Mindful Mentoring
Developing resiliency, emotional regulation, and a positive sense of self in children ages 8–12 through mindfulness, yoga, and cognitive-behavioural tools.
Building Resilience in Young Minds
Mindful Mentoring is a transformative group mentoring program delivered by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Vancouver Island. Launched in October 2023, it guides children ages 8–12 toward self-care, emotional well-being, and a stronger sense of self.
Delivered during school hours at Rock City Elementary in partnership with School District 68, the program removes transportation and financial barriers — making it accessible to every child, regardless of background.
Mindful Mentoring is a proud component of the City of Nanaimo Youth Resilience Strategy, a city-wide initiative funded by the federal government to empower youth, build resilience, and prevent violence and crime.
The program is facilitated by Luisa Correa Quezada, a certified yoga instructor (200 E-RYT, YACEP, RPYT), who brings expertise, compassion, and creativity to every session.
Four Pillars of Well-Being
Every session is designed to build on these core foundations, giving children practical tools they carry with them long after the program ends.
Self-Care
Acquiring valuable skills to manage stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges through breathwork, movement, and mindfulness.
Self-Concept
Nurturing a positive self-image and building a strong sense of self-worth through affirmations and reflective activities.
Positive Thinking
Learning the power of optimism and positivity in shaping our outlook on life and how we respond to challenges.
Attachment
Understanding the roots of our emotions and how our connections with others shape our well-being and resilience.
A Structured Journey of Growth
Each week builds on the last, guiding children through a carefully sequenced curriculum developed by certified instructor Luisa Correa Quezada. The program integrates two primary modules: Yoga & Mindfulness and Therapeutic Cognitive Tools.
Introduction to Emotions & Breath
Belly breathing, "feelings weather chart," Calm Balloon visualization.
Building Strength & Confidence
Mountain Pose, Warrior I & II, Lion's Breath, strength affirmations.
Finding Balance in Emotions
Tree Pose, Eagle Pose, Alternate Nostril Breathing, emotion stones.
Expressing & Releasing Emotions
Bee Breath, emotion mandala, guided cloud visualization.
Cultivating Gratitude & Connection
Partner yoga, Heart Breathing, gratitude tree group activity.
Calming the Mind & Body
Restorative poses, Ocean Breath (Ujjayi), body scan meditation.
Managing Stress & Challenges
Warrior sequence, Four-Part Breathing, personal coping cards.
Empowerment & Celebration
Favourite poses, Sunshine Breath, keepsake mindfulness journal.
60-Minute Class Structure
Every class follows a consistent, nurturing structure that helps children feel safe, engaged, and ready to learn.
See the Program Come to Life
Students at Rock City Elementary participating in Mindful Mentoring sessions — outdoors and in the classroom.
What People Are Saying
I have witnessed firsthand how participants develop greater confidence, improved emotional regulation, and an increased ability to manage stress through mindfulness and movement.
Students returned to class calmer and more focused. Their ability to self-regulate noticeably improved. We have seen shy and hesitant students develop leadership skills.
My child came home proud of the breathing and mindfulness tools they learned and is using them daily.
Two initially shy girls grew to take leadership roles in activities, transforming group morale.
Proven Results, Real Change
Since launching in October 2023, Mindful Mentoring has grown from a 7-student pilot into an established, community-embedded program with measurable outcomes documented through City of Nanaimo quarterly reporting.
- Over 66 students served in 2025 across three groups at Rock City Elementary
- 92% average attendance and consistently positive teacher feedback
- Documented improvements in emotional regulation, confidence, and peer connection
- Delivered at no cost to families during school hours, eliminating all access barriers
- Trauma-informed and culturally responsive — welcoming all children regardless of background
- Additional SD68 schools have requested program delivery for 2026, demonstrating unmet demand
- Formally integrated into the City of Nanaimo Youth Resilience Strategy
Proudly Supported By
Mindful Mentoring is made possible through institutional partnerships and community investment. All programming is provided free of charge to participating families.
City of Nanaimo — Building Safer Communities Fund
Mindful Mentoring operates under formal City of Nanaimo Agreement #3519 and its 2025 Amendment #1, with multi-year funding secured through March 2026. The program is part of the City's Youth Resilience Strategy — a federally funded, city-wide initiative to empower youth and prevent violence.
The program meets quarterly reporting requirements and participates in monthly steering committee oversight, ensuring full institutional accountability.
Want to support this program?
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Mindful Mentoring is free for all families and delivered during school hours at Rock City Elementary. Spaces are limited — register today to secure your child's spot in the next cohort.
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