Calming Your Inner Sonic: ADHD Executive Functioning for Reducing Fidgeting

Completed by 4473 learners

Ages 5-10

Live One-Time Class

In this one-time class, students will learn skills for embracing and managing neurodiverse ADHD behaviors such as fidgeting and hyperactivity, through guided relaxation, mindfulness, and controlled breathing.

Mandy Post, M.S.

Average rating:

4.9

Number of reviews:

(2,011 reviews)

Popular

Live video meetings

Meets once

1-9 learners per class

30 min

About Learning Overview Teacher Reviews

What's included

1 live meeting

30 mins in-class hours

Class Experience

Struggling to sit still? Are you constantly fidgeting? In this one-time class, students will learn about how their fidgeting impacts them, and practice techniques designed to calm and still their bodies 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 definition of fidgeting with guidance from the teacher. They will then discuss examples of types of fidgeting, and how fidgeting can potentially impact their ability to focus. They will also learn about the benefits of fidgeting, and how fidgeting can potentially help improve focusing. Please note that there is a great focus on the positive aspects of fidgeting, and an emphasis on only calming fidgeting behaviors if they are not helping us.

We will then discuss Sonic the Hedgehog and his active characteristics. This is a chance for students to share their Sonic knowledge!

Next, students will learn a deep breathing technique called "Sonic Breathing." This technique incorporates both imagery and physical information, and is designed to focus the mind and still the body. This exercise provides students with positive association and helps them to make sense of their breathing patterns. Slow, deliberate breathing calms the body and the brain, and visualization increases focus. This breathing exercise utilizes movement, so it works in conjunction with productive fidgeting.

Students will then 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.

Language of Instruction

English

External Resources

Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.

Meet the teacher

Mandy Post, M.S.

Joined August, 2020

4.9

2011reviews

Popular

Profile

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 15 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 anxiety 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, 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, 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.