Creating an Environment Conducive to Concentration

by admin on August 31, 2008

  • Fill it with beautiful materials that call the child to activity.
  • Get to know each child and create lessons that will appeal to their interest.
  • Be tireless in giving presentations.  You are their link to the environment.  Model concentration and joy of work when giving lessons.
  • Once children are engaged in an activity, DO NOT INTERRUPT, even if they are doing it wrong, unless what they are doing is dangerous, destructive, or disruptive (i.e., the concentration is more important than whether or not the child is working from left to right).
  • Teach grace and courtesy lessons and establish clear guidelines for respecting others at work.
    Model a love of work…every once in a while, do one of your favorite lessons by yourself, in full view of the children, just for the joy of it.
  • Encourage a peaceful tone in the classroom with quiet music and by always presenting a calm and quiet demeanor.
  • Stop and redirect children who are being disruptive.  Be consistent!
  • Use yoga, balancing exercises, and walking on the line to help the children learn to control their bodies and make themselves very still.
  • Use creative visualizations to help children utilize their inner powers of vision and creativity.
  • Create an art table or art lessons that allow one child at a time to become totally focused in a creative process.
  • Create a quiet corner in your classroom for children and adults to take time alone to reflect.  Make sure you go there sometimes to model the value of taking time out.
  • Create opportunities for children to do meaningful work outside, such as gardening.
    Provide opportunities for children to talk about their best work.
  • Take time every day to step back and reflect and see the class as a whole.
  • Keep a journal or find another means for on-going personal reflection.

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