Center for Healthy Minds

While research regarding mindfulness practices for children is still at an early stage, initial results point to potential benefits in children’s ability for self-regulation. Developing an ability to focus attention is an essential skill that can aid in kids’ relationships, school, sports, music and other areas of life.

This well-being toolkit is intended for educators, parents and caregivers of children. We have included tips, audio and video practices, our Kindness Curriculum and more resources for you.

Our mindfulness-based Kindness Curriculum is a complete set of practices used in one of our studies in preschool classrooms, freely available to you.

Mindful Movement for Young Learners

Lisa Thomas Prince, an outreach specialist with the Center for Healthy Minds, shares a practice for young learners to promote well-being.

Awareness Practice for Kids

In this practice, lead by Center Founder and Director Richard Davidson, kids can learn a technique to cultivate their attention through being aware of their senses.

Finger Tracing Practice for Kids

Center well-being expert Chad McGehee shares a mindfulness-based practice to help kids calm the mind.

"Slow Mo Catch" Practice for Kids

McGehee leads children through a brief breathing practice that can be used to foster attention and calm.

Being Mindful During a 'Thought Parade'

McGehee shares strategies for young adults on how to relate to our flurry of thoughts with a more mindful attitude.

Overview of the Kindness Curriculum

Learn about the Kindness Curriculum—including the direct benefits of teaching mindfulness in a classroom setting. Produced by PBS Wisconsin Education

Attention to Breath and Body

Watch the ways students learn mindfulness by paying attention to their senses, breath and body movements while learning the Kindness Curriculum. Produced by PBS Wisconsin Education

Caring and Emotions

Explore how students recognize and work with their emotions, learning to care for themselves and others while learning the Kindness Curriculum. Produced by PBS Wisconsin Education.

Tips and Tricks

In this video, educators share tips and tricks to incorporating the Kindness Curriculum in their classrooms. Produced by PBS Wisconsin Education.

Guided Meditation

This is a short, guided mindfulness exercise developed as part of "Kindness in the Classroom." Produced by PBS Wisconsin Education.