Recently, our Counselling Team facilitated a transformative two-day training session titled "The Power of Pause," designed specifically for our IC teachers. The workshop empowered educators to recognize personal classroom triggers and deeply understand how their own emotional reactions influence students and the learning environment.
From Reaction to Response Through reflective case studies and practical strategies, teachers explored how a simple pause can interrupt automatic, stress-induced reactions to create space for thoughtful, constructive responses. The training emphasized that a "pause" looks different for everyone—whether it is taking a deep breath, going for a short walk, embracing silence, using self-talk, or applying grounding techniques.
Cultivating Compassionate Classrooms The core focus of the session was on emotional regulation and self-awareness. By mastering these skills, teachers are better equipped to respond with clarity, calm, and connection rather than stress. This approach not only strengthens teacher wellbeing but also deepens relationships with students, fostering a compassionate classroom management style.
The Wildfire Analogy The training concluded with a powerful analogy: while "sparks" (triggers) in a classroom may be inevitable, they need not turn into a wildfire. By recognizing these sparks early and responding with a pause, we have the power to control the outcome and maintain a safe, nurturing environment for all.