When children act out, it is most likely due to the fact that they are struggling to understand complex emotions, and they cannot find a better way to release their feelings.
For this reason, schools in England have started to introduce mindfulness and meditation in the classroom to improve the mental health of the youth. In 370 schools children will be taught to meditate, to relax muscles and to breathe correctly. They will also learn about awareness in their everyday lives. This is part of a British governmental program. Reports show that depression and anxiety are increasing among young children, and that 1 in 8 British children have some kind of mental disorder. However, only 1 out of 5 children are able to get treatment.
Similarly, in a Baltimore school, detention was replaced by practicing breathing and stretching exercises. A student who was sent to such ‘mindful moment room’ told CNN that ‘I did some deep breathing, had a little snack, and I got myself together. Then I apologized to my class.’
Teaching children how to deal with emotions will reap the benefits in the end. The goal is to have children who are able to clear their mind, and being more focused in class.