The Nature of Mindfulness - Super Senses

EYLF Learning Outcomes:

Learning Outcome 1:

• Children have a strong sense of identity
• 1.1 Children feel safe, secure, and supported
• 1.2 Children develop their emerging autonomy, interdependence, resilience and sense of agency
• 1.3 Children develop knowledgeable and confident self identities
• 1.4 Children learn to interact in relation to others with care, empathy and respect

Learning Outcome 3:

• Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
• 3.2 Children take increasing responsibility for their own health and physical wellbeing

• A space large enough for children (and adults) to sit or lie down (this activity works well inside, but outside is better!)
• A collection of flowers, leaves, stones, seed pods or other tactile natural materials (enough for one each)
• A small piece of fruit or something else edible for each child (berries, grapes, sultanas, herbs, cereal, etc). Be aware of food intolerance or allergies.

Supporting resources: 

• Cool Australia audio recording – The Nature of Mindfulness – Super Senses – Early Learning
• Cool Australia factsheet – The Benefits of Mindfulness
• Cool Australia factsheet – The Importance of Mindfulness for Young Children

 Other resources:

• Smiling Mind
• Headspace
• Bright Tomorrows
• Mind Australia
• Mindfulness for Kids
• Mindfulness for kids – four easy mindfulness exercises for children

Following this lesson is an ideal way for students to participate in Planet Ark’s Schools Tree Day – the largest nature-care event in Australian schools. So, get growing! It only takes a minute to register for Schools Tree Day.