USEFUL RESOURCES for Classroom Mindfulness
The MindUP Program and Curriculum
The MindUP Curriculum: Brain-Focused Strategies for Learning – and Living was developed by the Hawn Foundation:www.thehawnfoundation.org It is a comprehensive, classroom-tested, evidence-based curriculum framed around 15 easily implemented lessons that foster social and emotional awareness, enhance psychological wellbeing and promote academic success. Published by Scholastic Press – www.scholastic.com.au, it comprises three age- appropriate books: Pre-school – Primary Grade 2; Primary Grades 3 – 5; Primary Grade 6 – High School Year 8
The MindUP program was developed not only to expand students’ social and emotional awareness but also to improve their academic performance. The concepts and vocabulary associated with MindUP will expand the scope of students’ thinking in all academic disciplines.
The MindUP core practices can become a staple routine for the opening and closing of each school day as well as at the moments of transition: settling down after recess, waiting for lunch, moving from one subject to the next. THe MindUP lessons themselves can be worked smoothly into a daily routine and require minimal teacher preparation. Suggested follow-up activities link each lesson to content-area learning.
The MindUP program is currently being implemented in hundreds of schools across the US, Canada, the UK and Latin America. The research results on these programs, and associated research is excellent
http://www.thehawnfoundation.org/research
Meditation Capsules: a Mindfulness Program for Children by Janet Etty Leal
The ten meditation sessions outlined in this book are aimed at children in upper primary schools. The range of Capsules represent various life-skills to be applied in the classroom, at home, on the sports field and in the playground. Each capsule in the program is intended to present children with new and varied learning experiences, which will engage their minds and also their emotions. Relevant, diverse concepts are designed to sequentially build a personal foundation of self-awareness.
www.meditationcapsules.com
To read an article about Janet’s work in schools in Victoria, Australia: http://ianellis-jones.blogspot.com/2011/03/australian-school-children-learn.html Or to listen to her interview on ABC Radio National’s Life Matters program: http://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/lifematters/meditation-for-kids/2999252