Meditation for kids: 4 methods to try

With rates of childhood depression and anxiety on the rise, Victoria general practitioner Kim Foster sees meditation as a way to teach kids healthy coping and relaxation skills. “Research shows that meditation can improve a child’s attention and psychological functioning,” Foster says.

Toronto teacher Kat Osen has incorporated meditation into classes from kindergarten to grade nine. “It gives students a ‘brain break,’” she explains. “They can relax and refocus their minds.” Osen has noticed that some kids who suffer from anxiety become more relaxed after meditations, and that students are often able to better organize their thoughts and work with less support.