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Find out moreAccording to a survey by the National Medical Research Center for Children's Health of the Ministry of Health, 80% of schoolchildren noted a deterioration in their mental health during self-isolation and distance learning. Therefore, teachers need to pay special attention to the mental health of both their students and their own. In some schools, mental health issues began to arise even before the pandemic, and this experience should be taken into account in the current situation. It is important to create a supportive atmosphere conducive to psychological well-being to help children overcome the difficulties associated with the change in the learning format.
We present five TED talks in which teachers, psychologists, and activists share their ideas on how to integrate mental well-being into the educational process. All lectures are presented in English, while some have Russian subtitles, and others in English. These talks provide valuable tools and techniques for creating a more supportive and caring learning environment.
The dangers of perfectionism during school
The education system begins to shape children's perception of grades from the very first grade. At this age, they become accustomed to constant evaluation and ranking. As a result, they develop the habit of perceiving their lives through the prism of grades, percentiles, and report cards. This leads to the fact that schoolchildren and students striving for perfection begin to see failures even in their successes, because they can always find an opportunity to do something better. British social psychologist Thomas Curran emphasizes that societal perfectionism negatively affects the psychological health of young people. It is important to explain to children that failures are a natural part of life and an important step towards personal growth and development.
How to Care for Teachers' Mental Health
What is the most challenging aspect of teaching? Planning lessons precisely, preparing engaging material, or assigning fair grades? According to Sydney Jensen, the real challenge is being responsible for those aspects of students' lives that remain beyond a teacher's control. Jensen, who works at a Lincoln school in Nebraska, has faced tragic events, including the suicide of two students and a colleague. She took all the problems of her charges personally, but at times it was too difficult, and she needed support. In her lecture, Jensen emphasizes the importance of every teacher having someone to turn to for help during difficult times. She also discusses the phenomenon of "compassion fatigue" and offers strategies to help teachers cope with it.
How to Help Students with Psychological Trauma
Lisa Godwin was an outstanding student at her school, actively participating in various activities and even driving the school bus. It was almost impossible to kick her out of school, even in the evening. However, no one wondered why she was not interested in chores or spending time with friends. In fact, Lisa stayed late at school because she had experienced violence as a child, and this educational institution became one of the few safe spaces for her. It was at school that caring teachers and social workers helped her cope with the trauma. Now, as a teacher, Godwin shares her expertise, demonstrating how to support children in overcoming their psychological problems and create a safe environment for them.
How to Teach Children to Understand Their Emotions
D. was a difficult student who was aggressive toward teachers, flipped tables, and disrupted other children's learning. Olimpia Della Flora, the principal of the school where this boy studied, had long been looking for ways to engage such children in the educational process. She came to an important conclusion: learning should include not only reading and writing skills, but also emotional management. After discussing with colleagues, Della Flora developed a practical plan to help based on this idea. To implement the plan, fidget spinners, yoga mats, and rocking chairs were purchased. This approach positively affected not only the children's emotional state, but also their academic achievements. The implementation of these methods has become an example of an effective approach to teaching that promotes the development of both emotional intelligence and academic skills.
