5 Ways in which Mindfulness Programmes Benefit Children
Technology and its constant evolution have benefitted the human race in every way imaginable. From helping us perform our daily tasks much more quickly to keeping us smiling throughout the day, the benefits they present are endless. However, like every other thing in this world, regardless of whether it is as lifeless as an object placed on your bed side or as lively as a chirping bird, it doesn’t come without its negatives.
According to the Dailymail, more than half of all children residing in the UK have their own smartphone; an alarming statistic which is impacting their lives in a lot of negative ways. For starters, it is hindering their ability to concentrate on meaningful tasks (i.e. studying, socialising etc.), indulging in productive activities (i.e. playing games outdoors etc.), and most importantly, it is drastically impacting their mindfulness; the ability to remain fully aware of their surroundings.
Thus, it is a need of time to incorporate a mindfulness programme into the course outline of school-going children, typically those who are of 7-13 years of age, to help mitigate the harmful effects of such practices.
Here are 5 ways in which mindfulness programmes can benefit the technologically-reliant young children of today’s generation…
Learn the Importance of being Mindful
This is one of the most obvious benefits of enrolling your child in a mindfulness programme. It develops a sense of responsibility among them from a very young age, as to why one must be careful of his/her surroundings, both the immediate vicinity as well as on the larger, macroeconomic scale.
When children learn the importance of this, they possess the ability to evaluate their surroundings better, improving their ability to multi-task and recognising the opportunities and threats they are exposed to in their daily lives.
Improves their Ability to Concentrate
Practicing mindfulness is termed as a form of meditation by a lot of reputable professionals belonging to the medical industry. As such, it improves the ability of children to concentrate on the task at hand, helping them perform it efficiently and effectively. It also significantly reduces their tendency to be distracted by their environment.
Sparks their Creativity
Staring at their smartphone, tablet, or computer screens, indulging in repetitive activities which do not require one to be creative, at least not to a considerable extent, severely limits their ability to be creative. Such programs make them focus their minds to express a unique point of view, one which can contribute to society in a much better way.
Learn to Value Others Around Them
Mindfulness Programmes make children realise that there is also a world which exists outside the realms of the digital universe. It helps them develop an emotional and physical relationship outside the virtual world, one which will prove to be far more beneficial for them as they grow older.
Reduce Their Dependency on Material Things
Such programs limit the dependence of children on technology, an outlet which they use as a coping mechanism, or as a habit they undertake as a result of pressure from their peers. It exposes them to new things, such as a hobby, sport or other interest which they can practice and hone in the years to come.
