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Mindfulness is a form of meditation fast becoming the ‘norm’ in many places of education and in many homes. It can improve children’s ability to stay present in any given moment and this helps children to stop worrying or feeling anxiety. It can also improve learning outcomes.
Nurturing children is a vital part of their growth; this independent school in Buckinghamshire believes that this should begin in the very early years. Research has shown that practising mindfulness can reduce stress levels significantly and also help people to cope more with pain and illness. If children are taught the techniques in early childhood, there is far more chance that they will carry on into later life.
One of the great things about mindfulness is that it can be practised at any time. Showering, doing up your shoes, walking to school or sitting on the train. Put simply, mindfulness advocates paying attention deliberately – being aware of the moment and what is happening. Another great aspect of mindfulness is that you can’t get it wrong. There’s no right or wrong – it’s a very personal thing. You’re not aiming to experience enlightenment but simply to be.
How to encourage your child to practice mindfulness
Most children like to copy their parents or carers. They will see you practising mindfulness and naturally want to join in. Ensure all electronic devices are turned off though – they’re too much of a distraction.
Beginning
You can create a space with a yoga mat or some floor cushions. Light a candle and sit quietly. Before you begin, tell your child what you are doing. Let them know that they can join in if they want to. But don’t pressure them. Most children will be curious but a little distracted. It’s perfectly normal for children in their primary school years to be quite wriggly during mindfulness sessions.
Encouraging
Let your child know that they did well – talk about what they experienced. Ask them questions but don’t pressure them to give you any answers. Experiencing a quiet, thoughtful time like this is valuable and many children will simply enjoy it and not have a lot to say about it afterwards. About three minutes is a good length of time for children under the age of 13.
The space
If possible, set aside a space which your child understand is for mindfulness. Make it appealing and help them to decorate it with artwork, plants or items from nature. Ensure there is somewhere soft to sit.
Carrying on
Talk to your child about how they have the power to practice mindfulness no matter where they are. Let them know that if they ever feel stressed or worried, they can sit somewhere quiet and practice. This can be a very empowering thing and children feel as though they’re more in control of their lives. Your child will pick up the basics very quickly and hopefully go on to use mindfulness for many years to come.
