What's included
1 live meeting
30 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
Struggling to focus? Are you constantly distracted? In this one-time class, students will learn about how their inattention impacts them, and practice techniques designed to focus their minds when needed. This class is perfect for those who are ready to learn the basics of guided relaxation in a fun, interactive way. No prior knowledge is needed, just a desire to relax! Students will first discuss the definitions of attention and focus with guidance from the teacher. They will then discuss how being distracted can potentially impact their ability to complete tasks. They will also learn about the benefits of of their amazing Sonic brains, and how their brains are specially wired to be creative and imaginative. We will then discuss Sonic the Hedgehog and his stimulation-seeking characteristics. This is a chance for students to share their Sonic knowledge! Next, students will learn a focusing technique called "Chunking." This technique incorporates themes from Sonic's Chaos Emeralds to help students accomplish tasks that require focusing. Students then will participate in another focusing technique called "Beat the Clock." Next, students will participate in a Sonic themed progressive muscle relaxation activity that uses physical relaxation techniques designed to connect their senses to their surroundings. Physical relaxation exercises work well for children with hyperactivity issues because an active body makes it easier to focus. This activity will stimulate the prefrontal cortex and help students to calm their busy bodies. This relaxation activity is especially designed to calm down active bodies if they are having difficulty sleeping at night. Finally, students will have the opportunity to provide the teacher feedback and ask any questions about the relaxation exercise. *Please note that this class is not intended to provide therapy.
Learning Goals
Students will learn techniques to calm and focus their bodies and minds using the fundamentals of guided relaxation and deep breathing. Themes from Sonic the Hedgehog will be incorporated into these techniques.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Sensitive topics will be avoided. If a student brings up a potentially sensitive/mature topic, the teacher will redirect them to more age-appropriate topics.
*Please note that this class is not intended to serve as therapy.
Supply List
Students will need a quiet environment that is free of distractions, as well as a comfortable chair or mat.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
2 Degrees
Master's Degree in Psychology from Augusta State University
Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Angelo State University
Hello all learners and parents! My name is Mandy and I teach classes designed to help children reduce stress and anxiety. I have 18 years of experience using techniques that are research-based and proven to aid in mind/body relaxation. My goal is to help children learn to cope with and manage strong emotions through techniques they can use throughout their lives.
My academic background is in Clinical Psychology. I have both a B.S. and M.S. in Clinical Psychology and have 20 years of experience working with youth. I have worked in a therapeutic setting since 2004, teaching social skills groups, ADHD management groups, relaxation exercises, and play therapy sessions. As a psychometrist, I have extensive experience administering comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations and cognitive rehabilitation assessments, including vision therapy and neurofeedback, with children and adolescents. I have worked with a wide range of diagnoses (ADHD, learning disabilities, physical disabilities, Autism Spectrum disorders, Dyslexia, behavior disorders, etc.), ages (age 2 to adult), and intellectual levels (severely delayed to gifted).
During my time on Outschool, I have taught over 10,000 students, and have been blessed to meet so many learners from different cultures and walks of life. I have also frequently worked with neurodiverse learners both on Outschool and in private practice. My goal as a teacher is to meet students where they are at, as well as celebrate their differences! I will always teach one student classes, so that parents do not have to worry about cancellations.
Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$14
per classMeets once
30 min
Completed by 354 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 6-11
1-8 learners per class