For Classroom Or Home Use
Give young children a strong foundation for future learningWhat young children learn before their formal education profoundly affects their performance in school and the rest of their lives. Research shows acquiring social and emotional skills early is essential for success in today’s classrooms. Early HeartSmarts is fun and engaging and was scientifically developed for children ages 3-6 so they could learn fun, simple, but powerful skills that build a strong foundation for their future years of learning. Children learn about working together in small groups, problem-solving, creativity, emotion self-regulation and the importance of the heart as Early HeartSmarts eases the transition from the home to the classroom environment. Cutting-edge science and research at the Institute of HeartMath and by other entities over the past 20 years are incorporated in this program, which precedes the HeartSmarts program released last year for grades 3-5. IHM is an international leader in stress reduction and emotion management techniques and technology and has established that the heart plays a central role in optimizing the body’s cognitive, sensory, hormonal and information processing systems.
Early HeartSmarts Program Materials:
Teacher’s Guide: The instructor manual provides all the essential information to successfully implement the program. Each of the eleven lessons is organized with overview, objectives, materials, teaching tips, activities and suggested dialogue. Support pieces at the end of each lesson include the parent connection, additional ideas and activities and recommended books. Song Lyrics, Parent Letters, and Follow Up practices are featured in the last section of this guide for easy access and additional support.
Introductory DVD:The short, narrated PowerPoint presentation introduces core concepts, skills, and materials.
Music CD:Besides a heartbeat sound, there are six engaging songs and an instrumental version of “A Little Wheel Turning in My Heart.”
Anatomical Model Heart:The squishy, anatomically correct heart serves as a physical model for conversation about the functions of the heart.
Bear Heart Puppet: The puppet plays a crucial role as facilitator and teacher in the program. Use a normal, pleasant voice when speaking through the puppet in lessons. This puppet is surface-washable only. Use lukewarm water and sponge with Woolite® or other mild laundry detergent to wet and lather fur. Rinse surface with sponge. Dry by gently squeezing between towels. After it’s dry, brush with wire dog brush to fluff the fur.
Stethoscope: This instructional device is to be used only under adult supervision and guidance. Children should not be left alone to play with this device. Instructions and cautions are printed on the box.
Heart Ball: Heart Ball uses the fun of play (a gentle game of catch) to help children express positive emotions. Surface washable.
Heart Pillow: This fluffy red pillow with the blue hand invites children to use it when feeling upset or out of sorts. They can either hold it to their chest or sit on it while practicing one of the self-regulation techniques. Surface washable.
The Kissing Hand (Children's Book): This classic story that wonderfully illustrates the power of positive emotions in relationships.
Photo Emotion Cards: 10 cards that help children better identify five different emotional states. The cards are spaced out over three lessons.
Emotion Spinner: Children’s knowledge and understanding of different emotions through several fun activities is expanded.
Problem-Solving Cards: Six cards showing typical age-related situations are presented to children over three lessons to help activate problem-solving choices and skills.
Problem-Solving Poster: This graphic illustrates three steps that can help guide students in the problem-solving processes.
Heart Stickers: Two sheets of heart stickers for Kissing Hand activities.
Why Heart-Based Education?HeartMath research has identified a measurable physiological state that underlies optimal learning and performance. In this state, our emotions are calm, and our brain, nervous system and other bodily systems function with increased synchronization and harmony. In simple terms, we’re highly in sync – physically, mentally and emotionally. This in turn, facilitates the higher cognitive processes critical for focusing attention, reasoning and creativity – all essential for effective learning, academic achievement and social success.
Research Says Students who experience Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) for School Performance:- Improve math, literacy and social studies skills
- Have higher achievement test scores and grades and no decreases in standardized test scores
- Improve learning-to-learn skills
- Develop better problem-solving and planning ability
- Use higher-level reasoning strategies
- Show improvement in reading comprehension
Research Says Students who experience Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) for School Behaviors:- Participate more in class
- Demonstrate more pro-social behavior
- Have fewer absences and improved attendance
- Show reductions in aggression and disruptions
- Are on track to graduate and less likely to drop out
- Are more likely to work out their own way of learning
Research Says Students who experience Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) for School Attitudes:- Have a stronger sense of community
- Exhibit higher academic motivation and educational aspirations
- Show better understanding of consequences of behavior
- Have greater ability to cope with school stressors
- Show more positive attitudes toward school and learning
School quantity discounts for Teacher’s KitCall toll free in U.S. (800) 711-6221 or e-mail info@heartmath.org
For site license pricing: Call toll free in the U.S. (800) 711-6221 or e-mail info@heartmath.org
