“Children have never been very good at listening to what their parents tell them, but they never fail to imitate them.” -James Baldwin

Mindfulness is a highly researched and brain-based attention and self-regulation practice that has become a global phenomenon in the last thirty years. Its many benefits include enhanced cognitive functioning (including memory, concentration and performance), improved emotion regulation and resilience, increased self-awareness (including of one’s own stress level) and promotes relaxation for the body as well as rest for the mind (including sleep).

Parents set the example of “how to be” for children, so becoming more present, calm, loving, and less judging (mindful), combined with using positive conscious discipline techniques, can benefit the parent-child relationship at any stage of development. In this course, we will concentrate on establishing a personal mindfulness practice and learning strategies and activities that will enhance “parenting power”. Through lecture, discussion, video, role-play, and reflection, we will embark on the life-long journey of becoming more conscious of what we say and do as parents (or co-workers, bosses, spouses, etc.). This is a fun class that can literally change your life!