In both our own minds and in the lives of our students, creating even a small distance from our thoughts can make a big difference. As teachers, the more we can notice and gently let go of our own unhelpful thoughts, the more we can guide our students to do the same—helping them find calm, focus, and resilience in the classroom and beyond.
“I’m Thinking That…” Technique
Sometimes a thought circles in our mind over and over again.
For example:
“This child never listens to me; maybe they don’t respect me.”
In that moment, gently say to yourself:
“Right now, I’m having the thought that ‘This child doesn’t respect me.’”
This phrase gives you a breath of space between you and the thought. Instead of being caught inside it, you become the observer.
Perhaps the child is tired, distracted, or has another need.
Similarly:
“I’m not a good teacher.”
In that moment, try:
“Right now, I’m having the thought that ‘I’m not a good teacher.’”
Then ask yourself:
- Is this absolutely true?
- Could this be just a possibility?
- Could the opposite also be true?
These moments of awareness help us see that thoughts are temporary.
For Children: “My Mind Balloon” Practice
Using the image of a balloon is a playful and effective way to show children that thoughts come and go.
1. Imagine a Balloon
Tell your students:
“We all have an invisible balloon above our head. Every thought we have gets written inside it. For example: ‘This math is so hard!’ or ‘The teacher will be upset with me.’”
2. Notice the Thought
When a thought appears, place your hands over your head as if holding your balloon.
“Right now, I’m having the thought that: _________.”
(For example: “I can’t do this lesson.”)
3. Let the Balloon Go
Open your hands as if releasing the balloon into the sky.
This reminds them that thoughts are not permanent.
4. Ask Yourself
As the balloon drifts away, silently ask:
“Is this absolutely true? Or is it just a thought?”
When to Use It:
- Before a test
- When feeling anxious in class
- During a conflict with a friend
- When thinking “I can’t do this”
This practice supports students’ emotional resilience and helps teachers create a safe emotional environment in the classroom.
Reminder: Our thoughts are like balloons— we can notice them, hold them for a moment, and let them go. Every thought will pass; what matters is creating that breath of space in between.
By simply noticing a thought and giving it a name, we take back our power over it. We remember that we are not our thoughts—just as clouds drift across the sky, our thoughts come and go.
Whether you’re guiding a classroom full of energetic students or navigating your own busy mind, these small practices create space for kindness, perspective, and choice. The more we practice, the more natural it becomes to meet each moment— and each person— with calm curiosity.
So next time a thought tries to sweep you away, pause, breathe, and let it float by. You might be surprised by how light you feel when you no longer have to hold on.