Lesson Plan: Introducing Mindfulness to 12-Year-Old Students with ADHD

Introduction: - Begin the lesson by explaining what mindfulness is and its benefits for managing ADHD symptoms. - Emphasize that mindfulness is a skill that can be learned and practiced to improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. - Share a personal anecdote or story to engage students and make the concept relatable.

Lesson Outline: 1. Warm-up Activity (5 minutes): - Engage students in a short guided breathing exercise to help them transition into the lesson and focus their attention. - Use a video resource like “Mindful Breathing for Kids” (https://youtu.be/ihwcw_ofuME) to guide the activity.

1. Understanding Mindfulness (10 minutes):
   • Ask students open-ended questions to gauge their prior knowledge and understanding of mindfulness.
   • Use questioning techniques to encourage critical thinking and active participation.
   • Differentiate instruction by providing simpler explanations or examples for students who may struggle with comprehension.
2. Benefits of Mindfulness (10 minutes):
   • Discuss the specific benefits of mindfulness for individuals with ADHD, such as improved attention, reduced impulsivity, and better emotional regulation.
   • Show a short video like “Mindfulness for Kids with ADHD” (https://youtu.be/8jPQjjsBbIc) to reinforce the concept and engage visual learners.
3. Mindful Body Scan Activity (15 minutes):
   • Guide students through a mindful body scan activity to help them become aware of their physical sensations and bring their attention to the present moment.
   • Use a worksheet resource like “Mindful Body Scan for Kids” (https://www.mindfulschools.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Mindful-Body-Scan-for-Kids.pdf) to facilitate the activity.
4. Mindful Listening Activity (15 minutes):
   • Engage students in a mindful listening activity to enhance their ability to focus and be present.
   • Play a short audio clip of nature sounds or calming music and instruct students to listen attentively, noticing different sounds without judgment.
   • Use a worksheet resource like “Mindful Listening Exercise” (https://www.mindfulschools.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Mindful-Listening-Exercise.pdf) to guide the activity.
5. Reflection and Closure (5 minutes):
   • Allow students to share their experiences and reflections on the mindfulness activities.
   • Discuss how they can incorporate mindfulness into their daily lives to manage ADHD symptoms.
   • Provide additional resources, such as apps or websites, for students to explore mindfulness further.

Differentiation: - Provide visual aids, such as diagrams or illustrations, to support understanding for visual learners. - Break down complex concepts into simpler terms or use real-life examples to cater to students who struggle with comprehension. - Offer additional support or guidance to students who may need it during the activities. - Allow for movement breaks or fidget tools to accommodate students’ need for physical activity.

Additional Resources: - Worksheet: “Mindful Breathing for Kids” - https://www.mindfulschools.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Mindful-Breathing-for-Kids.pdf - Video: “Mindful Breathing for Kids” - https://youtu.be/ihwcw_ofuME - Video: “Mindfulness for Kids with ADHD” - https://youtu.be/8jPQjjsBbIc - Worksheet: “Mindful Body Scan for Kids” - https://www.mindfulschools.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Mindful-Body-Scan-for-Kids.pdf - Worksheet: “Mindful Listening Exercise” - https://www.mindfulschools.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Mindful-Listening-Exercise.pdf