long list of high hopes for our youth today, but what we often see in our new classrooms in September is a group of students full of anxiety, depression, and other stress-related challenges. 

The good news is that students can learn to focus on the present moment to insulate themselves from stress of the past or anxiety over the future. Data shows us that reducing stress will reduce violence, and mindfulness has been shown around the world to do just that. Locally, it's only half way through the year, and already these 60 students are reporting an increased sense of calm, control over their feelings, and the school reports a 50% reduction in the behavior referrals to the Principal's office.

One of my mentors says, "You can't stop the waves, but you can learn to surf." When students learn to manage their stress, they're surfing, which will ultimately open so so many doors for them as they graduate and become our next generation of leaders. Who do we want in that position, someone who can calm themselves down, or someone who is a constantly knocked over by each and every wave that comes their way? 

On behalf of the students (and their teachers) who are benefitting from your generosity, we thank you!

Links:

• ResilientKids Organization Home Page