Tuesday, September 19, 2017

Meditation practice in San Francisco

I was a mess growing up. I couldn't finish my work for the life of me and I distracted other kids. I'm sure it's why I ended up in the field of education because I love helping kids who were just like me. Looking back, I'm sure meditation would have been a much better choice for me and millions of others instead of detention or suspension. Ah well, no one knew better.

However, San Francisco schools are getting on the mindfulness path and are seeing huge results. Bravo to Superintendent Richard Carranzo.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U9-phWL8t08

For White Folks Who Teach in the Hood, and the Rest of Y'all Too


https://www.amazon.com/White-Folks-Teach-Hood-Rest-ebook/dp/B00Z3E2LVO



CALLING ALL TEACHERS - READ THIS! 

Professor Christopher Emdin from Columbia University is a super smarty pants and has unlocked the door to reaching this new generation of learners. I would LOVE to interview this teacher. He just gets it. 

Teacher K-16 must read this well written book. 


Here is his TED talk:

Story Line Online

http://www.storylineonline.net

Another free website for K-5 teachers (although I know a few middle schoolers who dig it). Famous actors like Betty White (my fave!!) and Chris Pine read beautifully illustrated books that represent a diverse culture. All of these books will fit into any character development program at your school as empathy seems to be the theme that ties these books together. You will, no doubt, be fascinated to see which books your students enjoy the most.

Super Fun Brain Breaks!


https://www.gonoodle.com

This free website is a treasure for all educators. I have used it with K-5 classes and they all love it. I have a feeling that middle school and high school could see it as their jam as well. You will not need much space (don't even move your furniture) but you will need to post this on your smart board. There is everything from mindfulness moving to high intensity aerobics. These short videos are a great way to start and end the day, as well as transition to different subjects. Enjoy!

Feel Rich - Documentary


Amazing documentary featuring hip hop artists who are inspiring a self-love revolution and connecting to our urban youth. Must see for all educatorshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QxXXYD2Pk3Y

Buddhist Monk on Quick Meditation

Meditation is a free and powerful tool that anyone can use. Buddhist Monk, Mingyur Rinpoche, gives us a quick demonstration on how to incorporate it into your daily life in this video. More and more school districts are providing opportunities for their students to mediate. Let's make this nation wide!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkoOCw_tp1I&t=3s

Introduction

Welcome to my blog! I have been an educator for quite some time and I am fascinated with how people learn. I intend to fill this page with anything relating to learning, thinking, brain development, studying, etc.

More to come.