In the last decade interest in providing Mindfulness training to schoolchildren has been growing.

A recent review of the literature on the impact of Mindfulness on children and young people concluded that Mindfulness training for young people is easy to carry out, fits into a wide range of contexts, is enjoyed by both students and teachers and does no harm. Well conducted mindfulness interventions can improve the mental, emotional, social and physical health and wellbeing of young people who take part. It has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, emotional reactivity and bad behaviour, improve sleep and self-esteem and bring about greater calmness, relaxation and the ability to manage behaviour and emotions, self -awareness and empathy.

Mindfulness can contribute directly to the development of cognitive and performance skills and executive function. It can help young people pay greater attention, be more focused, think in more innovative ways, use existing knowledge more effectively, improve working memory and enhance planning, problem solving and reasoning skills.

Schools that engage in Mindfulness are likely to have beneficial results in emotional wellbeing, mental health, ability to learn and even the physical health of their students. Such interventions are relatively cheap to introduce, have an impact fairly quickly, can fit into a wide range of contexts and above all are enjoyed by both pupils and staff.

The studies that had been reviewed also showed that adolescents who are mindful, either through their character or through learning, tend to experience greater well-being. Being more mindful tends to be associated with more positive emotions, greater popularity and having more friends and less negative emotion and anxiety. (www.mindfulnessinschools.org)

It is highly recommended that teachers and parents have knowledge of Mindfulness prior to the start of students' programs. This will enhance the effect of Mindfulness on students and creates possibility for teachers to continue Mindful practices in the classrooms, thereby prolonging and enhancing its benefits.

For parents there will be the possibility to attend an information session (1 hour) prior to the start of the program. This meeting will be held at school, preferably in the evening.