Stress affects everyone, including young children, and how they learn to manage this stress can impact their long-term health and well-being. Recent scientific research highlights the benefits of mindfulness, but teaching it to young kids can be challenging. Bright Horizons, a leader in early childhood education, has addressed this by integrating daily mindfulness practices into their classrooms through the Inner Explorer program.
Inner Explorer is a mindfulness platform designed to enhance children’s mental health and well-being in educational settings. According to Claire Goss, Senior Manager of Parenting Education and Resources at Bright Horizons, “Our teachers use the Inner Explorer program to teach mindfulness and healthy coping behaviors. It’s become a routine part of our approach, and we’ve seen immediate benefits.”
Bright Horizons Leads in Mindfulness Education
Bright Horizons has taken a pioneering role in early childhood education by adopting the Inner Explorer program, created by Dr. Laura S. Bakosh. The program was first tested at selected centers and is now being implemented across all Bright Horizons locations in the United States. Goss emphasizes that all staff members receive training on the Inner Explorer platform, noting, “It’s easy to use and very intuitive.”
“With evidence-based methods and real-life success stories, Bright Horizons ensures that children receive the best start in life,” she adds.
Key Benefits of Mindfulness at Bright Horizons
Enhances Learning Capabilities
Bright Horizons aims for children to enter their classrooms feeling calm and focused. Goss explains, “Research shows that stress impairs learning and concentration. Mindfulness practices like deep breathing and sensory activities help reduce stress, making children more receptive to learning and new experiences.”
Develops Emotional Skills
Teaching children how to manage their emotions is a priority at Bright Horizons. The Inner Explorer program provides techniques to handle emotions effectively, laying the foundation for healthy emotional habits. Goss notes, “Even brief daily practices boost critical thinking, emotional regulation, and decision-making skills.”
Examples of mindfulness activities include “starfish breathing,” where children trace their fingers while breathing, and placing a stuffed animal on their belly to watch its rise and fall with their breath. Goss reports that parents have shared their children’s enthusiasm for these practices, with kids even teaching their families.
Promotes Physical and Mental Health
The Inner Explorer program connects children’s mental and physical health, helping them feel strong and balanced. “Kids learn through sensory experiences, so integrating mindfulness into their activities supports their overall well-being,” says Goss. Activities such as mindful walks and deep breathing exercises are designed to calm nerves and support physical health.
Fosters a Positive Classroom Environment
Mindfulness contributes to a tranquil and productive classroom atmosphere. Goss observes that “educators using Inner Explorer regularly find that the classroom environment becomes calm, with improved interactions between adults and children.” This shared practice strengthens the bond between teachers and students, making learning more enjoyable and effective.
Equips Children for Lifelong Success
Mindfulness is more than a passing trend; it’s a valuable skill that benefits children throughout their lives. Goss highlights that, “Mindfulness doesn’t eliminate stress but provides tools to manage it.” The skills learned through the Inner Explorer program prepare children for both academic and life challenges. Goss adds, “These are essential 21st-century skills that will serve children well in their future endeavors.”
Even if mindfulness practices are not part of a child’s home routine, Bright Horizons ensures they receive these benefits through their program. “We’ve got you covered, so you can be confident that your child is getting the best possible experience,” says Goss.