Mindfulness in Schools: Benefits for Students

How Mindfulness in Schools Transforms Student Learning

What Is a Bellringer Activity?

A bellringer is a short classroom activity teachers use at the start of class while taking attendance. Traditionally, these are academic warm-ups, but some educators are replacing them with mindfulness exercises—with remarkable results.

The Impact of Mindfulness on Students

One teacher observed:
- Increased participation in class discussions
- Fewer disruptions and behavioral issues
- Improved writing quality
- Students requesting to continue the practice

These findings align with growing research on mindfulness for kids and teens, showing benefits like:
- Better emotional regulation
- Reduced test anxiety
- Enhanced focus and concentration

Real-World Success Stories

• Mindful Schools programs have helped students manage stress with simple breathing techniques
• Authors like Susan Kaiser Greenland (The Mindful Child) and Amy Saltzman, MD (A Still Quiet Place) document similar benefits
• The CALM program (Connecting Adolescents to Learning Mindfulness) includes retreats where teens:
  • Disconnect from phones
  • Develop greater self-awareness
  • Learn to appreciate silence and nature

Why Digital Natives Need Mindfulness

Coined by Dr. Gary Small, the term "Digital Native" describes youth raised in a hyper-connected world. Constant stimulation makes mindfulness practices essential for:
- Building focus skills
- Developing emotional resilience
- Creating space for self-reflection

How to Implement Mindfulness in Education

For Teachers:

1. Start with 1-2 minute breathing exercises
2. Use guided audio meditations for consistency
3. Create a dedicated quiet space in the classroom

For Parents:

• Model mindful behaviors at home
• Practice family meditation sessions
• Limit digital distractions during quality time

The Family Connection

Lasting change begins at home. Our family mindfulness retreat teaches:
- Shared mindful communication techniques
- The value of unplugged time together
- Practical stress-reduction tools for all ages

Start Today

Whether you're an educator or parent, introducing mindfulness practices creates:
- Immediate classroom benefits
- Lifelong coping skills for children
- Stronger family connections

Adapted from Mindfulness & Psychotherapy