The Power of Mindfulness in the Classroom

About this module:

In this module we will look at the fundamental reasons why children suffer from stress; their physiological reaction to stress and the impact that it can have on their cognitive and emotional development. This module will help you to understand where, when and why mindfulness-based practice began and outlines the how mindfulness practice in the classroom can be incorporated to benefit you and your pupils. During the sessions you’ll be introduced to simple, practical exercises that are effective in the classroom and have the opportunity to practise these through interactive demonstration. You will be invited to reflect and refine your own mindfulness practice and think about what works most effectively in your mindful setting/group of children. This module is appropriate for teachers and classroom practitioners in all phases and contexts.

Session One: Why mindfulness matters will explore:

• What mindfulness is and where it derives from.
• What stress is and why children suffer from stress.
• What physiological reaction occurs in response to stress and how can it impact on a child’s development?
• How regular mindfulness practices can reduce and relieve stress amongst children and how it can teach children to value calm.

Session Two: Mindfulness in the classroom will explore:

• How to establish mindful-based practise in your classroom, including:
• Power of breathing
• Mindful meditation
• Expressing gratitude
• Mindful eating
• Sensory experience
• Mindful movement

• Factors that can contribute to children becoming stressed.
• The negative impact that stress can have on children’s bodies, including their brain.
• How mindfulness can reduce the effects of stress.
• Simple, practical ways of developing mindfulness in your classroom.