As part of our close work with Future in Minds we continue to promote the key messages around the positive impact being ‘Mindful’ can have on both children and adults.

Every morning and every afternoon each class has a ‘Mindful Moment’ this is used at transitional periods in the day to ‘ground’ children and to allow them to opportunity and time to regulate in order to start their learning. This can be done through calming music, a therapeutic task, yoga etc.

As a school we have worked hard to create a calming environment through the use of music which is played on the corridors and outdoors alongside the use of lamps and lighting to promote the feeling of a safe learning environment.

During the day we have a large interactive board that plays music and a mindful video that can be seen by children and adults as they walk through the dining hall throughout the day and during dinner time.

Each class has a ‘Mindfulness Toolkit’ that is readily available. The toolkit includes resources such as a ‘Worry Monster’, mindfulness cards and activities, motivating stress balls, empowering question cards and also a bank of activities for children to complete. We have worked closely with Future in Minds to ensure the resources and strategies are ones which services such as CAMHS (Child & Adolescent Mental Health Service) recommend for young children.

Our PSHE scheme, JIGSAW fits perfectly with our beliefs as a school and encourages reflection opportunities through the use of ‘Paws’ the cat. There is also a JIGSAW ‘chime’ that is used to start lessons that require children to focus on regulation of their emotions and be ready to start the lesson. Children start this is Nursery and even at the young age of three are able to sit calmly, eyes closed to regulate their breathing ready to start their learning,

Here are some quick and easy Mindfulness Activities you can use at home with your child.