Taking Your Seat
This MWE unit plan outlines a wide range of lessons and activities that teachers can use to begin a new year or a new cycle, and to and support students with the process of settling into something new with awareness of their own intentions. In this thematic unit students are invited to be present, find their place in the community, and appreciate how awareness can bring dignity and spaciousness to any endeavor.
Lojong Slogan #28: “Abandon any hope of fruition”
A short video of a 5th grader explaining what this mind-training slogan by Atisha means. An example for what's possible when students are teachers.
Book Review: Sophie Learns to Be Brave
Roshi Joan Halifax wrote Sophie Learns to Be Brave about a young girl and her encounters with a dog who teaches her friendship, presence, loss, and bravery. Sophie and the old dog cross paths in the midst of a wild storm. A mantra helps Sophie through her fears and can help readers through theirs.
Mudras
A downloadable poster of mudras (hand signs) connected to the traditional 8 offerings with aspirations for each one along with some lesson ideas.
The Three Ways Of Listening
This simple lesson about the three ways of listening, based upon the classic "Three Defects of the Pot" teaching can be adapted for students of many ages as a playful way of exploring the connections between attitude and learning.
Secular Buddhism Podcast with Noah Rasheta
An accessible podcast series with 30-40 minute episodes that cover some of Buddhism's most basic tenets from a Zen Buddhist practitioner who is familiar with other traditions. Great for beginners and also seasoned practitioners. MWS often recommends this podcast for curious parents who enroll at the school with limited understanding of Buddhism.
Creating and Using Joy Jars with Children
Joy jars are a fun and effective way to bring awareness to moments that light children up and practice gratitude. This resource includes all the hows and whys, including science based research, prompts, materials to use, and other reflections.
On Mandalas
Mandalas are found in several activities on the MWE website. The subject of mandalas is vast, popular, and often misunderstood. In a short video interview from 2021, Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche presents some of the profound ideas that mandalas represent, which may help educators and parents raise their own understanding of this important Buddhist principle.
Interview: “The Sacred Work of Sandra Cisneros”
Angélica Paljor wrote this interview with Sandra Cisneros published in August, 2022 on Lion’s Roar entitled, “The Sacred Work of Sandra Cisneros.” The author speaks candidly about her own struggles, and how writing has been a practice that has helped transform them. An essential ingredient in Buddhist education is seeing how others integrate their view and practice into their work, art, and lives. Cisneros' example is vital as students work on developing their own voice, and considering how their view and self-expression are inextricable.
Morning Aspiration for Teachers
Teachers at the Middle Way School of the Hudson Valley draw inspiration from this morning prayer co-written by MWE and Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche.