Mindfulness for children and the adults who care for them

Why Mindfulness?

It can be challenging for children and teens to filter and focus, find stillness, and centre themselves because they are so bombarded by external and internal stimuli. We often ask and expect our children, teenagers, and students to pay attention and resolve their inner conflicts independently. But how much time do we actually spend teaching them the skills and offering opportunities to practice and refine them?


Mindfulness is available to everyone who is ready for it. The Mindful Me programs offer tools and strategies to point the way.


The true answer is everyone! Having a mindfulness practice is helpful to all people during everyday life challenges. It has also been proven to be beneficial for children and adults dealing with any of the following:

• Anger issues and/or increased aggression

• Sleep problems

• Anxiety, depression and other mood disorders

• Feelings of disconnection

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD/ADD)

• Autism

• Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

• Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

• Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD)

• Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)

After mindfulness training people report a greater sense of awareness, the ability to sleep better, and feelings of confidence and self-worth. Among the children who have participated in our programs, the following changes have been observed:

• Increased focus and concentration

• Enhance physical, social and emotional self regulation skills (more impulse control)

• Decreased anxiety and stress

• Ability to identify and shift negative emotions

• Improved communication and cooperation skills

• Greater abilities with problem solving and teamwork

• More kindness, empathy, and compassion

The most precious gift we can offer others is our presence. When mindfulness embraces those we love, they will bloom like flowers.

- Thich Nhat Hanh -

The most precious gift we can offer others is our presence. When mindfulness embraces those we love, they will bloom like flowers.

- Thich Nhat Hanh -

Illustration of Bernie the borrowing owl

Our Mindfulness Programs

mindful buddies

(early years - grade 3)

This program includes movement and relaxation exercises as well as interaction with bunnies to develop 5 qualities of well-being: awareness, calm, kindness, empathy and connection.

the compassionate leader

(grades 4-8)

Through the study of a "fluffle" of bunnies, mindfulness activities, games and guided relaxations, participants hone the social-emotional regulation skills that contribute to being a mindful leader.

mindfulness with animals

(online & in-person)

A variety of online and in-person facilitated program opportunities for children, teens, and family members. In-person experiential learning sessions are delivered at Circle R Ranch in Delaware, Ontario.

Our Mindfulness Programs

Illustration of Bernie the borrowing owl

mindful buddies

(early years - grade 3)

This program includes movement and relaxation exercises as well as interaction with bunnies to develop 5 qualities of well-being: awareness, calm, kindness, empathy and connection.

the compassionate leader

(grades 4-8)

Through the study of a "fluffle" of bunnies, mindfulness activities, games and guided relaxations, participants hone the social-emotional regulation skills that contribute to being a mindful leader.

mindfulness with animals

(online & in-person)

A variety of online and in-person facilitated program opportunities for children, teens, and family members. In-person experiential learning sessions are delivered at Circle R Ranch in Delaware, Ontario.

Illustration of Bernie the borrowing owl

Our Mindfulness Programs

mindful buddies

(early years - grade 3)

This program includes movement and relaxation exercises as well as interaction with bunnies to develop 5 qualities of well-being: awareness, calm, kindness, empathy and connection.

the compassionate leader

(grades 4-8)

Through the study of a "fluffle" of bunnies, mindfulness activities, games and guided relaxations, participants hone the social-emotional regulation skills that contribute to being a mindful leader.

mindfulness with animals

(online & in-person)

A variety of online and in-person facilitated program opportunities for children, teens, and family members. In-person experiential learning sessions are delivered at Circle R Ranch in Delaware, Ontario.

Why People Believe

in What We Do

Why People Believe in What We Do

Why People Believe in What We Do

Jenny Morland-Fife
Grade 8 Teacher, Mitchell Hepburn
Jenny Morland-Fife
Grade 8 Teacher, Mitchell Hepburn

Sherry-Lynne has shaped my teaching practice since the moment I was placed in her room as a student teacher. Her approach to teaching was always focused on mindfulness, kindness and being present and intentional in her work. Throughout the years, we had multiple opportunities to program together through the creation of a mindful buddy program which stretched across grades and schools. Students were given opportunities to write letters, connect in person through yoga, games and mindful practice. Her work helped to support the mental health and wellbeing of thousands of students. 

