Mindfulness for Kids and Teens Program (9/23/23)

We are pleased to re-introduce the Mindfulness for Kids and Teens program at the Wenham Center for Mindfulness and Insight Meditation. While parents are meditating in our main meditation hall, teens and children over the age of six are invited upstairs and outside to participate in a structured and informal introduction to mindfulness practices. Parents are also welcome to participate in the activities with their children if they’d like.

We have seen children of all ages benefit from mindfulness, the simple practice of bringing a gentle awareness to the present moment. Designed to be fun and interactive, our Mindfulness for Kids and Teens program aims to develop compassion towards self and others, along with attention, curiosity, and empathy. The program meets on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month, during the 9:30 to 11:00 morning meditation session.

Kids and teens participating in the program will be introduced to meditation, mindful movement, metta (loving-kindness affirmations), art making and music, and discussions of mindfulness in everyday life. Lessons will include discussions and activities about generosity, gratitude, compassion, and the benefits of cultivating positive mind states. These and other basic tenets that are common to Buddhism and other spiritual paths are offered in an atmosphere free of religious dogma.

Teenagers may engage in longer and more structured mindfulness-based meditation exercises, with an eye toward inspiring them eventually to join the adults in formal meditation practice. They may also be exposed in a more academic manner to principles of Buddhist psychology, including the Four Noble Truths and The Eightfold Path. Again, the emphasis in discussing these topics is not on religion, but rather on their practical benefits for personal well-being. There will also be opportunities for teenagers to mentor younger children as Assistant Mindfulness Teachers.

The Mindfulness for Kids and Teens program is led by Max Johnson. Max is the Program Manager at the Wenham Center. He enjoys practicing insight and tranquility meditation, studying ancient Buddhist texts in the Pāḷi language, and teaching meditation to children, adults, and businesses. Max was a classroom teacher for 14 years, working in various settings including public schools, therapeutic assessment programs, and juvenile detention centers. He is qualified by Brown University to teach Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).

There is no formal charge to attend. Donations are appreciated and support the program’s continued operation.