Activity: The Nature of Mindfulness – Mindful Bodies – Early Learning

Quick summary: The aim of this activity is to help children make sense of mindfulness by using nature as a stimulus. Children will tune into their breathing and body, their inner thoughts and feelings. They will also develop skills in focus, attention, resilience, emotional intelligence and regulation of the body and emotions. 

Activity developed in partnership with the

Following this lesson is an ideal way for students to participate in Planet Ark’s Schools Tree Day – the largest nature-care event in Australian schools. So, get growing! It only takes a minute to register for Schools Tree Day.

This activity is designed to help children develop mindful practices through sensory and play-based experiences.

EYLF Learning Outcome	Elaborations
Outcome 1: Children are connected with and contribute to their world	Children feel safe, secure and supported Children develop their emerging autonomy, interdependence, resilience and sense of agency Children develop knowledgeable and confident self-identities Children learn to interact in relation to others with care, empathy and respect
Outcome 3: Children have a strong sense of well being	Children become strong in their social, emotional and spiritual well being Children develop a range of skills and processes such as problem solving, enquiry, experimentation, hypothesising, researching and investigating Children take increasing responsibility for their own health and physical well being

 

Equipment needed:  Each child will need a soft toy/animal/something special to use as a breathing buddy.

Supporting resources: 

• Cool Australia audio recording – The Nature of Mindfulness – Breathing Buddies Forever – Early Learning
• Cool Australia audio recording – The Nature of Mindfulness – Smiling on the Inside – Early Learning
• Cool Australia factsheet – The Benefits of Mindfulness
• Cool Australia factsheet – The Importance of Mindfulness for Young Children

 Other resources:

• Smiling Mind
• Headspace
• Bright Tomorrows
• Mind Australia
• Mindfulness for Kids
• Mindfulness for kids – four easy mindfulness exercises for children

Topic: Nature of Mindfulness

The curriculum adviser: Anja Tanhane is a highly experienced educator who designs mindfulness training and programs. Find out more about Anja here and check out her website.

 

The team at Cool Australia continually reviews and refines our Early Learning resources in line with expert advice and current educational practices.