Mindfulness in paediatric occupational therapy practice: a phenomenological inquiry

Abstract

Purpose While research into mindfulness practices is on the rise across populations, there is evidence to suggest that clinical practice has outpaced the literature with regard to mindfulness in pediatric rehabilitation. The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions of occupational therapists who opt to incorporate mindfulness into their clinical practices with children and youth. Methods Hermeneutic phenomenology was the methodology of the study. The theoretical framework employed a Heideggerian-informed phenomenology of practice. Eight occupational therapists practicing in Canada and the United States participated in 90–120 min semi-structured interviews that elicited first-hand accounts of mindfulness in pediatric occupational therapy practice. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using Finlay’s four-step approach. Results Six salient themes were identified in the data: drawing from personal practice, enhancing participation, fostering healthy habits, adapting for children, keeping it playful, and doing with. Conclusion The findings of this study offer insights for therapists who are considering incorporating mindfulness into their practices with children and youth. Further, this research highlights a number of research priorities that require further inquiry.