Celebrating World Mental Health Day
In honour of World Mental Health Day, a beautifully illustrated mindfulness book series for children is set to launch. Titled Mindful Bee and Friends, this collection features captivating stories with vibrant animal characters, providing a delightful way for parents, grandparents, and caregivers to introduce mindfulness practices into everyday life.
Addressing Mental Health in Young Children
Recent statistics from the National Centre for Social Research reveal that 10% of children and young people aged 5 to 16 have a clinically diagnosable mental health issue, yet 70% of those experiencing these challenges have not received timely interventions. Aimed at children aged 3 to 6, Mindful Bee seeks to foster early mindfulness to lay a strong foundation for mental wellbeing as children grow.
Timely Launch for a New Generation
The introduction of Mindful Bee comes at a crucial time as many “Covid babies” are starting school. Born during an era of significant global upheaval, these children have encountered social isolation, disrupted routines, and increased anxiety. Mindfulness can serve as an effective tool, helping them cultivate resilience, manage stress, and develop emotional awareness. By integrating mindfulness practices from an early age, parents and caregivers can foster an environment that supports self-regulation and enhances emotional well-being.
Interactive Stories for Bonding
Each book in the Mindful Bee series is crafted to be a bonding experience between adults and children, filled with interactive activities that encourage calmness, creativity, and conversation. The series includes simple mindfulness exercises, techniques, and storytelling prompts, equipping families with tools to create a peaceful and mindful atmosphere at home and outdoors.
Proven Benefits of Mindfulness for Young Minds
Research indicates that early mindfulness practices can lead to emotional regulation, improved focus and concentration, decreased stress and anxiety, enhanced resilience, better sleep, and overall wellbeing. Furthermore, introducing mindfulness to young children through engaging stories can serve as an excellent starting point for exploring these concepts.
Subscription Model for Accessibility
The Mindful Bee book series will be available through a subscription model, delivering beautifully packaged new books to subscribers each month. The inaugural book will be released in December, making it an ideal Christmas gift. Each edition revolves around a specific theme, including mindfulness, compassion, gratitude, and diversity, allowing families to explore various aspects of mindfulness at their own pace.
Flexible Options for Families
Families can choose from yearly, quarterly, or monthly delivery options, ensuring accessibility. Each story introduces lovable animal characters that engage children with mindfulness activities and promote bonding, helping them navigate their emotions in a fun, interactive manner. A “Buy One, Gift One” option will also be available, allowing families to share the series with others, fostering community and mental wellbeing among children.
Meet the Creators
Founded by Belinda Prescott-Collins and Stephanie Unthank-Latter, the Mindful Bee series aims to nurture emotional wellbeing in children. Inspired by her own family experiences, Belinda, alongside BAMBA-registered mindfulness expert Stephanie, co-authored the first 12 books to introduce mindfulness creatively. Both are dedicated to supporting children’s mental health through mindfulness practices, collaborating with schools, libraries, and community groups.
A Call for Mindfulness in Daily Life
Belinda Prescott-Collins expresses, “In a world filled with distractions, Mindful Bee offers families a chance to pause and be present together. It’s about creating meaningful, screen-free moments that strengthen the bond between children and their caregivers.” Stephanie Unthank-Latter adds, “With the uncertainties children face today, mindfulness helps them manage their emotions, empowering them to build resilience and emotional awareness for life.”
Creating Meaningful Moments
In a digital age where distractions abound, Mindful Bee is a refreshing opportunity for parents and grandparents to engage their children in meaningful, screen-free activities. By emphasising mindfulness and family interaction, Mindful Bee is poised to become an integral part of bedtime routines, weekend mornings, and any moment when families seek calm and connection.
