December is the month of Self-Control for our moral focus.
Research shows that mindfulness practice will help our ability to show self-control.
This time of year from many families it is the holiday season. For all of our students it means a two week break from school. The anticipation of these events can lead to a limited ability to remain calm and in control.
Helping children gain self-control will help calm them and reduce your stress.
Take some time this month to practice calm deep breaths, sitting with ones thoughts and feelings, and taking time away from screens.
I know in my house the older children show less self-control when they are on a screen. My oldest is often reminded of his voice level, his word choice, and the amount of time he is on a screen. Teaching a mindful self-control now will support children as they mature into adulthood.
If you have a bottle of bubbles at home practice self-control with bubbles.
I like to blow bubbles and have students simply watch them. No popping is allowed. Watching the bubbles creates focus, calm, and self-control. Let the child blow a bubble too. This helps with slow in and out deep breathing.
Mindfulness is a great way to connect as a family and boost self-control during a challenging and stressful holiday season.