       On a personal level, Sher has single handedly shaped my own personal practice through her vast knowledge and resources. I was able to attend several of her adult classes which supported my own mental health through meditation and deep, meaningful discussions. 

       Most importantly, Sherry-Lynne has supported me on my journey as a parent. My four year old and I have attended several mindfulness with animal workshops. My child has established incredible self-regulation skills through the tools, practices and activities that she participated in. She also loved spending time playing games and of course practicing a calm body so that she could snuggle adorable bunnies. 

       Sherry-Lynne’s impact on my life is beyond measure. She embodies her practice and changes lives through her ability to connect and empower individuals through her leadership. 

Nesreen Ghattas
Parent
Nesreen Ghattas
Parent

As a mom of 4 girls, Sherry-Lynne's courses have been instrumental in teaching me how to notice and regulate my emotions. This has taught me to be more present for my children and hold space for them to regulate their own emotions. My kids have completed several of her programs and have learned many tools to manage their emotions. We highly recommend her courses both for parents and the children.

David Fife
Principal, Aldborough P.S.
David Fife
Principal, Aldborough P.S.

Sherry-Lynne, an experienced educator at Aldborough Public School, recognized the importance of promoting mental well-being among students and staff. She created a mindfulness program that integrated evidence-based practices throughout the school day. Sherry-Lynne facilitated mindfulness assemblies, and mindful buddies to support her work with incorporating mindfulness into our school community. She also organized workshops for fellow teachers, sharing strategies to reduce stress and enhance emotional resilience. I only have the highest praise for her leadership and commitment to fostering a positive and mindful school environment.

Marcy Whitcroft
Educational Assistant, New Sarum Public School
Marcy Whitcroft
Educational Assistant, New Sarum Public School

Sherry-Lynne Kirchner has brought her mindfulness program to our school for several years. Our students have throughly enjoyed and learned such valuable skills. Our staff, students and their families all highly recommend the Mindful Me programs. On a personal note, Sherry Lynne is one of the most kind, positive and enthusiastic people I know. If you have an opportunity to join Sherry-Lynne in any of her wonderful opportunities, take it!

Jenny Morland-Fife
Grade 8 Teacher, Mitchell Hepburn
Jenny Morland-Fife
Grade 8 Teacher, Mitchell Hepburn

Sherry-Lynne has shaped my teaching practice since the moment I was placed in her room as a student teacher. Her approach to teaching was always focused on mindfulness, kindness and being present and intentional in her work. Throughout the years, we had multiple opportunities to program together through the creation of a mindful buddy program which stretched across grades and schools. Students were given opportunities to write letters, connect in person through yoga, games and mindful practice. Her work helped to support the mental health and wellbeing of thousands of students. 

       On a personal level, Sher has single handedly shaped my own personal practice through her vast knowledge and resources. I was able to attend several of her adult classes which supported my own mental health through meditation and deep, meaningful discussions. 

       Most importantly, Sherry-Lynne has supported me on my journey as a parent. My four year old and I have attended several mindfulness with animal workshops. My child has established incredible self-regulation skills through the tools, practices and activities that she participated in. She also loved spending time playing games and of course practicing a calm body so that she could snuggle adorable bunnies. 

       Sherry-Lynne’s impact on my life is beyond measure. She embodies her practice and changes lives through her ability to connect and empower individuals through her leadership. 

Nesreen Ghattas
Parent
Nesreen Ghattas
Parent

As a mom of 4 girls, Sherry-Lynne's courses have been instrumental in teaching me how to notice and regulate my emotions. This has taught me to be more present for my children and hold space for them to regulate their own emotions. My kids have completed several of her programs and have learned many tools to manage their emotions. We highly recommend her courses both for parents and the children.

David Fife
Principal, Aldborough P.S.
David Fife
Principal, Aldborough P.S.

Sherry-Lynne, an experienced educator at Aldborough Public School, recognized the importance of promoting mental well-being among students and staff. She created a mindfulness program that integrated evidence-based practices throughout the school day. Sherry-Lynne facilitated mindfulness assemblies, and mindful buddies to support her work with incorporating mindfulness into our school community. She also organized workshops for fellow teachers, sharing strategies to reduce stress and enhance emotional resilience. I only have the highest praise for her leadership and commitment to fostering a positive and mindful school environment.

