As the school year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time for educators to reflect on the journey they’ve shared with their students and to foster a sense of closure and appreciation. Incorporating Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and mindfulness activities into your end-of-year routine can help students process their experiences and emotions, and prepare for the transition to the next grade.
Three meaningful activities can enhance this time of year: “Notes to Next Year,” an inspiring way for students to share advice with their future peers; “Appreciation Circle,” a heartfelt exercise in expressing gratitude; and “Rose & Thorn Activity,” a reflective practice to acknowledge both the highs and lows of the school year.
1. Notes for Next Year
Students write about essential insights and advice that next year’s class might find valuable. They can also share moments of inspiration, joy, and connection they experienced throughout the year.
The teacher then compiles these notes into a collection to present to the incoming class the following year.
2. Appreciation Circle
Encourage your students to form a circle. Each student is asked to share something that they appreciate about the person on their right.
Once the circle is completed, the process is reversed, and you share something appreciated by the person on the left.
3. Roses & Thorns
“Roses and Thorns” is a reflective practice conducted at the end of the school year. Roses represent positive experiences, while Thorns symbolize the negative or challenging moments encountered.
Encouraging students to reflect on their Roses and Thorns allows them to practice gratitude while also acknowledging and holding space for the difficulties they faced.
These activities not only celebrate the end of the academic year but also promote a mindful and emotionally aware classroom environment.
