Through mindfulness, children learn to cultivate gratitude, and to handle disturbing thoughts and difficult emotions. They also learn to develop kindness towards themselves and others. They learn to pay attention to the present moment with openness and curiosity.
A 2014 University of Edinburgh study investigated the experience of children taking part in a structured mindfulness programme. Here are the results.
From a psychological point of view, mindfulness helps children and adolescents:
• Recognise and regulate their emotions, both pleasant and unpleasant
• Focus on the present, pay attention, improve memory and concentration.
From a behavioural and relational point of view, it helps them:
• Learned to be less impulsive and less aggressive
• Communicate and listen in a more active and empathetic way
• Improve their relationships with peers and with their family.