Jan 26, 2018, St. Thomas (Ontario) Times Journal: Mindfulness added to John Wise student skillset http://www.stthomastimesjournal.com/2018/01/26/mindfulness-added-to-john-wise-student-skillset One elementary school in St. Thomas is using an old technique as a new way to enhance the learning environment. John Wise elementary school has been practicing mindfulness techniques under the guidance of its principal, Ryan Ewaskiw. Mindfulness practices including breathing, stretching and other exercises meant to focus one’s attention on the present. … When Ewaskiw started at John Wise he decided to start a mindfulness strategy at the school because he saw a need. … Sandra Chard, school support counsellor, said mindfulness techniques help when students are finding it difficult to engage in the classroom because they’re distracted with thoughts of other things going on in their life. …
Childhood Lost
Children today are noticeably different from previous generations, and the proof is in the news coverage we see every day. This site shows you what’s happening in schools around the world. Children are increasingly disabled and chronically ill, and the education system has to accommodate them. Things we've long associated with autism, like sensory issues, repetitive behaviors, anxiety and lack of social skills, are now problems affecting mainstream students. Blame is predictably placed on bad parenting (otherwise known as trauma from home).
Addressing mental health needs is as important as academics for modern educators. This is an unrecognized disaster. The stories here are about children who can’t learn or behave like children have always been expected to. What childhood has become is a chilling portent for the future of mankind.