Our second graders have spent the month of January working with Mrs. Oliviera on the practice of mindfulness, practicing self-regulation strategies, and understanding how their actions and behaviors directly impact and influence the reactions and behaviors of others. During their month-long study, the first two weeks were focused on discovering the power behind mindful breathing techniques and each child had a chance to identify the technique that they felt best connected with their needs. Students spent time reflecting on their behaviors and how they have connected to living the WPS Crest. In addition to this, students learned the power behind using words of affirmation with themselves and sharing them with others. In the third week of study, they touched on the science of understanding the three parts of the brain, the amygdala, the hippocampus, and the prefrontal cortex work in connection to our emotions. The final week has been spent exploring the practice of thinking kind thoughts to increase the feelings of empathy and compassion for themselves and others. We are very proud of the work the students are doing with regards to self-regulation, recognizing the power they have to be in control of their happiness, and the power of spreading kindness to others.