NEW! You and your child can experience mindfulness through enrichment! Mindfulness is “the awareness that arises from paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment and non-judgmentally ”to our inner and outer experiences, our feelings, sensations, emotions, thoughts and actions according to John Kabat-Zinn, psychologist and founder of the Center for Mindfulness at the Massachusetts General Hospital. Emerging research on children offers compelling evidence to support mindfulness. The application of mindfulness by students can improve academic achievement, emotional regulation, empathy and understanding of others, social skills, and test anxiety. The current world-wide pandemic with drastic changes such as online schooling, social isolation because of physical distancing, and additional health and financial stressors poses unique challenges for adults and children. Mindfulness practice can be a valuable tool for adults and children to help mitigate those stressors. Dr. Lalita Subrahmanyan, Professor Emerita of Elementary Education at St. Cloud State University has acquired training and experience in the teaching of mindfulness to children and youth in a gentle, playful and joyful manner. In this presentation, she will introduce the concept of mindfulness practices for children and youth with a special focus on educators, families, and other caregivers along with the research on its benefits. More information will be emailed to participants prior to class.
