We know simple, consistent mindfulness exercises can help kids become self-aware, improve their ability to focus, and help them release stress and anxiety, but they’re also an amazing way to teach kids important lessons in kindness, compassion, and empathy.
Showing kindness, learning to be compassionate, and being empathetic are skills—just like playing an instrument, or kicking a soccer ball—and need to be practiced, like any other skill. And they’re critical for our children to learn, to grow up to be considerate, responsible citizens of the world.
In my mind, learning these things aren’t extras or “enrichment” activities. They’re essential learning for kids.
Here’s one way to try this: “Kindness,” from my Mindful Moments for Kids album. Try it with your students, or on your own.
Sit up tall, take a long breath in, and let it all the way out.
Imagine someone you love is standing in front of you.
Think of something kind you could say to that person. Don’t say anything out loud, but say that kind thing silently, in your mind.
Now imagine a different person, someone who you know is having a hard time today. Maybe that person doesn’t feel well, or is sad or upset about something.
Think of something kind you could say to that person. Don’t say anything out loud, but say that kind thing silently, in your mind.
Take a long breath in, and let it all the way out.
It takes only a minute or so, and it gets kids to practice the critical skill of showing kindness. I think you'll probably agree with me that we can't have too much of that.
Please get in touch, and let me know how it goes!