Did you know that teaching students to understand their body signals can help them stay calm and focused in the classroom? By using a simple acronym called H.A.L.T., students can learn to recognize and respond to their body signals before they become overwhelming.
So, what is H.A.L.T. you ask? Well, it stands for Hungry, Angry, Lonely, and Tired. These are common sensations that we all experience, but students may not always recognize them as body signals. When they do recognize these sensations, it prevents their threat system from activating and allows them to stay focused on learning.
By helping students to understand and respond to their body signals, it improves their executive functioning, which means they can learn and retain information better. Plus, when students feel more regulated and focused, it creates a more positive and productive learning environment for everyone in the classroom.
So, let’s give our students the tools they need to succeed by teaching them about their body signals and using H.A.L.T. to prevent dysregulation. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
Jen Jim is passionate about getting the tools for mental wellness to everyone who needs it. Although it’s never too late to learn, getting these tools to children means the upcoming generation is poised for change. And that makes her so excited! She has a M.S. in Education, and worked as a mental health therapist for 18yrs including child and family therapy and intensive in-home work with children with severe emotional diagnoses in the foster care system. She has taught undergrad and graduate courses in psychology as an adjunct.