This short documentary explores a San Francisco middle school in a crime-ridden area, and discusses the results of their new program. Kids were easier to manage in class, more focused

and some reported being better able to cope with stresses both in and outside of school grounds.

Meditation has been proven to:

- Increase creativity

- Reduce anxiety 

- Increase emotional stability

-

Reduces reactivity and anger

Sometimes words can only go so far, but using the symbol of a bell can help engage students or children to calm down, and hone in on the vibrations that

they pick-up on even after the silence has begun.

Asking a child to sit and do nothing alone sounds like a punishment. If it's something everyone is encouraged to do, or if you also partake, then their stigma about

sitting still and being quiet can diminish.

It may feel silly at first, but choose a few syllables, like "Uuhhhmmmm..." or even a chant, like "I am good," to the mix if you find your little ones

are more sleepy than engaged. 

If you're near a body of water, hiking trail, or the like, use that as an opportunity to introduce meditation as a part of a fun outdoor picnic or adventure.

If you have a child, give it a try, meditate together.