A homegrown programme aims to help children become more resilient.

Sir Ashley Bloomfield has launched a new mindfulness practice in schools through Pause, Breathe, Smile.

It comes as Southern Cross's latest Healthy Futures survey shows 60 percent of parents are concerned about their children’s ability to cope with the pressures of life.

He says it's shown to drive more positive behaviours, help children regulate emotions and pay attention.

"You don't just want something that's going to work while the children are in class - but actually, it does endure and it carries over into other aspects of their lives."

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