Space + Quiet+ Connection =
The Peaceful Recess Project
At Unionville Meadows Public School, we recognize the need to create welcoming, conscious and peaceful spaces in schools. Our staff members have made a commitment to create a peaceful space for children at recess.
The Vision:
The vision behind the Peaceful Recess Project is simple: Many children and adults need moments of restoration in their day to reset their nervous systems, to connect back with themselves, and to have a break from stimulation. If they receive this opportunity to “reset,” they are able to make better decisions, to focus, and to access their creativity. There are 3 simple components to this vision…
SPACE +
A Peaceful Recess space is consciously created to foster relaxation and a sense of belonging. Teachers who open up their classrooms understand that calm is contagious and that a sense of belonging can be felt even without spoken words. Everyone has chosen to be there and they act in a respectful, caring way towards themselves and the people that are sharing the space.
QUIET +
The children and adults settle into the space without speaking and choose a quiet activity that is relaxing to them (e.g. colouring, reading, meditating, writing etc.). The lights are low, the music is soft, and there is as little stimulation as possible.
CONNECTION
Children are welcomed by a calm adult with a smile and eye contact so that they feel seen. This is critical. Some children go through the whole day without being really seen. The teacher holds in his/her heart that gentle, consistent moments of connection are a simple balm for anxiety and feelings of isolation.