'Power Control Center' helps students cope with stress in the classroom

Tools

student stress releasing program

Jenna Dedomenico, 9, works on deep breathing and stress releasing strategies. (CNN photo)

By Tiffany Griffin

Story Created: Mar 27, 2008 at 9:05 AM EST

Story Updated: Mar 27, 2008 at 10:25 AM EST

(CNN) — Elementary students are now learning how to control stress in the classroom by deciding when they need a time out.

Grace Noone has more on the "Power Control Center" and explains why your children might like it.

Jenna DeDomenico is only 9 years old but already she's coping with stress.

“Your feelings are controlling you. That's a bad thing so you need to come here and calm yourself,” said DeDomenico.

"Here" is the Power Control Center, a station set up with instructions for breathing exercises and muscle relaxation. There’s also a mood card to check your progress — because sometimes children can't sit still and classrooms aren't always as quiet as they should be.

“This is something good. It tells them that if something's bothering you, you don't lash out at somebody. You don't have to call somebody a name and hit them,” said Carol Giuliano.

In fact, second grade teacher Carol Giuliano uses the power control center method every day after lunch. It takes about 5 minutes to complete.

The techniques the students are learning certainly are helping them in the classroom. But the skills can also help them at home with the stress they encounter there.

“Whenever I'm sad or angry I just ask my teacher to come here,” Michael Ramos.

Michael Ramos used to get into fights. Now he goes to the Power Center for a self-imposed time out. Principal Marvin Feldberg says the benefits are endless.

“It will get the teacher through the lesson. It will help the child get through the day and help the child return to an atmosphere of learning.”

More Good Stuff

WSBT Weather

icon
Current Temp 38.7
°
More Weather

On Demand

More On Demand

Stock Quotes

YouNews

This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.
This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.

Tonight On WSBTFull Schedule

7.00
Wheel of Fortune
7.30
Jeopardy!
8.00
How I Met Your Mother
8.30
Accidentally On Purpose
9.00
Two and a Half Men
9.30
Big Bang Theory
10.00
CSI: Miami
11.00
WSBT News
11.35
Late Show with David Letterman

Question of The Day

Will the new health recommendations for women change your health screening habits?

E-mail your comments. We'll pick some to read during WSBT News at 5.

  • YES
  • NO
Today's Mortgage Rates