Mental Wellness Ideas for Teacher Wishlists

It’s that time of year when teachers are gearing up to go back to school. A new trend I LOVE is teachers posting a wishlist for those who want to help. These lists also give great ideas for those wishing to show appreciation any time of the year.

I have compiled a list of a few things that may be different from the first items that come to mind for a classroom (or anywhere else in the building). These items can be a saving grace for many students with anxiety, ADHD, or low self-esteem, among other obstacles to learning. These are great for educators to help with behavior management and relationship building.

Calming strips

Fidgets are great for kids but can be very distracting to other kids in the classroom (and sometimes to the teachers). I still think that fidgets can be helpful, and some types are less distracting; however, I understand why some teachers prefer to leave them out of the class. 

These calming strips are a great alternative. Kids can place them on their computers, phones, desks, or folders. When anxious or distracted, they can feel the texture, which has a calming effect. They also make some with relaxation strategies like 5-4-3-2-1 or Star Breathing.

Positive notes

When I worked in the schools, we added “positive reinforcement” to many 504 plans as an accommodation. In reality, every student needs positive reinforcement, ESPECIALLY those that present with behavioral issues. If you can start pointing out what they are doing right, they will eventually seek positive attention rather than the negative (hopefully, it will also spread into the home).

You can purchase sticky notes or other notepads or get creative and make your own. It takes five positive comments to outweigh every negative, and many students who misbehave are weighed down by the negative at school and home. Giving these notes are a great way to start a positive shift.

Affirmation stickers

Along the same lines, affirmation stickers are great for all ages. Students can put them on their laptops, water bottles, or backpacks. They are not very expensive, kids love them, and they are a great reminder of how much you care about them.

Weighted ANYTHING

You have probably heard of weighted blankets, but have you heard of weighted stuffed animals? Weighted blankets and weighted lap pads work too, but sometimes it is nice to have something reminiscent of a pet to calm anxiety. Kids of all ages will benefit from any of these.

I know what you’re thinking; this will cause issues because every student will want a turn. You’re right. It’s going to be a hit, but you can get creative. You can make it a reward or have a signup sheet. You can also be discreet and bring it out when you notice a student struggling. 

Coloring books and colored pencils

Coloring books may not be something you would want to bring out during instruction, but they work wonders for students that struggle with anxiety. Believe it or not, they can help with focus too. It may be a coping mechanism if you see a student doodling in class. Be cautious about getting onto students for it because it could be what’s helping them hold it together!

Alternative seating

Several years ago, I bought a cheap papasan chair from the college section at Target and placed it in the corner of my office. Almost every autistic student who came to see me would sit in that chair. They likely chose it for two main reasons; it was a little further away, so they did not feel as much pressure, and it wrapped around them, so they felt safer.

We are way past the days of everyone sitting the same way, learning the same way, and working the same way. It is unrealistic to expect everyone to fit into the same square regarding school. Bean bags, wobble chairs, ball chairs, and wiggle seats are all things that can help students with ADHD or sensory issues.

These are just suggestions based on what I have learned and experienced to be helpful for students that struggle with emotional regulation. This post is not intended to be professional counseling or clinical advice.

If you need support with behavior management, please consider speaking to an administrator or a behavior specialist in your district. If you notice it is affecting your mood, please get in touch with me to see how I can help with your journey!