What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness is about focusing on and experiencing the present moment (simply breathing or listening to sounds), allowing the mind to quiet so that you see things more clearly.
Our minds and bodies are interconnected so when children feel restless in their bodies, mindfulness can help them to reflect on why they are restless and show them ways to become more conscious of what’s going on around them.
How can mindfulness help?
I have used mindfulness activities in class for several years to improve focus and make children more aware of the impact of their behaviour/reactions to others. During the last few weeks, I have begun to incorporate these games into my one-to-one online lessons. One of my pupils has become completely overwhelmed with the amount of school work during lockdown and his mother was at her wits end seeing him curled up in a ball crying on the floor. I suggested doing some mindful activities with him and they have really worked to help calm him down and even find ways for the whole family to connect better together and support each other.
Some useful websites for mindfulness activities
- https://www.susankaisergreenland.com/
- https://positivepsychology.com/mindfulness-for-children-kids-activities/
- https://biglifejournal.com/blogs/blog/5-fun-mindfulness-activities-children-breathing-exercises
- https://www.waterford.org/resources/mindfulnes-activities-for-kids/
- https://smartparentadvice.com/great-games-for-kids/
We are all feeling the pressures of trying to keep our children on task and continue learning through school closures but if children are too distracted then nothing beneficial will be achieved. It is always worth taking the time to step away from the screen and play a game where children can regain focus and feel refreshed in order to begin again.
Many of the activities can be taken outdoors into the garden and allow the whole family to take some breaths together and reconnect.
I wish you all good health and peaceful minds during this strange and difficult time!
