We all know what usually happens when a child misbehaves at school: they’re sent to detention. But for the past year, one school has taken a different approach to discipline—and it’s had some incredible results.
Students at Robert W. Coleman Elementary School in Baltimore, Maryland are no longer sent to detention when they misbehave. Instead, they’re sent to the ‘Mindful Moments Room,’ where they’re taught the basics of mindfulness meditation.
What Is Mindfulness Meditation?
This form of meditation focuses on bringing non-judgmental awareness to difficult thoughts and feelings. Numerous studies have shown that mindfulness can radically reduce stress and anxiety—two factors that undoubtedly contribute to some children’s misbehavior.
The results of this experiment speak for themselves: since the school implemented the policy a year ago, they haven’t had to suspend a single student. This approach seems to also reduce deadline-related stress among students, and even improve test scores.
The benefits of replacing detention with meditation don’t end at the classroom door, either. Parents have reported that their children are teaching them how to use these techniques to manage their own stress at home—meaning the benefits of this program might just help the whole community!
The future of our world lies with our children. Meditation might just be the key to making sure that future is a bright one.
Image Credit: Andres Gonzales
Video Credit: Upworthy
