Mindfulness Class

Mindfulness Class, Fridays, 10:30-11:30, Fort Lowell Park, starting February 13. Image of a pink cartoon brain smiling and meditating. In the background are the Fort Lowell playground and pond.

WHO: For kids ages 5-10 (flexible age range). Neurodivergent kids and kids with disabilities welcome! Taught by Kate O’Rourke, M.Ed, licensed educator. I have 15+ years of experience as a special ed teacher, developmental therapist, and homeschooling parent. My teaching is secular and nontraditional, and I value diversity, equity, and inclusion.

WHAT: A weekly outdoor class. Every class is active, social, fun, AND mindful - we practice self-regulation techniques like breathing, awareness activities, and affirmations, and focus on topics like self-care, empathy, and managing feelings.

WHERE: Fort Lowell Park playground. Occasionally, we'll meet in other nearby locations, like the pond or waterfall (with advance notice). Parking, shade, and public bathrooms available. Every child must have a parent or responsible adult nearby.

WHEN: Fridays, 10:30-11:30 am, starting February 13, 2026. Classes will run through March, with option to extend if there is enough interest.

HOW MUCH: $20 per class, or $68 for a 4-class package ($17 per class). I accept ESA funds! You can pay with ClassWallet, Venmo, or cash. *If you don’t have ESA funds and need a scholarship, please note that when you sign up below.

Two 5-star reviews. “My son LOVES this class!” “A wonderful, engaging, multisensory, creative, and affirming experience. My kiddo loved connecting with Kate and really enjoyed the adventure activities. We’re excited to continue."

Check out my 5 star reviews on Outschool!

Tentative Schedule

I adapt learning based on learners’ interests, ideas, and challenges, so this topic list is not set in stone - it will change. But I will keep you updated of the exact plan every week before class. Every session will start with fun icebreakers and mindfulness activities to enhance attention, focus, and self-regulation. Topic / activity requests are welcome!

February 13 - Self-love. Read "You Matter," play parachute games, and make a valentine for yourself. (There will be extra supplies if you want to take paper home to make valentines for others.)

February 20 - Acceptance. Read "Tacky the Penguin," act out the story, and have a dance party where we celebrate weirdness and appreciate you for being uniquely YOU!

February 27 - Managing feelings. Talk about the golden questions we can ask ourselves: What do you feel? What do you need? Play a game where we talk about / act out problem scenarios, and act out solutions for managing those feelings. Each child takes home a “What do you feel, what do you need?” booklet.

March 6 - Attention & Focus. Special meeting location: Fort Lowell Pond! Short centering / meditation activity. Practice using our 5 senses to explore the pond from different perspectives. Practice walking calmly around the water fowl, and feed them peas and grapes. Bring binoculars if you have them!

Future topics, dates TBD: Empathy, Community, Friendship, Self-Advocacy, Communication, Conflict Resolution, Big Picture Thinking, etc. We will circle back and revisit many topics. Many classes will cover more than one topic.

Fill out the form to reserve your spot!

“A child is mysterious and powerful, and contains within themself the secret of human nature.”

Maria Montessori