At each developmental stage mindfulness can be a useful tool for helping children and students to experience personal alertness. Being fully present, taking a breath, and not beholden to reactive thoughts and feelings requires careful attention to thoughts, feelings, and environment. These activities can be conducted daily building attention, calmness and perspective.

It is important to acknowledge the difference and connectedness of mindfulness and meditation. Mindfulness can be practised anytime, anywhere, and with anyone by showing up and being fully engaged in the here and now. Meditation is usually practised for a specific amount of time. Mindfulness supports and enriches meditation, while meditation nurtures and expands mindfulness.

Almost any activity you can think of can be done mindfully … or not. Playing a musical instrument, driving in a car, cooking or walking can all be mindful experiences if they are given focused, curious attention.

Choose the music - a slower tempo can quiet the mind and relax muscles creating a calm and soothing feeling. Likewise, sounds of nature, rain and thunder may also be relaxing, particularly when mixed with other music such as classical, light jazz or easy listening music. Ask children and students to close their eyes, lie down or sit comfortably and allow themselves to get lost in the music – blocking other thoughts. Explore the song - listen to the different instruments and sound of the voice – separate each sound and concentrate on it. Become immersed in the song only.