Effective ways in enhancing positivity for your students

Enhancing positivity in schools is important to ensure that students can learn efficiently and improve their physical and mental well-being. A National Education Union (NEU) survey reveals the impact of school pressures on student mental health. Out of the 730 education staff, ranging from early years to FE colleges, 56% of pupils’ mental health issues were leading them to self-harm. That is more than half and an alarming number. The survey also noted how. This is a devastating reality and shows that schools need to make a difference by enhancing positivity for their students and faculty. 

But what can schools do? And where to start?

Creating a safe and positive school environment

A safe and positive environment in schools would play an important role in ensuring that everyone can thrive in school.

Teaching stress management skills

A study suggested that teaching stress management is necessary. Especially with so much pressure on students’ lives. They need guidance on how to handle their stress and emotions. Equipping them with stress management skills can be a valuable tool to recognize and manage their stress effectively and positively.

Model good coping behaviors to students 

Humans learn best by example. Especially young children. They can be like sponges. It is vital for teachers to model good behaviors to students. Being calm, genuine, and caring around them would most likely help students adopt these behaviors in dealing with their stress. 

Teachers can start by demonstrating a positive attitude in the classroom. For example, listening to students’ concerns and demonstrating understanding as well as empathy. Sometimes students are harsh on themselves because other people in their surroundings are harsh on them. Perhaps offering them some empathy will help them empathize with themselves more. When teachers offer students the opportunity to address their concerns or worries, it also trains them to be good listeners to their peers.

Teachers can also be honest about their feelings and show that it is natural to have bad days. It’s human and being open to discussing and acknowledging their feelings can help students to feel safe about their emotions.

Enhancing positivity for students by breaking the monotony in classroom lessons 

Doing the same thing every day for a long period of time will bore us. The same goes for students. It is important that teachers try to change things up sometimes. Introducing some variety into a monotonous routine can help rejuvenate and enliven it.

Sometimes a different environment brings in a new perspective.

Teachers can come up with creative ways to liven up lessons

Teachers can liven up lessons by incorporating interactive activities such as games and fun experiments. Additionally, introducing multimedia resources like videos or movies to supplement the lesson material can also be helpful. Watching movies or TV shows highlighting education can be a fun way to learn in class. Furthermore, using digital tools such as virtual reality, online quizzes, and educational apps can also aid and enhance students’ learning experience.

Fostering creativity in the classroom is also a great way to unleash students’ hidden talents. There are many ways to help teachers foster creativity in the classroom. For example, encouraging class discussions and debates to foster critical thinking and active participation. Teachers could also provide opportunities for creative expressions, such as through art, music, or creative writing assignments.

Encouraging outdoor lessons

Organizing field trips can help students get a breath of fresh air from the regular classroom setting. Not only does it introduces a variety, but students would also look forward to classes. On top of that, collaborative group projects or peer teaching in outdoor lessons could also encourage teamwork and social skills. This will help create a positive and supportive classroom environment.

Initiative to support students’ mental health while enhancing positivity 

Provide students with mental health support

One of the many initiatives schools can carry out to support students’ mental health is by creating a safe and supportive environment where students feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns. It is vital to educate students about mental health issues. For example, ways to recognize signs of mental health problems in themselves or their peers and the importance of seeking help.

To encourage students to seek help, schools must provide school counselors, social workers, or school psychologists. Additionally, schools could also offer mental health screenings and assessments to identify students who may be at risk for mental health problems.  Providing access to mental health services, such as counseling or therapy, through the school or community mental health resources would be helpful in encouraging students to reach out for help. It can be a lonely journey, but knowing that somebody cares and that there is a way to overcome it, will really make a difference for struggling students.

In conclusion, building positive student-teacher relationships and providing consistency can greatly help in promoting positivity and protecting the mental health of your students and faculty.