You won't often find Margaret Manson Primary School It was very quiet and some classrooms were empty.
But on Monday, the entire school paused its normal academic schedule and instead participated in a “mindfulness day.”
“It’s a day where we pause all of our schooling and focus on reducing stress,” said Pamela Rotondo, a special education technician.
To achieve this, students participated in a variety of activities – from yoga and tai chi to pet therapy, sound bowls, face painting, balloon making and even a magic show.
Classes rotate working at various stations throughout the day.
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“I think mindfulness is really helpful for kids to express themselves,” said sixth grader Tyson Ito. “If they are stressed, they can relieve it by doing other things like playing with their dog, watching a show or doing yoga.”
This year marks the school’s third annual Mindfulness Day.
The idea was born during the COVID-19 pandemic, when special education technicians noticed that students were having trouble processing their emotions and had high levels of stress and anxiety.
“We actually have a math department exam this week and I know a lot of sixth graders are nervous and I find this day helps us clear our minds and get ready for the exam,” said sixth grader Vienna Papatsakonas.
This helps employees, too.
Teachers and other staff are also welcome to attend the event.
“It helps them reflect on their actions in the moment and refocus on dealing with a test or any stress they may be having in their life,” said Travis Derose, a special education technician.
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