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Mindful Moments

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Lesson Plan

Mindful Moments

Introduce mindfulness techniques

This lesson introduces students to mindfulness techniques to help them manage stress and improve focus. Students will learn breathing exercises and simple meditation practices. This lesson is important as it equips students with tools to enhance their emotional regulation and concentration, which are essential skills for both academic success and personal well-being.

Audience

1st to 5th Grade Students

Time

30 mins

Approach

Introduce mindfulness techniques

Materials

Discussion Guide, Mindfulness Worksheet, Mindfulness Handout, and Calm music (optional)

Step 1

Introduction to Mindfulness

5 mins

  • Begin by asking students if they have ever heard of mindfulness.
  • Explain that mindfulness is a way to pay attention to the present moment, helping us feel calm and focused.
  • Share that today they will learn some simple techniques to practice mindfulness.

Step 2

Breathing Exercise

10 mins

  • Guide students through a simple breathing exercise:
    • Inhale deeply through the nose for a count of four.
    • Hold the breath for a count of four.
    • Exhale slowly through the mouth for a count of four.
    • Repeat this cycle three times.
  • Encourage students to notice how their body feels during the exercise.

Step 3

Simple Meditation Practice

10 mins

  • Lead students in a short meditation:
    • Ask them to sit comfortably and close their eyes if they feel comfortable.
    • Play calm music softly in the background (optional).
    • Guide them to focus on their breath, noticing the rise and fall of their chest.
    • Encourage them to gently bring their focus back to their breath if their mind wanders.
  • After a few minutes, ask them to slowly open their eyes and stretch.

Step 4

Discussion and Reflection

5 mins

  • Use the Discussion Guide to facilitate a conversation about how the exercises made them feel.
  • Ask students to share any thoughts or feelings they experienced during the exercises.
  • Encourage them to think about when they might use these techniques in their daily lives.

Step 5

Closure

5 mins

  • Distribute the Mindfulness Handout for students to take home.
  • Encourage them to practice the exercises with family or friends.
  • Remind them that mindfulness is a skill that gets easier with practice.
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Discussion

Mindfulness Discussion Guide

A guide to facilitate a discussion on mindfulness experiences.

How did you feel during the breathing exercise?

Encourage students to describe physical sensations or emotions they noticed.







What was it like to focus on your breath during meditation?

Guide students to share any challenges or ease they felt in focusing.







When do you think you could use these mindfulness techniques?

Help students brainstorm situations where mindfulness could be helpful, like before a test or when feeling upset.







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Worksheet

Mindfulness Worksheet

A worksheet to help students practice mindfulness techniques.

Draw a picture of yourself doing a breathing exercise.

Think about how you look when you are calm and focused.







Write about a time when you felt calm and focused. What helped you feel that way?

Consider moments at home, school, or with friends.







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Reading

Mindfulness Handout

A handout with instructions for mindfulness exercises to practice at home.

Mindfulness Exercises at Home

Breathing Exercise:

  • Inhale through your nose for 4 counts.
  • Hold your breath for 4 counts.
  • Exhale through your mouth for 4 counts.
  • Repeat 3 times.

Simple Meditation:

  • Sit comfortably and close your eyes.
  • Focus on your breath.
  • If your mind wanders, gently bring your focus back to your breath.
  • Practice for a few minutes each day.
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