Calming Your Race Car Brain Pt 1: Improving Focus & Attention
In this one-time class, neurodiverse students will learn skills for coping with ADHD behaviors such as attention difficulty, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness through guided relaxation, mindfulness, and controlled breathing.
Mandy Post, M.S.
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(1,955)
Popular
What's included
1 live meeting
30 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
Struggling to pay attention or sit still? In this one-time class, students will learn about how their inattention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity impact them, and practice techniques designed to bring a feeling of focus and peace to their lives. 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 inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity with guidance from the teacher. They will then learn about how their unique brains work, and how their brains actually have "superpowers" because of their unique way of thinking. They will discuss the benefits of having a "race car" brain, as well as how important it is to take good care of their special brains. Sensitive topics will be avoided-only general definitions will be discussed. Students will then learn and practice a deep breathing technique called "Hot Chocolate Breathing." This exercise provides students with positive associations and sensory imagery, and helps them to make sense of their breathing patterns. Slow, deliberate breathing calms the body and the brain, and visualization increases focus. Next, students will participate in a 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 attention issues because an active body makes it easier to focus. This activity will stimulate the prefrontal cortex and help students to focus their wandering attention. 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 how amazing their "race car" brains are, and will be taught techniques to calm and focus their minds using the fundamentals of guided relaxation and deep breathing.
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. Also, please bring an empty cup or mug to class for our deep breathing exercise.
Language of Instruction
English
Joined August, 2020
4.9
1955reviews
Popular
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.Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$14
per classMeets once
30 min
Completed by 786 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 6-11
1-8 learners per class
