This term the focus on in Scoil Ursula is on the mental health and wellbeing of our pupils. Mental health is a state of well-being in which the individual realises his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully and is able to make a contribution to his or her own community.
Positive mental health for children is part of their overall health and is inextricably linked with wellbeing.
One of the most important settings for the promotion of a young person’s mental health and well-being is the school.  Mental health should permeate all aspects of school life and learning.
Our school aims to put systems in place to promote mental health and well-being and thus build resilience in both staff and students, to help prepare them to cope with a range of life experiences.

Our focus on mental health begins with Mindfulness – a practice that encourages our pupils to give their minds a ‘break’ from the busyness of everyday events and to focus their awareness on the present moment and acknowledging their feelings thoughts and bodily sensations. This activity increases their capacity to be still and focused, feel good about themselves,  acknowledge their self worth, and  show compassion and understanding towards others.

Online guided mindfulness activities are available on www.goonoodle.com , www.mindbodygreen.com , www.mindfulnessmatters.com , www.calm.com , www.leftbrainbuddha.com , www.annakaharris.com
Mindfulness books: Sitting Still Like a Frog/ I can Feel My Toes Breathe!