Enhancing K-12 Classroom Mindfulness and Well-being
Introducing the Meditation Mentor App
The importance of mindfulness and well-being in the K-12 classroom has gained significant attention recently. Research supports the numerous benefits these practices can bring students and educators. This week, we will explore the advantages of mindfulness and meditation in the K-12 classroom.
The practice of mindfulness and meditation in the K-12 classroom has been shown to have several positive effects on students' well-being, academic performance, and overall emotional health. According to Meiklejohn et al. (2012), mindfulness-based practices in schools can reduce stress and anxiety, improve attention and focus, and enhance social and emotional skills. These benefits help students succeed academically and foster a healthier and more balanced emotional life.
Furthermore, mindfulness and meditation can positively impact educators as well. In a study conducted by Roeser et al. (2013), teachers who engaged in mindfulness practices reported lower levels of burnout, reduced emotional exhaustion, and increased job satisfaction. Students and teachers can experience improved mental and emotional well-being by incorporating mindfulness and meditation into daily routines.
The growing awareness of the benefits of mindfulness and meditation in the K-12 classroom has led to an expressed need from staff and students in the district for a simple and accessible tool to promote these practices. To address this need, we have developed the Meditation Mentor app, designed to provide brief mindfulness breaks throughout the day for those who need them. By offering a range of guided meditations and mindfulness exercises, the app aims to make it easy for educators and students to reap the rewards of these practices during the school day.
Practicing mindfulness and meditation in the K-12 classroom has been shown to have numerous benefits for students and educators, improving mental and emotional well-being and enhancing academic performance. The Meditation Mentor app addresses the need for a simple and accessible tool to promote these practices in the district, providing an invaluable resource for fostering mindfulness and well-being in our schools.
References:Â
Meiklejohn, J., Phillips, C., Freedman, M. L., Griffin, M. L., Biegel, G., Roach, A., ... & Saltzman, A. (2012). Integrating mindfulness training into K-12 education: Fostering the resilience of teachers and students. Mindfulness, 3(4), 291-307. Retrieved from HERE
Roeser, R. W., Schonert-Reichl, K. A., Jha, A., Cullen, M., Wallace, L., Wilensky, R., ... & Harrison, J. (2013). Mindfulness training and reductions in teacher stress and burnout: Results from two randomized, waitlist-control field trials. Journal of Educational Psychology, 105(3), 787-804. Retrieved from HERE