A recent observation at a daycare center inspired this post.
A large classroom of twenty-four children aged 4-5 years, a rainy day, and choas all around. Story time and music may work at times but the focus is still on the adult, the child is expected to listen to and pay attention to an adult while their classmates provide wonderfully curious distraction.
This is where individually focused calming activities come in. Ive experimented with various activities but these stood the test of varying personalities and age groups.
The first activity I tried can easily be used in any childcare facility, in the home, or even in the car. Playdough! It can be purchased, homemade, you can use differenr colors or even scents, but playdough is all you need
I begin with some peaceful instrumentals and turn off the lights. If there is not enough natural sunlight I may use a candle. This helps to set the atmosphere. I also set a 15 minute timer.
I give a golf ball sized amount of playdough to each child in circle and tell them we are taking some special time to be artists at peace. The children are welcome to make anything they want, they are encouraged to keep their focus on their own art and are welcome to show off their work once the timer has tone gone off. After 15 minutes the children take turns introducing their art peice to their peers.
Calming activities should be sensorial and rotated frequently to avoid a loss of interest. Soothing light and music can make a difference in setting the tone for calming activities.
In most observations of calming activity time the children responded positively and enjoyed the opportunity to create. Discussing their art also encourages public speaking and socialization.
What calming activities do you use in your classroom? Stay tuned for the next calming activity!
Montessori Consulting 