Edinburgh Napier University

  This project takes a new approach to teaching Mindful-breathing techniques to children aged 4-9.
Diagnosis of anxiety, stress, depression and ADHD in children has seen a significant increase over the last decade. The increase in demand for ADHD drug Ritalin has risen 50% in the last 5 years and the charity helpline – Childline - recorded a 35 per cent increase in calls for help related to anxiety over the last year.
Also, NHS reports show that 70% of children who experience mental health problems have not had appropriate interventions at a young age.
The challenge is, how do we engage children with an adult concept? How do we make Mindfulness a fun and engaging activity that leads to positive habit formation at a young age?
Intended outcomes and impact: Give children the tools to deal with emotions early in life, so later in life, mindfulness and breath awareness are second nature. Make mindfulness fun and engaging.