Mindful Moments: A Mindfulness program for children

By Heather Davis
Early Learning Manager

Greetings MCM families and friends,

Have you recently heard the word “mindfulness?”

Mindfulness is a practice that helps us reconnect with ourselves. Many might think of it as a method adults use to relieve stress when we’re feeling overwhelmed. Whether it’s a long day at school or a fun family weekend, children may sometimes feel busy or overwhelmed too, and can benefit from these practices as well.

Being kind, having compassion, and recognizing and regulating emotions is essential to social and emotional competency, which leads to happier, healthier kids. Before working as the Early Learning Manager at MCM, I worked as an early childhood classroom teacher for 10 years and I’ve seen how beneficial it can be to learn and practice mindfulness techniques both for children and caregivers.

Starting in February I will lead a class (free with admission) called Mindful Moments, for children ages 4 – 6 and their parent or caregiver. For four weeks, we will meet for a thirty minute program, focusing on a variety of topics, including: kindness, mindful breathing and emotional regulation, awareness with all our senses, and gratitude.

Children and parents alike will learn what it means to be present, and practice different techniques for breathing and coping with strong emotions, such as using “breathing buddies” or making a “calm down” jar.  Each week we will provide you with suggestions for activities you can do together during the week to practice what you’ve learned.

I look forward to embarking on this journey together!

Addtional Resources: Why Children Need Mindfulness Just as Much as Adults Do

The 4-week class runs Saturdays, May 9, 16, 23 and 30. Register online.

Please email Heather with any questions or for further information.