A Teacher's Story about How Equilibre Methods Have Improved the Learning Environment in Her Classroom

My name is Claire Hamilton-Aron and I have been working with Sophie Caballero since the fall of 2007.  I am a fifth grade teacher at the International Community School in Decatur, GA.   On a personal level, I came to see Sophie to help manage my personal anxiety and stress.  Anxiety and stress are common amongst public school teachers.  As I noticed changes within myself, I thought that Sophie’s methods could benefit my students as well.  About two years ago, and began to incorporate these methods into short periods of time (3-10 minutes) a few days a week in my classroom. 

It has made such a positive difference that I have summarized how I used the Equilibre techniques and how both my students and I have benefited in hopes that others will have the opportunity to use this method in their schools.

Equilbre Techniques I Use in the Classroom

For short periods of time (3-10 minutes) a few days a week, I practice these methods with my students:

These methods include:

-stretching

-deep breathing

-visualizations

-experiencing calm and silence

-use of racquet balls and short strings to help stretch and relax body parts

-discussions of stress and anger management techniques 

Changes in Behaviors and Classroom Atmosphere

In many ways, children are just like adults.  They experience stress, anxiety, fears, and worries.  At my school, we have many students who are refugees and immigrants, and they have experienced personal trauma well beyond the imagination of most American adults.  The earlier they can be taught to manage these feelings, the more well-adjusted they become and can manage life better.  What a gift to give our children!  After just a few weeks, I noticed changes in my students.  These include:

-less time spent managing conflicts

-more time on task

-students asking to "to go breathe and be calm” when they are upset

-increased focus

-students asking to have “five minutes of silence”

-less chaos in general 

How Equilibre Techniques Benefits Me as a Teacher

As I continue to work with Sophie and her “Equilibre” method, I have noticed in myself (in relation to the classroom):

-increased ability to prioritize when faced with many tasks

-less raising of my voice or yelling

-better communication of my feelings when I need students to change their behaviors

-more focus on students who need extra help and support

-modeling stress and anger management skills for my students

-a more positive attitude

-feeling less tired and exhausted

I hope you will consider allowing Sophie to share her knowledge and gifts with your staff as she has done for me and the staff of ICS!  She is truly a treasure and her work will improve your life at work and home!

Sincerely,

Claire Hamilton-Aron

claire.hamilton@intcomschool.org