Come discover creative, fun and meaningful tools for incorporating mindfulness into everyday activities with children and teens!
For mental health professionals, educators, and youth program leaders. Learn creative, fun and meaningful tools and exercises to support the effective use of mindfulness in school, after school, and in therapy.
Presenter: Dr. Melissa Johnson
When: Saturday, July 20, 2019, 9:30am – 3:30pm (Sign in and light breakfast 9:00 – 9:30)
Exciting current research in the fields of psychology, education, and 
neuroscience indicate that mindfulness practices can help children and teens improve attention and focus, manage stress, enjoy more positive relationships, and increase optimism! Whether you work in an educational or clinical setting or an after-school program, mindfulness tools can be an asset to the youth with whom you work. This presentation will provide participants with current research, practical tools, and experiential exercises to support the effective use of mindfulness with children and teens.
Location: Institute for Girls’ Development, 95 N. Marengo Ave, Suite 100, Pasadena, CA
CE units: 5.0
Course Level: This training is offered at the intermediate level, although those new to the world of mindfulness can benefit. Participants will learn about research, theory and application. This course incorporates a number of experiential learning activities that can be used with children and teens.
Cost: $145
• Early Bird Special: $130 until May 30
• Graduate Student Rate: $75
• $15 Group Discount
Click here to go to an Institute for Girls’ Development registration page
OBJECTIVES
Attendees will be able to:
∙ Identify one research-based psychological benefit of mindfulness for children and teens
∙ Identify one research-based social/relational benefit for children and teens practicing mindfulness
∙ Describe three mindfulness activities appropriate for children
∙ Describe three mindfulness activities appropriate for teens
∙ Identify two ways of involving parents and families when teaching children and teens mindfulness skills.
∙ Identify one activity they (the participant) can do to develop their own mindfulness practice and skills
SCHEDULE
9:00 – 9:30 Registration and light breakfast
9:30–9:45 Welcome, Introduction and Overview of the training
9:45–10:00 Opening mindfulness and participant introductions
10:00–10:20 Why Mindfulness? Research on adults, teens, and children
10:20–10:30 Video about Mindful Breathing
10:30-10:45 Basic Breath Awareness techniques for children and teens
10:45-11:00 Break – and mindful snacking
11:00-12:00 Focused Attention and Spacious Attention: Using the 5 senses and movement
12:00-12:30 Lunch (provided)
12:30-1:00 Mindfulness with for difficult feelings
1:00-1:30 Compassion practices: Engaging children and teens in friendly thoughts practices
1:30-1:45 Introduction of Clinical and Classroom scenarios
1:45 – 2:00 Break
2:00-2:35 Applications to Clinical and Classroom situations
2:35-2:50 Developing a personal mindfulness practice
2:50-3:15 Break out sessions: How do I take this back to my practice, organization or school?
3:15-3:30 Discussion of applications and action plans. Closing Circle Mindfulness Activity.
3:30 Evaluations and Dismissal
PRESENTER
Melissa J Johnson, PhD, licensed psychologist (PSY 13102), is the founder & CEO of the Institute for Girls’ Development in Pasadena, CA. An expert on child and teen development with a Master’s in Education and Doctorate in Counseling Psychology, Dr. Johnson has worked with children and teens for over 30 years providing empowerment opportunities for individuals, groups and communities. At the Institute, Dr. Johnson and her team deliver strength-based therapy, inspiring educational programs, and consultation with schools and districts to help create positive school climates. Dr. Johnson’s approach to raising and mentoring girls draws together contemporary research in neuroscience, mind/body health, and evidence based interventions in mindfulness and social & emotional intelligence. The book STAND UP! SPEAK OUT! ® Curriculum Training : Train to Use the Essential Curriculum for Educators, Counselors, Program Leaders, and Others Who Work with Girls (ages 8-13) is now available to provide practical tools for those who mentor girls.
Dr. Johnson has been recognized with numerous awards for her work in psychology and the community. Dr. Johnson has been recognized by the state of California as an Outstanding Woman in Business award in 2011. The Junior League of Pasadena named Dr. Johnson as their 2012 honoree for her contributions to the Pasadena community. And the San Gabriel Valley Psychological Association awarded Dr. Johnson a lifetime achievement award in 2014. Dr. Johnson is former Interim Chair of the Masters Programs in Counseling at the University of La Verne and has served as an adjunct faculty member at both the University of La Verne and the University of Southern California. Dr. Johnson is dedicated to education, as a therapist, as a supervisior, and as a consultant for educators and mental health professionals. In fact, she is proud of the fact that she is a 4th generation educator. As a senior faculty member of the Institute’s training program, she delights in creating innovative learning opportunities. She is a sought after speaker on both coasts of the U.S. Her peer reviewed publications have appeared in the Journal of Humanistic Psychology and Professional Psychology: Research and Practice. Her numerous articles about raising strong girls have appeared in community online blogs and newsletters. Dr. Johnson’s book chapter, Gilrs In-Between: Social, Emotional, Physical and Sexual Development in Context was released in 2014 in the Springer publication, Maternal Mental Health Across the Life Span.
CANCELLATION / REFUND POLICY and ACCOMMODATIONS
Refund requests and accommodations will be handled through the Institute for Girls’ Development. Please feel free to call (626.585.8075, ext. 116), fax (626.585.0440), or e-mail Paige Hoby, at PHobey@IFGD.care with questions, requests and registration information.
For more information go to the Institute for Girls’ Development website (www.InstituteForGirlsDevelopment.com)
CE APPROVALS
Illuminated Education is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Illuminated Education maintains the responsibility for this program and its content.
The California Board of Behavioral Sciences accepts APA approval for CE activities for MFTs, LCSWs, LPPCs and/or LEPs.
Outside of California, please check with your licensing board to see whether APA approval is accepted for CE credit in your state. Please call Dr. Cooper if you have further questions (626-744-9472).