2023 LASE Insight Series Workshop
August 3, 2023
Teachers Play Too! Play-Based Strategies to Promote Positive Mental Health in Teachers
Educators across the country have had to navigate a litany of stressors such as COVID-19 and school shootings. However, we often overlook the mental health effects these stressors have on teachers. This workshop will explore the signs of mental distress in teachers, including the signs of vicarious trauma. Participants will also explore fun, play-based strategies that teachers can engage in, both individually and collectively, to promote positive mental health in and out of the classroom.
Learning objectives:
- List the signs of vicarious trauma
- Create self-care plans to promote positive mental health
- Discuss play-based strategies to implement in schools to support the mental health of educators
Integrating Play into the Classroom to Address the Mental Effects of COVID-19 in Students
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a lasting impact on students of all ages. Studies are starting to show the effects of this pandemic on the academic, social and emotional development of children; however schools are often struggling with knowing the best way to support their students through this mental health crisis. Participants will learn how to support students and their families as they continue to navigate this epidemic, including community resources such as support groups. The workshop will also explore fun, play-based strategies to help promote emotional safety in the classroom, including mindfulness programs to promote self-regulation in both students and teachers.
Learning objectives:
- Analyze behavioral signs that may indicate distress in a student
- Apply play-based strategies in the classroom to promote self-regulation
- Review mindfulness-based programs to implement in the classroom
Dr. April Duncan
Founder & CEO, BMH Connect
Dr. April is a racial trauma expert and leader in her field in advocating for the mental health needs of children. With over ten years of clinical experience, Dr. April has worked collaboratively with various stakeholders in schools, the juvenile justice system and the child welfare system, to teach the importance of recognizing and addressing trauma in children from all backgrounds and the value of play to empower children to heal from their traumatic experiences.
Date/Time
Thursday, August 3, 2023 • 8:00am – 12:30pm
Location
LASE Partner School: St. John’s Lutheran Church
3517 Jeffco Blvd • Arnold, MO 63010
Workshop fees
$25 per attendee from non-LASE Partner Schools
Complimentary for LASE Partner Schools
