Meditation and mindfulness belong in schools, period. Just like we teach kids to tie their shoes, wipe their noses, and brush their teeth after every meal, we should be teaching them about starting their day mindfully and carrying that spirit with them throughout the day.

So I continue to be encouraged as I read about new programs that school districts, individual schools, communities, and colleges and universities are initiating to teach their students how to benefit from meditation and mindfulness. Here is just a sample of what I have seen recently:

A look inside the John Main Center for Meditation and Interreligious Dialogue

“For many Georgetown students, busy schedules and marked-up planners are the norm. With such a fast-paced college culture, multitasking has become a necessity. Such a strong emphasis on activity leaves little room for contemplation. The John Main Center for Meditation and Interreligious Dialogue, however, provides a space for reflection. Aiming to promote mindfulness and meditation on campus, the center is a source of support for many students regardless of their faith or background.”

Meditation retreats offered affordably for students

“Jill Klimpel, an academic advisor for the Ohio State Departments of Political Science and Geography, strives to help students beyond their academics. Klimpel has spent the last two years working to bring affordable meditation classes to all students on campus through the Art of Living Foundation.”

Schools experimenting with meditation as an alternative to detention

“What if every time a kid acted out, he got sent to take some deep breaths, instead of detention? Well a program in Baltimore has been trying that out for the past few years, with good results. The school’s suspension rate has dropped — to zero.”

Brighton Grammar boys engage in daily mindfulness and wellness training

“Boys as young as three are engaged in daily mindfulness and wellness training at Brighton Grammar. A few times each day the boys stop classes and take some time to meditate, do yoga or listen to music.”

Chill out: Sudbury college creates mindfulness room

“Cameron Sanders sits on a bright blue bean bag chair at school. The first-year graphic design student at Cambrian College is relaxed, scrolling through his phone and waiting for this three-hour spare to be over. He’s not at home, but in a room called the Zen Den.”