Three Lobstering Tips for the Classroom
Some might say I failed today. I took the kayak out to catch lobsters, but came home with an empty bag. John Dewey says it best;
"Failure is instructive. The person who really thinks, learns quite as much from his failures as from his successes."
Here are three lessons learned from my hunt that can be transferred into the classroom.
MAKE A LIST - Every new activity requires equipment or gear.
What lists help you stay organized?
ANCHOR YOURSELF - Carry a small anchor to stay grounded when the strong winds and currents want to take you off-course.
What anchors you in the classroom when gusty winds blow? Can you find your breath?
LEARN KNOT TYING SKILLS - This water survival skill helps coordination and challenges the brain to think in new ways while increasing focus.
Add knot tying to your SEL lesson while using the book, Breathe and Stretch on the Beach. During Friends Eating Oyster Pose, allow partners to practice tying a knot. See instruction video below.
Breathe and Stretch on the Beach is an interactive listening and movement game that helps children build focus, confidence, calmness, and self-awareness through playful stretching and positive self-talk. Designed for ages 3 and up, this engaging resource can be used in the classroom, counseling groups, therapy settings, or at home by teachers, counselors, parents, and caregivers.
After learning the beach-themed poses, a leader calls out poses in any order, encouraging participants to listen carefully, move mindfully, and practice deep breathing, stretching, and relaxation. Children stay engaged while developing important social-emotional and self-regulation skills in a fun, active way.
Participants will:
Understand and practice controlled breathing
Respect personal space by moving safely without touching others
Strengthen self-control using nonverbal communication
Improve focus and attention
Increase self-awareness
Replace negative self-talk with positive self-talk
Build joy, strength, gratitude, and confidence
Each pose is paired with empowering affirmations so children can embody positive mindsets as they move. Examples include:
Coconut Tree, Eagle, Airplane – I am focused
Sports Boat, Charge Your Battery, Flying Fish – I am full of energy
Hurricane – I step aside for others
Crab – I let my light shine
Paddleboard – I am responsible for what I say, think, and do
Breathe and Stretch on the Beach is a joyful way to help children move their bodies, calm their minds, and grow strong from the inside out.