Mindfulness. It's a pretty straightforward word. It is the basic human skill to be fully present, conscious of where we are and what we're doing, and not overwhelmed by what's going on around us. It might seem trivial, except for the frustrating fact that we are so often distracted from the matter at hand. Our mind wanders off and soon enough we're lost in thoughts and anxieties.

Can you imagine what it's like for children, who are still discovering the world around them and so are constantly bombarded by new things?

It is very common these days for children to have problems with focusing on the task at hand - some more than others. Studies show that disorder and anxiety disrupts children even more and they need to be taught how to get their attention in focus.

"When we came across these workbooks in France, we thought they were ideal for children with ADHD or indeed any children with concentration issues," Chris Gruppetta, Merlin Publishers director, said. The workbooks consist of simple concentration exercises for the children, and - good news for parents - also include concise clear notes and explanations for adults. 

The workbooks, which consist of a combination of stories and activities, essentially teach children how to be mentally and physically present in-the-now. The carefully planned-out activities aim to help children pay more attention to the task at hand, be more able to develop ideas without distractions, concentrate for a longer time and improve their memory.

Both workbooks were originally written by French therapist and stress management expert Florence Vertanessian de Boissoudy who leads bestselling workshops in France and Switzerland.

"With these books children will be able to focus more on themselves and the world around them, enabling them to live a fuller and happier life," said the author.

Illustrations by Melanie Combes help reach the aim as they are simple and straightforward, and enhance and not detract from the attention of the children. Nitgħallem Nikkonċentra 1 and 2 have been brilliantly adapted for Maltese children by Claudine Slater, a primary teacher, who has at heart the wellbeing of young students.

"The books encourage parents to work hand in hand with their children and under each exercise you will find notes for parents listing the benefits of each exercises. The stories show how beneficial mindfulness is," said Slater.  

In Nitgħallem Nikkonċentra 1, Luke finds an abandoned kitten in the garden and together they start exploring the world around them. In Nitgħallem Nikkonċentra 2, Amy and Mark are day dreamers. They wake up late, can't find their clothes and arrive late at school, but then they meet Master Owl who helps them put some order in their lives.

These books are ideal for children, parents and teachers who want to discover the world of mindfulness, and a more holistic way of going about life.

 

'Nitgħallem Nikkonċentra 1 & 2' are available from all bookstores or online from www.merlinpublishers.com