Welcome to Clapton Park. Come and find out what we do in our centre!
Mindfulness is a fundamental component of our nursery curriculum, designed to support children in developing the self-regulation and emotional resilience necessary for their future learning. It is a structured approach that encourages children to become aware of their thoughts, feelings and bodily sensations in a calm and non-judgemental way. By participating in these sessions, children build a toolkit of strategies that help them manage their emotions and focus their attention, providing a solid foundation for their psychological well-being.
The programme focuses on helping children understand the connection between their breath, their bodies and their emotional state. Through a series of age-appropriate exercises such as guided breathing, sensory exploration and quiet reflection, children learn to navigate 'big feelings' and transition between activities with greater ease. These sessions take place every Wednesday and are designed to improve concentration, reduce anxiety and foster a sense of empathy towards themselves and their peers.
During these sessions, the Key Person observes each child’s engagement, noting their ability to follow calming techniques, express their internal state and show awareness of the present moment. These observations are carefully documented to ensure that the child's personal, social and emotional development is accurately reflected in their learning journey. This process allows us to identify a child's strengths in self-regulation and determine any specific areas where they may require further support as they move toward more formal educational settings.