Pathway to Emotions
In a recent initiative, the student leadership team and educators at St. Jerome School have been diligently preparing other students for the upcoming installation of a sensory path that was purchased with the Be Kind Online Grant. The sensory path has decals that will provide appropriate sensory input to help decrease sensory seeking behaviors. The educators prepare the students by focusing on developing essential emotional regulation skills. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure that students can fully benefit from the sensory path while also promoting long-term self-regulation strategies.
The journey began with helping students understand their body’s natural responses to stress and anxiety. By recognizing physical signs such as changes in breathing and heart rate, students learned to identify when they are experiencing distress. Techniques like slowing their breathing were practiced helping them regain control and calm down.
Mindfulness was introduced as a powerful tool for managing anxiety. Students were taught to focus on the present moment, using their five senses to ground themselves. Engaging in short meditation exercises helped them relax during moments of heightened stress.
Journaling and creative expression played a significant role in this initiative. Students explored journaling as a way to process their thoughts and feelings, practice gratitude, and solve problems. Creative activities like doodling allowed them to visualize their shift from stress to calmness, using colors to express emotions when words were hard to find.
Physical activity was highlighted as another effective strategy for reducing anxiety and stress. Students learned that engaging in fun physical activities can release brain chemicals that promote happiness and relaxation, helping to distract them from repetitive thoughts or worries.
Teaching these emotional regulation skills before the sensory path installation is crucial. It builds awareness of emotional states, provides context for purposeful use, reinforces key skills, promotes independence, enhances self-reflection, and encourages mindful engagement. By focusing on these foundational skills, students are equipped with practical strategies to manage their emotions effectively, ensuring they can fully benefit from the sensory path and foster long-term emotional and behavioral growth.
