Teaching children mindfulness can help them focus on the present moment, deal with stressors, and understand their emotions.  According to the Child Mind Institute, mindfulness can have a positive impact on children’s mental health.  In order to encourage mindful habits with children, the Cooperative Extension Service offered a two-part series day camp called Mindfulness in Nature and a four-part mindfulness series to 87 4th graders at Campbell Ridge Elementary. 

In the Mindfulness in Nature day camp, the FCS and Horticulture Agent teamed up to offer the program to 14 children aged 7-10 years old. The program focused on mindful techniques while drawing on the elements of nature.   The 4-H Mindful Me, 4-H Yoga for Kids, and Stories, Songs, and Stretches curricula were utilized. Topics discussed were focusing on your five senses, having a growth mindset, identifying feelings, positive coping skills, and the benefits of nature on one’s mental health. The participants created worry boxes and outdoor windchimes. They also practiced mindfulness by creating sidewalk chalk pictures in our garden.

At Campbell Ridge Elementary, the 87 4th graders learned about developing a sense of self, stress management, and emotional regulation. This series was requested by the family resource coordinator and fourth grade teachers.  Activities used were journaling, coloring, yoga, breathing exercises, identifying feelings, and practicing living in the present moment.  The 4-H Mindful Me, 4-H Yoga for Kids, and Stories, Songs, and Stretches curricula were utilized.

    End of the series written evaluations from the 4th graders and day camp participants showed the following:

•    100% said they planned on being more present in their daily life by listening to others when they are speaking, waiting patiently, and using their five senses. 

•    100% said they had better coping skills such as deep breathing and using their worry boxes to help deal with their stresses. 

•    95% said they practiced being a bucket filler of kindness.

•    93% stated they could be more mindful and connect with nature better.

•    93% said they planned on using more of a growth mindset vs. a fixed mindset.

•    87% said they were able to identify their feelings better.  

•    86% said they felt they could handle their emotions in a more positive manner.

•    84% said they practiced mindful techniques such as deep breathing, journaling, or focusing on an object.

One participant stated, “I worry before I go to bed so I plan on writing my worries down and putting them in my worry box to help me fall asleep.”  Another stated, “I learned how to handle my emotions and be kinder to others.”