Marcy Whitcroft
Educational Assistant, New Sarum Public School
Marcy Whitcroft
Educational Assistant, New Sarum Public School

Sherry-Lynne Kirchner has brought her mindfulness program to our school for several years. Our students have throughly enjoyed and learned such valuable skills. Our staff, students and their families all highly recommend the Mindful Me programs. On a personal note, Sherry Lynne is one of the most kind, positive and enthusiastic people I know. If you have an opportunity to join Sherry-Lynne in any of her wonderful opportunities, take it!

Jenny Morland-Fife
Grade 8 Teacher, Mitchell Hepburn
Jenny Morland-Fife
Grade 8 Teacher, Mitchell Hepburn

Sherry-Lynne has shaped my teaching practice since the moment I was placed in her room as a student teacher. Her approach to teaching was always focused on mindfulness, kindness and being present and intentional in her work. Throughout the years, we had multiple opportunities to program together through the creation of a mindful buddy program which stretched across grades and schools. Students were given opportunities to write letters, connect in person through yoga, games and mindful practice. Her work helped to support the mental health and wellbeing of thousands of students. 

       On a personal level, Sher has single handedly shaped my own personal practice through her vast knowledge and resources. I was able to attend several of her adult classes which supported my own mental health through meditation and deep, meaningful discussions. 

       Most importantly, Sherry-Lynne has supported me on my journey as a parent. My four year old and I have attended several mindfulness with animal workshops. My child has established incredible self-regulation skills through the tools, practices and activities that she participated in. She also loved spending time playing games and of course practicing a calm body so that she could snuggle adorable bunnies. 

       Sherry-Lynne’s impact on my life is beyond measure. She embodies her practice and changes lives through her ability to connect and empower individuals through her leadership. 

Nesreen Ghattas
Parent
Nesreen Ghattas
Parent

As a mom of 4 girls, Sherry-Lynne's courses have been instrumental in teaching me how to notice and regulate my emotions. This has taught me to be more present for my children and hold space for them to regulate their own emotions. My kids have completed several of her programs and have learned many tools to manage their emotions. We highly recommend her courses both for parents and the children.

David Fife
Principal, Aldborough P.S.
David Fife
Principal, Aldborough P.S.

Sherry-Lynne, an experienced educator at Aldborough Public School, recognized the importance of promoting mental well-being among students and staff. She created a mindfulness program that integrated evidence-based practices throughout the school day. Sherry-Lynne facilitated mindfulness assemblies, and mindful buddies to support her work with incorporating mindfulness into our school community. She also organized workshops for fellow teachers, sharing strategies to reduce stress and enhance emotional resilience. I only have the highest praise for her leadership and commitment to fostering a positive and mindful school environment.

Marcy Whitcroft
Educational Assistant, New Sarum Public School
Marcy Whitcroft
Educational Assistant, New Sarum Public School

Sherry-Lynne Kirchner has brought her mindfulness program to our school for several years. Our students have throughly enjoyed and learned such valuable skills. Our staff, students and their families all highly recommend the Mindful Me programs. On a personal note, Sherry Lynne is one of the most kind, positive and enthusiastic people I know. If you have an opportunity to join Sherry-Lynne in any of her wonderful opportunities, take it!

For Parents and Teachers

Illustration of Marvin the marmot making a hand heart gesture

The Mindful Classroom

(part of the curriculum series)

Learn how to organize your space and time to integrate mindfulness at various points throughout the day. This course will help you identify routines and mindful tools to create a conscious space that promotes awareness among your students.

meditation for adults & Parents/caregivers

Live online mindfulness meditation practice opportunities and training sessions. Training sessions include a dive into the neurobiology of mindfulness, "Heartfulness Practices", and recommended resources to support continued independent practice.

Animal Assisted learning

Learn how to help children gain social-emotional regulation skills through engagement with animals. In this 2-hour workshop parents will learn how to involve family pets when practicing mindfulness with their family.

