At Parley’s Park Elementary, educators are implementing Conscious Discipline, a social emotional program designed to help students build self-regulation skills by understanding and managing their emotions. The concept is based on brain research that shifts the focus from traditional discipline using consequences to stop a certain behavior to a relationship model focused on self-control, empathy, and connection to work through conflicts. One example Parley’s has used to teach these skills is through newly installed playground art installations called “Time Machines.”
“We decided to bring the Time Machines to the playground to give students a concrete, supportive tool for resolving conflicts in real time,” said Parley’s counselor Heidi Gwinn. “Since many social struggles and disagreements happen during recess, we wanted to provide a visual and physical space for students to practice the Conscious Discipline steps they learn in Life Skills. The Time Machines support student wellness by teaching emotional regulation, empathy, communication, and problem-solving in a safe and structured way.”
Funded by a PCEF Express Grant, local muralist Emily Miquelon painted the Time Machines. She created two playground locations – each with both English and Spanish versions – to ensure accessibility for all students.
The installation was completed just weeks ago and students are beginning to use them. “Sometimes they walk over on their own when they recognize a conflict, and other times a teacher or recess aide will guide them there if they see students need help working through something,” Heidi said, depending on the problem. “The process usually involves students standing on the mat, using the scripted language they’ve learned, (‘I don’t like it when…’ / ...’Next time I will…’), taking deep breaths, and agreeing on a solution with adult support if needed.”
Photo: Parley’s fourth graders are following the steps (below) for using the Time Machine.
- Roll back time
- Ask for willingness to solve the problem
- Breathe as a S.T.A.R. (Smile, Take a deep breath, And Relax)
- Wish each other well with the “Tree of Hearts”
- Unite by saying “Let’s do it!”
- State the problem and desired solution (“I don’t like it when you… Next time please…”)
- Connect with a kind gesture to show there are no hard feelings
While it might be too early to tell if the Time Machine prompts are making an impact, the hope is students will be more likely to try solving problems without escalating to a teacher or walking away upset.
“The goal is for students to take more ownership of their behavior and be more willing to listen to each other, Heidi said. “Overall, it should create a more supportive and emotionally safe playground environment.”
PCEF proudly supports educator-inspired initiatives like this one that strengthen student wellness, and new, meaningful learning opportunities throughout our schools.
