Closing Eyes

Overview

The most obvious way to avoid distractions while relaxing or meditating, is to close the eyes. For some people, including young students, this can be difficult. It requires practice and the creation of a “safe” environment.

Practising closing eyes for extended periods of time, with groups of younger students, is a skill that may occupy quite a few lessons before Meditation can be introduced. Difficulties have been overcome in a number of ways: some classes use “blackout masks” similar to those provided by airlines; in other classes students who are not yet ready to close their eyes look down at the desk or an image, or their hands in their lap and contract not to let their eyes wander around and distract others.

Teach about closing of eyes

Always remember to invite children to close their eyes… it is difficult for some children to do this.

Set clear expectations if a student chooses to keep their eyes open:

• They must agree to respect the right of others to close their eyes and not disturb them.
• Sit the child so that they are not a distraction to others.
• Give the child a specific place or object/ symbol to look at.

Begin slowly and practice closing eyes each day gradually increasing the time.

Choose a time that you know will be achievable and age appropriate to begin with e.g., 10 seconds.