For Parents and Teachers

Illustration of Marvin the marmot making a hand heart gesture

The Mindful Classroom

(part of the curriculum series)

Learn how to organize your space and time to integrate mindfulness at various points throughout the day. This course will help you identify routines and mindful tools to create a conscious space that promotes awareness among your students.

meditation for adults & Parents/caregivers

Live online mindfulness meditation practice opportunities and training sessions. Training sessions include a dive into the neurobiology of mindfulness, "Heartfulness Practices", and recommended resources to support continued independent practice.

Animal Assisted learning

Learn how to help children gain social-emotional regulation skills through engagement with animals. In this 2-hour workshop parents will learn how to involve family pets when practicing mindfulness with their family.

For Parents and Teachers

Illustration of Marvin the marmot making a hand heart gesture

The Mindful Classroom

(part of the curriculum series)

Learn how to organize your space and time to integrate mindfulness at various points throughout the day. This course will help you identify routines and mindful tools to create a conscious space that promotes awareness among your students.

meditation for adults & Parents/caregivers

Live online mindfulness meditation practice opportunities and training sessions. Training sessions include a dive into the neurobiology of mindfulness, "Heartfulness Practices", and recommended resources to support continued independent practice.

Animal Assisted learning

Learn how to help children gain social-emotional regulation skills through engagement with animals. In this 2-hour workshop parents will learn how to involve family pets when practicing mindfulness with their family.

Meet our Mindfulness Champion!

Marvin the Marmot and his friends (the Mindful Mates) show us how mindfulness can help us develop and deepen our present moment awareness.


Each time Marvin and his friends encounter typical life challenges they cultivate greater acceptance, compassion, and resilience by using their formal and informal mindfulness skills.

Learn more about Marvin and his Mates

Meet our Mindfulness Champion!

Marvin the Marmot and his friends (the Mindful Mates) show us how mindfulness can help us develop and deepen our present moment awareness.


Each time Marvin and his friends encounter typical life challenges they cultivate greater acceptance, compassion, and resilience by using their formal and informal mindfulness skills.

Learn more about Marvin and his Mates

Meet our Mindfulness Champion!

Marvin the Marmot and his friends (the Mindful Mates) show us how mindfulness can help us develop and deepen our present moment awareness.


Each time Marvin and his friends encounter typical life challenges they cultivate greater acceptance, compassion, and resilience by using their formal and informal mindfulness skills.

Learn more about Marvin and his Mates

The Best Therapist has Fur and Four Legs

By Sherry-Lynne Kirschner • December 1, 2024
Our pets are portals to connect a place in our hearts where we can learn to quiet the mind and body, and find greater peace and emotional well-being. I watched a group of 4-6 year olds, who we call our “mindful pals” blissfully interact with one of our retired herd members the other day and I felt so privileged to witness the magical connection in progress. She’s known as the grandmother of the herd, not only for her age, but also for the wisdom she has passed on to the masses. I observed their little hands go on a sensory walk searching for the warmest spots, then the coolest spots, and ultimately the sweetest spots, at which point the pony clearly communicated her delight. She gently closed her eyes and lowered her head in response to their soft massages. 

How Animals Teach us Qualities of Awareness

By Sherry-Lynne Kirschner • November 1, 2024
From the moment I witnessed a child soften when they stroked a baby flying squirrel rehabilitating at our outdoor education centre, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. In the weeks that followed I watched some summer campers let go of their worries through laughing hysterically at the crazy acrobatics of our baby goats. Then a homesick child reported to me that I didn’t need to call home because after spending time with Yeller, our dog, “she just felt different inside.” As years passed, I marveled at kids gazing peacefully at water bugs during “Pond and Puddle Ponderings” workshops and others wildly racing to finish schoolwork to gain the ever-popular reward of being part of the “Rat Pack” in my classroom. Who would ever have thought the greatest motivator for a child to learn would be the chance to interact at recess with one of the most despised animals on the planet? If you want to read about how my grade 6 students transformed our classroom into a chapel and banquet hall to host the infamous “Marshmallow and Turkey Rat wedding” stayed tuned!  Over the thousands of interactions of animals and children that I have watched, I have noticed that each animal brings with them a unique quality of awareness. And if we take the time to share this with the kids in our care, valuable learning can occur.