The benefits of mindfulness meditation for children

Our weeks and days are often packed, and our little ones are no exception to this hectic pace. Between extracurricular activities, school, family outings, homework, in short, they're constantly being asked to do something… What if we took a 5-minute break from this frenetic life to help our little one reconnect with themselves, their emotions, release stress, and understand their surroundings? To help with this, we suggest discovering mindfulness meditation and its many benefits for children (and adults too).

What is mindfulness meditation?

Meditation in all its forms

Meditation is a vast subject, and we are increasingly introduced to this practice through television, social media, and even literature. Often, this activity is associated with relaxation or as a stress-relief method, but it is much more than that. In fact, there are several types of meditation: transcendental, chakra, yoga, Metta, and others.

Mindfulness meditation?

Mindfulness meditation was developed by an American molecular biologist, Jon Kabat-Zinn. He created a program accessible to everyone: MBSR protocols (Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction).

Simply put, it's a secular practice that allows us to welcome and listen to our thoughts and emotions. It's also a way to understand them without judgment or trying to change them. This form of meditation allows us to focus on the present moment and not be overwhelmed by our thoughts.

Can a child meditate?

Meditation is often associated with adults. But did you know that babies naturally practice mindfulness until they are about three years old? At the beginning of their lives, babies live only in the present moment. They are focused on their discoveries and activities; they don't yet have the concept of anticipation or memory. It's only later that their minds begin to wander and drift. Instead of relearning mindfulness as adults, why not continue to cultivate it from a very young age?

The benefits of meditation for children

4 good reasons to meditate

Mindfulness meditation isn't a magic bullet for every problem children face, but it will help them navigate their future lives with greater peace of mind. Still not convinced? Let us give you four good reasons to start meditating with your children:

• To manage one's emotions more easily;
• Develop your concentration;
• Manage your stress more easily;
• Develop your empathy and friendships.

Does it really work?

Recent scientific studies and advances in neuroscience demonstrate that regular meditation practice has positive effects on children.
According to Grégory Michel, Professor of Clinical Psychology and Psychopathology at the University of Bordeaux, and following a study conducted with 300 children, the latter reported "« "Greater well-being on a physical, psychological, familial and academic level, a greater propensity for happiness and a significant decrease in anxiety.".

To conclude

Mindfulness meditation is not a miracle cure for all the problems children encounter, but it is a very good boost in their daily lives.

Our articles on the same topic

• Mindfulness meditation: 5 exercises for children
• Emotions in children
• Meditation for children: a method for growing up better?
• How to promote mindfulness in preschool? 

To go further

• Read "« Calm and attentive like a frog »by Elise Snel
• Discover Elise Snel's story in this video
• A study on the benefits of mindfulness meditation