Mindfulness in Classrooms
When I began my writing journey, I wasn't sure what my next steps would be after publishing my debut book, Slow Down Amaya.
I researched different ways self-published children's authors share their books widely across the world. I discovered that school visits are a popular offer that many authors deliver.
Over the last 7 years I worked with children aged 7-12 years old therefore the thought of doing author visits sounded exciting.
I worked with children individually, in small groups and in large youth clubs to help them build their social emotional skills. This included working in a primary school one day a week for 3 out of 7 years.
As I'm not a school teacher, I’m not used to standing in front of a classroom of children. Although I was excited by the idea of a school visit there were nerves too. I delivered my first in person this spring and I'm so glad that I decided to offer author school visits. The children were so engaged in the sessions and it was wonderful to introduce them to mindfulness through activities and the story in my book.
Black History Month
Today is the start of Black History Month in the UK.
This month, and every month, is a great time to celebrate and support Black authors.
A 2021 Book Trust report highlighted:
“School visits as an important way to nurture the next generation of creators of colour. Exposure to visible role models can inspire and challenge how children see themselves and careers in the creative industry.”
It was also found that in 2021 only 5% of authors in the UK were People of Colour.
Ways to Support my Work
Whether you're a parent/carer, educator or both encouraging any children in your life to read and have access to diverse books is important.
Children will explore representation of different people through the literature they read. This helps them learn about diversity and inclusion, as well as see themselves and their peers in books.
All my author visits include short mindfulness activities and the chance for children, and teachers, to ask questions.
In-Person Visits
I offer in-person author visits to schools across Edinburgh. These interactive sessions are available to primary 1-3 children in their classrooms.
School Virtual Visits
I decided to offer virtual visits to schools to prevent the barrier of location. This means I can virtually reach more children and classrooms.
Introduce children to mindfulness through storytelling in any part of the world!
Homeschool Virtual Visits
One of my core values is inclusion therefore when thinking about author visits I was passionate about making them as inclusive as possible.
Children who are homeschooled might not go on the same kind of trips or have similar events as in the traditional schooling system. That's one of the reasons I wanted to include homeschoolers in my author visit options.
You can add a unique learning experience into your child's schedule with my book readings and engaging activities.
Discover more about my iin-person visits here.
Explore my virtual author visits here.
For Parents
If you’re a parent who wants to add a new book to your bookshelf, I have a book just for you. ‘Mindful Living: A Guide for You and Your Family’ helps you slow down and become more present in your daily life.