By: Shasta Smith, Communications Manager, Florida Virtual School

Daily wellness practices empower students and families to manage stress and stay connected.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and the Florida Virtual School (FLVS) Student Services team is hosting a weeklong series of activities and support for students and families May 11–15. 

Each day features a quick, self‑paced activity (mindfulness, movement, social connection, nutrition, and stress management) plus two live sessions, one for students and one for parents. Even a few minutes a day can make a meaningful difference.

“Research consistently shows that small, daily habits, like movement, mindfulness, and staying connected, play an important role in supporting students’ mental health,” said Dr. Amy Hall, Mental Health and Student Services Administrator at FLVS. “When students have simple tools to manage stress and build emotional skills, it can make a meaningful difference in how they feel, learn, and engage each day.”

Monday, May 11: Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is the practice of focusing on the present moment without judgment. Regular practice can improve concentration, reduce anxiety, and support emotional regulation.

Self-paced:

• Sit in a comfortable position.
• Breathe in through your nose for a count of three.
• Breathe out through your mouth for a count of six.
• Repeat.

Tuesday, May 12: Lean into Social Connections

Maintaining positive relationships supports a sense of belonging, improves mood, and builds resilience.

Self-paced:

• Set aside device-free time to catch up with someone. Ask open-ended questions.
• Reach out to a friend you haven't spoken to in a while.
• Thank a teacher, coach, friend, or family member.

Wednesday, May 13: Movement for your Mood 

Physical activity supports mental and physical health by boosting mood, improving energy and sleep, reducing stress, and strengthening the mind‑body connection.

Self-paced:

• Take a 10-minute walk.
• Stretch or try a short yoga session.
• Put on a favorite song and dance.

Live Student Session:

Students are invited to join the Student Services team for live virtual sessions focused on building social connection, communication skills, and a sense of belonging.

• Elementary: Lunch Bunch at noon EST (Join Zoom, password: sharks)
• Middle: Connections Session at noon EST (Join Zoom, password: FLVSMS)
• High: Connections Session at 12:30 p.m. EST (Join Zoom, password: ALLWELCOME)

Thursday, May 14: Mindful Eating 

Paying attention to what and how you eat can greatly improve energy and focus, support brain function, build healthy habits, and help you feel more in control of your choices. 

Self-paced

• Eat one snack without scrolling on your phone.
• Notice the taste, texture, and smell of your food.
• Drink an extra glass of water today.
• Choose one balanced meal or snack.

Friday, May 15: Stress Management Skills 

Learning ways to calm your body and mind can improve mood, help manage daily stress and anxiety, lower heart rate, build resilience, and support clearer thinking.

Live Parent Session:

• Parents and adult family members are invited to join the Student Services team for a live session to discuss self-care strategies for parents and activity ideas to keep children engaged throughout the summer.
• Summer Survival Goals at 11:30 a.m. EST (Join Zoom, password: ALLWELCOME)

Self-paced:

• Practice deep breathing: inhale for four counts, hold for four, exhale for four.
• Write down three things for which you’re grateful.
• Take a short break when you feel overwhelmed.

Additional Support

The Student Services team is available at any time to talk with students and families about academic, social‑emotional, and mental health and to provide support or connect families with additional services. Visit the Student Services webpage or contact the team at [email protected] to learn more.  

About the author:  Shasta Smith is a Communications Manager for Florida Virtual School, driven by a passion for storytelling and connecting students and families with opportunities that define the FLVS experience. Outside of work, she’s equal parts amateur gardener and camping enthusiast, happiest when she's out in nature.