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Classroom Structure & Polyvagal Schools / ep12 show notes


TOPIC - CLASSROOM STRUCTURE

This is the Polyvagal Schools series, part 3 of 5


The teachers with the best structure, combined with the most Polyvagal cues of safety have the calmest classes.

Structure within routine/schedule

  • Consistency = stability = safety

  • Don’t abandon the structure if “it doesn’t work”

Structure within visual environment

Visual clutter

Actual clutter

  • Organization = stability = safety

Consequences

Must be consistent. And, more importantly, enforced with love (safety)

  • Use cues of safety simultaneously

Suspensions don’t do anything for the kid in trouble

  • Are more for the safety of the school and class for major rule violations

  • The kids that get suspensions don’t care

  • In-school separation might be more sustainable

Do not discipline around the other kids

  • Pull aside, talk 1:1 in private

  • Put a positive spin on it

Structure must include flexibility built-in to meet student needs

  • alternative seating, fidget objects, movement, quiet/break space

  • Play!

  • Changes need to be announced and normalized

Fidgets

Whole class should have access

To have a physical outlet for our energy

To help us focus


Quiet Spaces

To get space

Quiet, personal time until ready to return





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