What are Mindfulness Retreats for Teens-

LiTT is working with school districts to prioritize student social-emotional learning (SEL).

The goal is to assist in optimal emotional, mental and physical health for teachers, students, and communities. 

Tools in accessing peace through mindfulness can transform and enhance well-being and academic success. By bringing together in a retreat setting student leaders we are fostering a culture of well-being and resilience creating positive ripple effects throughout the school & community.

How do we do it-

This Academic Enrichment project prioritizes the social and emotional needs of students through designing and implementing interactive sessions within regular school programming to practice techniques for stress reduction, emotional regulation, and improved focus. We will use culturally responsive practices, trauma-informed approaches, and equity-centered frameworks to ensure programs are accessible and inclusive for all learners.

Additional data inputs are the five Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) national SEL learning standards: Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Relationship Skills, Social Awareness, and Responsible Decision Making. Within these competencies, each SEL*F strategy is aligned and organized into eight components: Settle In, Breath Awareness, Mindful Movement, Community Connection, Creative Expression, Focus, Relaxation, and Closing. I am certified in implementing Breathe for Change’s Social-Emotional Learning Facilitator (SEL*F) curriculum, which is oriented around CASEL competencies to align with the enrichment curriculum relevant for my school.

Student gain lasting skills from practicing SEL*F components applied within different CASEL competencies as shown below.

Settle In activities are used for: Openings, Transitions, Test Preparation, Daily Routines.

Students in the midst of transitioning activities / lessons benefit from practices to calm themselves and encourage integration of particular concepts into their bodies and minds. Techniques to center students can reduce their anxiety before tests, quizzes, and exams. Knowing they are in a safe space for learning increases student productivity, and maintains clear expectations.

Breath Awareness activities are used for: Emotional Regulation (Individual & Group), Test Preparation, Stress Reduction.

Breath Awareness teaches individual students to regulate their emotions, calm their minds, or recenter themselves when they are triggered. Recognizing when energy is high, conflict arises, or pressure is elevated helps them assess their emotions and calm their minds to continue engaging in learning. 

Mindful Movement activities are used for: Enhanced Engagement, Brain Breaks, Physical Education, Transitions.

Mindful Movement exercises increase participation and engagement. After extended periods of mental focus, students are encouraged to give their brains a break to re-energize their minds and bodies. These experiences develop mind-body awareness, coordination, self-awareness, flexibility, and strength to aid students’ transition between subjects.

Creative Expression activities are used for: Literacy Integration, Conflict Resolution, Brainstorming, and Action Planning.

Connecting students’ creativity through reflection and dialogue can enhance students’ speaking, listening, writing, and reading skills. Students practice tapping into their creativity to overcome obstacles and solve problems, inspire creative brainstorming sessions, promote out-of-the-box thinking, and encourage innovation. These activities support students in manifesting their visions for themselves into action.

Closing activities are used for: Lesson Completion, Community Building, Reflection, Experience Processing, and Cognitive/Emotional Integration, Transition. 

Closing strategies allow students to complete a lesson, class, or learning experience with a pause to integrate their learning into their personal goals, self-awareness, and/or community relationships. Students personally reflect on and process their thoughts and emotions, which can be shared in group dialogue and reflection.