Why Should I Try Mindfulness Practices?
If you have been practicing the mindfulness techniques we discussed previously, you probably have already discovered some of its benefits. By simply taking a little bit of time out of your day, you will reap rewards such as:
- Emotional regulation: Working with children can be demanding and stressful at times. Mindfulness can help you regulate your emotions and manage stress effectively. By cultivating awareness of your own thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations in the present moment, you can respond to challenging situations with patience, compassion, and calmness.
- Attentive caregiving: Mindfulness enhances the ability to be fully present with children. When you practice mindfulness, you can engage in active listening, observe children’s cues and needs more attentively, and respond in a sensitive and empathetic manner. This can foster stronger connections with children and promote their overall well-being.
- Stress reduction: You often are faced with multiple responsibilities and time pressure. Mindfulness practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or relaxation techniques can help reduce stress levels, lower anxiety, and prevent burnout. By taking care of your own well-being, you can provide better care for the children you look after.
- Role modeling: Children are highly observant and learn by imitating the behaviors of adults around them. When you practice mindfulness, you serve as positive role models for children, teaching them valuable skills in self-awareness, self-regulation, and empathy. You can inspire children to develop these qualities as well!
- Conflict resolution: Mindfulness helps develop skills in conflict resolution and problem-solving. When faced with challenging situations or conflicts among children, practicing mindfulness will assist you in responding with patience and a non-judgmental attitude. This allows you to approach conflicts from a place of understanding and find constructive solutions that promote harmony and cooperation.
- Enhanced well-being: Taking care of young children can be physically and mentally demanding. Engaging in activities like exercise, proper nutrition, restful sleep, and self-reflection can help maintain a healthy work-life balance and prevent fatigue.
By incorporating mindfulness into your lives, you can create a nurturing environment that benefits both yourselves and the children in your care. For additional resources, here are some wonderful apps that promote a mindful practice:
- Moonly
- Headspace
- Motivation
- I Am
- Calm
Here are some additional mindfulness apps for kids:
- Meditation for kids-Calmness
- Smiling mind
- Sleep meditation for kids
- Breathe, Think, Do with Sesame
- New Horizon
- Wuf Shanti Yoga Fun Machine
Again, our goal is to support you, so if there is anything we can do to assist you, please don’t hesitate to reach out.