A new program launched by the owner of Ebb and Flow in Onset aims to give kids the tools needed to deal with an increasingly hectic world.

“I really feel with little kids there is so much craziness, and they have so much put on them, this will really help them breathe, take a step back, and recognize where they are,” said Beth McLacklan of Ebb and Flow.

Starting on July 6, McLacklan’s “Mindful Sprouts, Seedlings and Teens” classes will offer guided meditations and lessons on the art of mindfulness – the practice of focusing your awareness on the present moment while observing thoughts and feelings in a non-judgmental way. Already proven to be an effective way of helping adults cope with stress, the practice is being used to boost mental health in children.

The classes will last 45 minutes for the younger age groups and up to 90 minutes for older children, said McLacklan. The guided classes will feature meditations on breath, visualization, sound therapy and other techniques.

Essentially, it’s about “exploring things kids don’t get a lot of exposure that will help them connect with their emotions, slow down and be more aware of the choices they make,” said McLacklan.

Classes for three different age groups will be offered: 4 to 7 year olds, 8 to 12 year olds and 13 and older. The 4 to 7 group will meet from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The 8 to 12 group will meet from 5 to 6 p.m.

For more information, call 508-273-7763 or email: info@ebbandflowwellness.com. Ebb and Flow is located at 215 Onset Ave.