Description
Mindful Mechanics is a print curriculum that introduces teens and adult leaders to some basic concepts in mindfulness that include mindful eating, affirmations (emotional support or encouragement), identification and management of emotions, being present in the current moment, and yoga. Participating teens and adults could lead the Mindful Me program with younger children. Mindful Me introduces youth in grades K-2 to some basic concepts in mindfulness practices that include: mindful eating, affirmations (emotional support or encouragement), identification and management of emotions, being present in the current moment, and yoga.
Recommendations
The strengths of this resource are:
- The very structured lessons with clear directions
- A wide appeal to different learners and environments. Both curricula are developmentally-appropriate for their respective age groups.
- Reflection as an essential component of the youth experiences
Users should note that:
- The resources don’t directly address trauma-informed approaches to mindfulness or supports for neurodiverse youth.
- The story selections include limited representation of multicultural or neurodiverse youth.
The resource could be adapted by:
- Adding story examples showing more diverse cultures and abilities
- Including considerations for teaching mindfulness to neurodivergent youth (e.g., fidgets, calming resources, increased movement, stimulation)
At a Glance
Format:
- Each lesson includes:
- A hands-on learning activity
- A story to demonstrate the concept
- Reflection questions
- Adaptations
Audience
- Content is geared toward:
- Mindful Mechanics – Teens and adults
- Mindful Me – Youth in grades K-2
Facilitation
- Mindful Mechanics should be taught by an adult instructor.
- Mindful Me activities may be led by trained teens or adults.
Last Updated
- 2015