Centner Academy, the first happiness school in the U.S. based in Miami, is helping preschoolers between the ages of two and a half and six years old cope with their emotional and mental well-being by starting their day from home with a “Gratitude Circle,” a daily 30-minute morning routine led by the school’s resident Mindfulness Coach, Gabriela Jimenez. Via Zoom, kids express their well wishes and love for one another and for the rest of the world.
The Gratitude Circle class includes:
- A happy sing-a-long with words of encouragement and dance to get the kids moving.
- Sharing individual positive intentions (i.e. I am strong, I am love, etc.) to start their day in a positive, mental state.
- Book reading on the topic of self-love, self-esteem and mindfulness.
- A sound bowl healing session – meditation where students assume a peaceful pose.
These circles are designed to help kids release fears, anxiety and stress and build empathy, compassion, connection and emotional control during these difficult times.
Credit: Centner Academy