Mindfulness and Emotional Regulation in Early Years: Building Resilience and Emotional Well-being

This is blog 3 of 4 in our series on the four well-being strands that guide Informed Early Years. Discover why these strands matter and how they support children's holistic development.

At Informed Early Years, we emphasise the importance of mindfulness and emotional regulation for young children’s development. In today’s fast-paced world, teaching children to manage their emotions and stay present is crucial. Mindfulness encourages children to focus on the 'now', helping them recognise triggers that cause anxiety or stress, and building their capacity for resilience. By practicing mindfulness, children can engage more fully in their surroundings and learn to navigate life’s challenges with calmness and clarity.

Emotional regulation is closely tied to mindfulness—it involves teaching children how to manage big feelings like frustration, sadness, or excitement. Through co-regulation with adults, children learn how to self-regulate over time, gaining emotional literacy and understanding how to identify and express their emotions in healthy ways. Research shows that children who develop strong emotional regulation skills are better able to focus, build relationships, and succeed academically.

Mindfulness isn’t just for children—it benefits everyone involved in a child’s life.

Mindfulness isn’t just for children—it benefits everyone involved in a child’s life. For parents and caregivers, mindfulness encourages focusing on the present moment, fostering deeper connections with their children while reducing the stress of future pressures like milestones. For professionals, mindfulness helps them regulate their own emotions, leading to better observation of children’s needs, improved relationships, and healthier developmental outcomes.

The science behind emotional regulation and mindfulness is clear: children who can manage their emotions and stay grounded are more likely to thrive emotionally, socially, and academically. At Informed Early Years, we advocate for these practices because they are essential for building resilience, promoting well-being, and fostering a compassionate, mindful approach to childhood development.

Through our workshops, coaching, and e-learning courses, we provide strategies and insights to help professionals and caregivers embed mindfulness and emotional regulation into their daily practice. These approaches contribute to the overall well-being of children, helping them develop the skills they need to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and care.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about Informed Early Years. We are excited about the journey ahead and hope you will join us in making a meaningful impact in the lives of young children.

Warmest regards,

Carly Blackburn

Founder, Informed Early Years

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