Small Practices, Big Impact: Tools for Well-Being
This session explores brief interventions that strengthen mindfulness, resilience, optimism, gratitude, and self-efficacy, providing educators with opportunities to create supportive and compassionate learning environments.
Presented by:
Shari Lowe, Mid Michigan College
Maria Gross, Mid Michigan College
From the author, in their own words...
Shari Lowe, Mid Michigan College
Maria Gross, Mid Michigan College
Transcript:
Discover and use evidence-based strategies that strengthen resilience and encourage optimism, gratitude, and compassion in the classroom. This presentation offers small, intentional practices educators can use immediately to support student well-being and build a positive learning climate - without adding significant time or workload. Ideas include tools for a Mental Health Toolbox, how to find the Bright Side, how to Grow Grit, and how to find Glimmers. Student quotes demonstrate the positive impact of these strategies. These are ready-to-use techniques that can be easily integrated across diverse learning environments.
Abstract:
Discover and use evidence-based strategies that strengthen resilience and encourage optimism, gratitude, and compassion in the classroom. This session offers small, intentional practices educators can use immediately to support student well-being and build a positive learning climate, without adding significant time or workload. Attendees will leave with ready-to-use techniques that can be easily integrated across diverse learning environments.
Key Words:
Mindfulness, Resilience, Self-Efficacy
Outcomes:
1. Identify and experience at least three brief strategies that promote student mindfulness, optimism, and gratitude in classroom settings.
2. Apply at least two small, intentional practices to support student well-being and enhance a compassionate learning environment.
3. Implement strategies from this session directly in their classroom practice.
References:
Barwick-Snell, K. (2024). Becoming Aware 15th Edition (15th ed.). Kendall Hunt.
Gross, M. & Lowe, S. (2025). Mental Health and Wellness: Students Speak Up. Cognella Academic Publishing.
Sorensen, S. (2021, June 5). From Grit to Greatness. Arete Coach. https://www.aretecoach.io/post/from-grit-to-greatness
Riggio, R. E., PhD. (2022, April 23). How is grit related to leadership? Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/cutting-edge-leadership/202204/what-is-grit-and-do-you-have-it
Winnig, S. (2023, July 14). Growing from Adversity. Therapist Aid. https://www.therapistaid.com/therapy-article/how-to-build-resilience