Teaching in the Anxious Era: Tools for Awareness, Support and Resilience

**New Course**

Summer 2026: August 3^rd-7^th

Instructor: Kim Kittredge, kkittredgeliips@gmail.com

Class Description:

This course discusses anxiety and why it has been rising in students over the past several years.  Educators will explore how student anxiety is increasing due to a shift from play-based to phone-centered activities, creating a landscape of real-world overprotection and virtual underprotection. Teachers will work to address rising levels of anxiety, depression, and social comparison; where they prioritize phone-free learning environments, promote meaningful in-person interaction, and strengthen student resilience. Through guided discussions and collaborative activities, participants will learn how to cultivate learning environments that reduce stressors, foster healthy social connections, and promote meaningful in-person interaction. A major emphasis of the course is on building student resilience—helping learners develop the tools to navigate challenges, manage emotions, and build confidence. Teachers will explore practical approaches such as creating phone-free classroom routines, strengthening classroom communities, and embedding supportive, relationship-centered practices into everyday instruction. By the end of the course, educators will be equipped with a variety of strategies to reduce anxiety, nurture resilience, and create a supportive where every student can thrive. This course is a must for all educators grades K–12.