Mindfulness is...

the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we are doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what's going on around us.

In a child's eye mindfulness is...

noticing your feelings, emotions, and what's going on around you, but not letting it bother you so much.

Studies have shown that in children, mindfulness has been found to do the following:

• enhance focus in children with ADHD
• decrease the effects of aggression and bullying
• reduce attention problems
• calm down
• increase optimism and happiness
• improve mental health
• increase compassion and empathy for others
• helps children resolve conflict

Technology can be a great resource if you would like your child to learn and practice mindfulness. I have created a list of some free apps that you may want to download and try with your child.

Breath, Think with Sesame ages 4+

Adorabe monster de-stresses kids with Sesame Street style. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, iPad Touch, Android

Settle Your Glitter ages 4+ 

This is a simple, yet beautiful emotional-regulation for kids. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, iPad Touch, Android

Breathing Bubbles ages 5+

Release worries and embrace joys with anxiety fighting tools. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, iPad Touch, Android

Mandala Memory ages 5+

This is a card-flipping memory game with beautiful patterns. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, iPad Touch

Stop, Breathe, and Think Kids: Focus, Calm & Sleep ages 6+

Kids name emotions and go on great, mindful missions. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, iPad Touch

Dreamy Kid Meditation ages 8+

Calming meditations and guided visualization made for kids. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, iPad Touch, Android

Headspace ages 8+

Meditation made simple to help improve focus, exercise mindful awareness, relieve anxiety, and reduce stress. Compatible with IOS or Android

Stop, Breathe, & Think ages 10+

Appealing tool guides meditation and promotes compassion. Compatible with IOS and Android