Class sessions will begin with a short period of mindful movement. Parent-child dyads will then engage in a series of mindfulness and self-compassion mini-lessons and practices. Lessons incorporate fun metaphors, objects, and activities to teach relatable ideas and practices. Each class will also include a game.

How is parent-child interaction structured during the class?

Each parent-child pair will be invited to share a computer screen while they participate in the live-online sessions together. Parents and kids will be invited periodically to pause to discuss their class experiences with one another (in the online environment, the parent and child will mute themselves as they discuss their experiences with each other). There will also be opportunities for whole group and small group sharing.

What is my role as the parent/caregiver in the program?

The best way to support your child in this program is to be a co-learner and come with an open mind. The material we discuss in the course is applicable to humans of any age. When possible, model the material for your child by talking out loud often about your experiences with self-compassion. Talk about the difficult time you had, how you felt, and what you did or said to yourself. This is one of the most powerful ways to facilitate your child’s learning.

What if my child doesn’t want to come?

This is normal! Many children start the program with a variety of challenging feelings about the course including boredom and anxiety. If this happens for your child, you might…

• Acknowledge that these feelings are understandable
• Remind them they don’t ever have to share anything that they don’t want to
• Offer your child encouragement through favorite activities or mini-celebrations after completing sessions. 

What if my child gets distracted or has trouble sitting still/with online programs?

This is normal! Many children have this difficulty. If this happens for your child, you might…

• Acknowledge that distraction and trouble learning online is understandable
• Bring paper and pencil, and fidget objects to each session. Children can draw, write or fidget throughout. They are still benefiting!
• Remember the course will have movement as part of each session.
• Self-compassion is about noticing what you need and taking care of yourself. Need to stretch? Need a drink? Need a snack? Please do!
• Remind yourself that it is OK if your child seems disengaged at times, and consider you are “planting seeds” that may bloom at unexpected moments in the future

No, Jamie Lynn is very entertaining, and we often play games during class. Kids are sometimes sad when this six-week class is done because they miss our weekly gatherings.

Do I have to talk about my feelings in front of other people?

No. When Jamie Lynn asks a question, parents and kids mute themselves to discuss their responses with one another. Jamie Lynn sometimes gives participants the choice to share with the whole group, but whole group sharing is optional.

Why do I need to take this class?

Life is full of challenges. Self-compassion can help us to feel okay and connected to others when life is hard.

What if I don’t want to take this class?

You’re not the only kid that would rather play than take a self-compassion class. Other kids who take this class say that it helps them to be happier in life. Also, ask your grown-up to read the grown-up FAQs for ideas about how to help you get excited about taking this class.

Will this class help my parent?

Yes. This class will help your mom/dad/grown-up as much as it will help you. But….shhhh…..you don’t have to tell your mom or dad that!