SUGAR CAMP - Students in the Three Lakes District practice a new form of discipline. Instead of punishments students learn how to calm down by practicing the art of mindfulness.
"When you're mindful you're in the present moment," said eight- year-old Brooke Neumann.
Students from Pre- K to 6th grade in the Three Lakes School District took a few time outs from life this month.
"[They're] learning how to accept life and take life as it comes and enjoy the present moments," said Sugar Camp third grade teacher Ali Pichowski.
This time out isn't a punishment. It gives students time to reflect on themselves.
The schools wanted a new and effective way to keep kids focused so it brought Mindfulness Practitioner Janele Dupuis in twice a week for four weeks.
"They'll share with me, 'my little sister was just bothering me this weekend and I remembered to use my breath'," said Dupuis.
Dupuis uses breathing exercises and meditation to show kids different tools to deal with life.
"They're in control of how they react or respond to something," said Dupuis.
The project goes beyond the classroom.
"I was able to get angry easily," said Neumann.
It's also helped Neumann deal with nagging siblings.
"Now I try breathing," said Neumann.
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