A mindfulness workshop this weekend will help children be calmer and more expressive about their experiences
A screenshot of a virtual mindfulness session
Mindfulness is a heavy word; a word rarely used in association with children. What can children possibly have to do with mindfulness? The presenters of Mindfulness for Young Minds, a virtual workshop specifically designed for kids, say putting the word into practice from a very young age can begin the process of personal development and prepare children for their future. Conceived and organised by MindOn, this workshop hopes to help kids focus on mental fitness through various exciting, interactive activities.
An on-site event on mindfulness in pre-pandemic times
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While trying to elucidate the importance of such sessions, Harjot Kaur, project manager at MindOn says, “We try to reach out to children between five and 13. Our group has been founded on the teachings of positive psychology and we believe that most mental health issues start showing up during this period. It is important to start addressing such issues at the earliest. Our programme comes in three parts — live sittings, an app and a journal.” Kaur is of the opinion that mindfulness — in its entirety — has not caught on with the general public and workshops raise awareness. Parents and teachers often think that young minds should either play and learn or concentrate on their immediate needs. A child could be bullied, traumatised or anxious and in most cases, they either withdraw into their shells or act cranky as they know no better. “Parents or guardians often brush off such occurrences or ask kids to move on. Mindfulness rather identifies the problem. It is essential that we create a platform where they trust us with their experiences,” Kaur shares. She further adds that although a heavy word, if its practice can be made simple and absorbing, it only aids consciousness. According to her, kids learn to be aware of their surroundings and actions through these sessions.
Every module in the workshop has been well thought out by psychologists. Through DIY posters, stickers, narrations and with access to the collaborating MindOn app, Kaur says, one can help children be calmer, happier and more alert.
On December 11, 4pm onwards
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