AIMS OF SESSIONS

• Increase self-awareness
• Develop self-regulation
• Enhance self-esteem

WHAT DOES A SESSION LOOK LIKE?

As experienced teachers we understand that relationship is the key to success in our work.
Therefore, we begin by getting to know the child, young person or family and find out about
their strengths and interests. We are then gradually able to bring the elements of our
approach to them as they are ready to receive them. In practice this means that we start
anywhere in the OPEN MINDS Approach according to the energy and engagement levels of
the young person.

We often start by helping to stabilise the young person’s inner world through child centred
mindfulness practices which are followed by reflection and discussion. As teachers we are
skilled at working with children according to their age and development and progressing
their learning appropriately.

Once we have provided children with some basic tools of mindfulness and breathing, we
start to increase the tool set with visualisation, affirmations and positivity practices. We also
supplement this with specific wellbeing tools to the child’s toolbox. These are drawn from
many sources, based on our teaching experience, including school PSHE programmes, CBT
techniques and from the field of positive psychology (see Reading List)
Movement and music are included during the sessions according to need and enhances the
learning by engaging the body in the learning process.

Curiosity, kindness and non judgement are key values in our work.
Our experience as teachers including our gentle approach, use of questioning and guidance,
is critical to the success of our intervention.