Discovering Code and Calm

In “All Systems Go” we explore both mindfulness and coding by simulating a NASA-style “systems check” before launching a rocket in Scratch, a beginner-friendly coding platform. We notice how focusing on one step at a time is key to both mindfulness and coding.

> Mindfulness Focus

Focus & Present Moment Awareness

> Coding Focus

Scratch, Sequential Script Execution

> Objectives

Introduction of mindfulness and coding through a sequential "systems check," connecting present moment awareness to the coding principle of sequential execution, inspired by real NASA launch procedures.

Our “Beautiful, Brief Bubbles” lab explores two main ideas: how everything in life changes and how we can use that idea in coding. Through bubbles and Scratch programming, we learn about impermanence — the fact that nothing lasts forever — and how variables in coding work the same way by holding different values at different times.

> Mindfulness Focus

Impermanence and Letting Go

> Coding Focus

Variables

> Objectives

Illustrate the concept of impermanence through the ephemeral nature of bubbles, and connect this insight with how variables hold and change values in coding.

In "The Incredible Pause Button," we explore how mindfulness and coding help us make better choices. Just like a video game lets you pause before making your next move, we can use our own "pause button" in real life. We also learn about if statements in coding, which help computers (and us!) make decisions based on different situations.

> Mindfulness Focus

Conditional Awareness and Conscious Choices

> Coding Focus

If Statements

> Objectives

To develop emotional awareness and mindful response patterns to emotional triggers while introducing kids to the structure of “if” statements in coding.

In this lab, we combine mindfulness with coding by creating a Scratch program that models different breathing exercises. Just like loops in coding repeat actions, our breath follows a natural rhythm. By programming mindful breathing patterns, children learn how both computers and our bodies rely on repeated cycles to function effectively.

> Mindfulness Focus

Breath Awareness

> Coding Focus

Loops

> Objectives

To connect the natural rhythm of breathing with the concept of loops in coding, while practicing mindful breathing techniques for emotional regulation and focus.

In the final two labs of the series, we challenge our young coders to conceptualize and create projects that enhance wellbeing and mindfulness. Following a set of five principles that we call "The Codebloom Way", children practice coding with intention and purpose, focusing on creating digital tools that help themselves and others find calm or manage emotions.

> Mindfulness Focus

Creating with Intention and Purpose

> Coding Focus

Project development; using variables, if statements and loops

> Objectives

To apply coding concepts learned throughout the series while practicing mindful creation to code a project that enhances personal wellbeing and mindfulness.

In this culminating lab, we showcase and celebrate the mindful coding projects students have developed. We present our wellbeing-focused creations to family members and peers, reflecting on our journey of combining mindfulness with programming while sharing how our digital tools can support emotional regulation and personal growth.

> Mindfulness Focus

Reflection, sharing, and celebrating mindful creation.

> Coding Focus

Project refinement, debugging and presentation skills.

> Objectives

To complete and polish mindful coding projects while practicing presentation skills and reflecting on the integration of mindfulness and programming concepts learned throughout the series. Students share their creations with family members, demonstrating how technology can be used intentionally to support wellbeing.