Everyone needs a mantra, word, phrase, or quote that they can readily turn to in times of stress or doubt. Becky Bailey introduced STAR to me long ago, and I have shared it with many early educators:
Stop and Smile
Take a deep breath
And
Relax
This simple mantra has taken me through many of life’s challenges beyond the classroom. Learning to stop gives your brain time to shift. Smiling helps your body to relax. Taking a breath gives much-needed oxygen for our best thinking, and literally telling your body to relax releases tension and brings calm. Use your mantra to quickly find that inner peace and calm needed for decision making and action.
In loving memory of Gryphon House author Leanne Grace, MEd, we are sharing pieces of her inspirational writing every Wednesday. Leanne was the director of professional development at Hildebrandt Learning Centers and a lifelong advocate for early childhood education. She inspired the early childhood community to prepare children as lifelong learners with her ability to find the extraordinary in the ordinary. One person can make a difference, and Leanne did just that. She will be sorely missed.
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