Mindfulness and Self-Regulation in a Summer Camp Setting: An EBP Project
Andra S Opalinski1, Laurie A Martinez1
1Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, FL, United States of America.
Journal of Pediatric Nursing
|December 21, 2020
Summary
Implementing mindfulness programs in summer camps effectively reduced emotional distress and improved self-regulation in children. This approach nurtures the whole child and enhances overall camp programming for better pediatric mental health outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Preventative Mental Health
- Mindfulness-Based Interventions
Background:
- Pediatric mental health guidelines emphasize preventative services.
- Mindfulness has shown efficacy in addressing self-regulation and behavior concerns.
- A summer camp program identified needs for improved child self-regulation and behavior management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To implement an evidence-based mindfulness program for children in a summer day-camp setting.
- To evaluate the impact of the mindfulness program on children's self-regulation skills and behavior.
Main Methods:
- An eight-week program using Mindful Schools© curricula was implemented.
- The study addressed implementation strategies and impact on self-regulation.
- Descriptive statistics and qualitative methods were used for program evaluation.
Main Results:
- A decrease in emotional distress was observed among participants.
- Specific mindful strategies that resonated with school-aged children were identified.
- Dyad instruction, involving children and counselors, proved valuable.
Conclusions:
- Evidence-based programs can be sustained in community settings beyond schools.
- Mindfulness programs can broaden the reach of pediatric mental health promotion.
- This approach supports nurturing the whole child and improving camp programs.
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