From Early Childhood to Global Citizenship: The Synergy of Contemplative Practices and Ecological Learning in Advancing the SDGs
Pooja Sahni, Chirag Hareshkumar Rajyaguru, Ashita Allam Raju, Patricia A. Jennings, Pramod Kumar Sharma, Niccolò Barbetti
February 16, 2026 DOI: 10.35542/osf.io/ym8xv_v1 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review |
|---|---|
| Interventions | Mindfulness meditation immersive natural experiences |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Key findings | Argues that integrating contemplative practices with ecological learning in early childhood education can enhance attention regulation, emotional resilience, stress management, sensory-motor integration, creativity, and ecological awareness, and contends that embedding these approaches in educational frameworks supports holistic development and the Sustainable Development Goals. |
Abstract
This chapter explores the integration of contemplative practices and ecological learning in early childhood education as a holistic approach to fostering child development and advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Drawing on insights from research and science, we examine how mindfulness, meditation, and immersive natural experiences synergistically enhance cognitive, emotional, and social development in children. Contemplative practices are shown to improve attention regulation, emotional resilience, and stress management, while exposure to nature promotes sensory-motor integration, thinking, reflection, creativity, and ecological awareness. Together, these practices nurture prosocial behaviors, environmental stewardship, and a sense of interconnectedness—qualities vital for addressing global challenges outlined in the SDGs. We review empirical evidence as well as some case studies, linking these practices to holistic personal as well as social growth, and discuss their potential to create adaptive, sustainable mindsets in future generations. The paper advocates for embedding these integrative approaches into educational frameworks to align child development strategies with sustainable development objectives.