Meditating Child
Did you know that 7 year-olds enjoy the opportunity to share their knowledge with others? Developmentally, this is a fact. Do you have a 7 year old that performs new skills? Although a child’s developmental steps are unique, you may have a child that has been influenced by positive factors in his or her environment and many times, this 7 year old will share their wisdom.
Several weeks ago, with his parents, a 7 year old who we will call Jon, went to Florida to visit his grandparents. The weather was warm and suitable for swimming. As the family soaked up the rays, Jon, decided his grandparents should meditate. He spontaneously shared an experience he encountered at a camp he attended last summer. He convinced his grandparents they should participate in this new activity. Jon began by telling his grandparents to sit with their legs crossed, eyes closed and breathe. The grandparents had heard of meditation, but had never practiced it. They closed their eyes, sat appropriately, although it was hard to cross their legs, and breathed. In a quiet voice, Jon directed them to slowly inhale and gradually exhale. The session continued with silence and leisure breathing.
Grandparents learn to meditate
During the meditation, the grandparents peeked and saw Jon sitting with eyes closed and his hands relaxed on his knees. After several minutes, Jon told them to slowly open their eyes. The session ended. The grandparents hugged Jon and told him they learned how to be calm and not to worry.
On one hand, hearing about a 7 year old meditating, especially one I know, did not acknowledge his developmental stage of playing sports, computer games and interacting with peers. My first reaction was this was so cute and funny. On the other hand, meditation (mindfulness) has become a cutting-edge research based educational technique. Mindfulness is now being introduced in many schools.
Mindfulness teaches children of all ages (grades K-12) to concentrate, build self-confidence, reduce stress, instill creativity and develop health and well-being.
So, what ever age you may be, learn how to meditate. It will be a rewarding experience.
Resources:
Mindful Children Organization
Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, HealthCare and Society
Recommended reading:
Biegel, The Stress Reduction Workbook for Teens
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