Kilkenny teacher Bernie Woods, also known as the “Meaningful Múinteor,” is preparing to launch her new “Meaningful Mindful Poetry” series this month. The collection, published by Outside the Box Learning Resources, is aimed at encouraging mindfulness in young readers. Consisting of three books, the series is designed for children, preteens, and teenagers and includes poetry paired with thoughtful illustrations to help young people navigate difficult emotions and complex situations.
The series offers a valuable resource for parents, teachers, and children, promoting conversations on mindfulness to support mental well-being. With 18 years of experience as a primary school teacher, Woods brings a unique perspective to her work, having witnessed the positive impact of mindfulness techniques in the classroom.
“Poetry has always played a huge role in my life,” Woods shared. “I’ve seen how a poem can open up important conversations and allow children to express themselves. Publishing these poetry books is a dream come true, and I’m thrilled to bring these mindful tools to families and classrooms.”
As a certified Creative Mindfulness Practitioner, Woods also conducts workshops across Ireland’s South-East region, using creative methods to help children develop mindful practices. She emphasizes that mindfulness helps children slow down in a fast-paced world, reconnect with their bodies, and process emotions in healthy ways.
“In recent years, I’ve introduced thousands of children to mindfulness, and there’s a clear need for these tools in their lives,” Woods explained. “Mindfulness gives children a way to ground themselves and return to the present moment.”
The Meaningful Mindful Poetry series offers age-specific books for children aged 5 to 8, 8 to 11, and 11 to 14. With growing research highlighting the benefits of mindfulness on learning, self-esteem, and emotional connection, Woods’s work arrives at a critical time for youth mental health.
The official launch of the series will take place at The Book Centre in Waterford City on Friday, November 22, at 6 p.m.
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