Self-care is a phrase we often hear, especially now as individuals and families navigate a new set of routines and expectations. Self-care is any activity that we do deliberately in order to take care of our mental, emotional, and physical health. Effective and consistent self-care is key to a positive mood and mindset in both individuals as well as groups of people such as families. It can also improve relationships with oneself and with others.
In the Montessori studio at Acton Academy, the learners practice self-care in a variety of ways. Many of the practical life activities that take place in the studio fall into the category of “care of self” and are generally aimed at meeting the physical needs of the children. Examples include handwashing, food prep (such as tea making and apple slicing), independent dressing (putting articles of clothing such as shoes, gloves, and coats on and taking them off), and physical movement activities, such as yoga, that address the child’s physical as well as mental and emotional health.
The learners also practice mental and emotional self-care in the studio. This occurs through singing, dancing, arts and crafts projects, reading, and breathing exercises (such as “the candle and the flower” demonstrated here). The learners also have opportunities for self-reflection. The studio’s library is the perfect location for this as it is designed to welcome one child at a time.
Here are some self-care activities that your child can do at home:
