Kohl’s Mindful Me Program
Center for Family Health & Safety Department
Toxic stress affects the mental and physical health of a child. Toxic stress occurs when a child experiences adversity such as extreme poverty, abuse, exposure to violence, substance abuse, or mental illness. These life events are called Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), and can turn into chronic and/or behavioral health issues.
Resilience is the characteristic of having had ACEs, and still managing to grow, learn, and thrive. Contrary to popular understanding, resilience is not something you are born with; it must be fostered through the healthy relationship caregivers make with you in your childhood. This can include but is not exclusive to your parent, grandparent, foster parent, teacher, and community leader. It only takes one consistent, supportive, present adult in a child’s life to buffer the harmful effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences.
Kohl’s Mindful Me is a school- and community-based program aimed at building childhood and family resilience. The mission is to support children, families, and communities to achieve their full potential in health and wellness. The team provides training and education to communities and school staff on ACEs, and offers strategies to use with children and families. The team also provides stress management and self-regulation skills through yoga, mindfulness and gardening.
For more information, please contact the Kohl's Mindful Me team at mindfulme@phoenixchildrens.com
Kohl's Mindful Me Full Deck Mindful Tips