Considering that most educators think it is essential to help children attain meaningful, emotionally satisfying lives, teaching should start with developing ways of being that lead to healthy personal development. Teaching mindfulness--practices that focus and calm one's mind--is a key foundation of such development, according to the authors, who present mindfulness trainings in schools. They discuss five important areas (or "literacies") of mindful awareness: somatic (body), cognitive, emotional, social, and environmental awareness. They also describe simple practices--such as breathing techniques--educators can guide students to try out in any classroom.