¶ … spiritual development in young children and what the definition of spiritual development was for early childhood educators. In addition, Schein wished to analyze and describe learning experiences and activities that inhibited or fostered spiritual development for a young child. Grounded in conceptual frameworks such as Buber's I and Thou, a theory was developed, deriving qualitative data from a 12 participant group of professional early childhood educators interested in spiritual development. Through qualitative information gathered from hour-long interviews and an audio recorded follow-up, the study also gained insight from the educators through spirituality journals. The results pointed to a description of dispositions that would invoke a spiritual process. "The resulting theory includes a description of a spiritual process involving both basic dispositions (wonderment, awe, joy, inner peace) and complex dispositions (caring, kindness, empathy, and reverence). Participants reported these dispositions as nurtured by deep connections, modeling, and spiritual moments" (Schein, 2012, p. 1). Highlighting a need to understand the spiritual process in order to foster spiritual development in young children.

Spiritual development may often times be an essential component to building resilience in children. While children worldwide face a plethora of stressors, both chronic and acute, that can increase their risk for physical and mental maladjustment, not all children develop adjustment problems. Some...

A 2003 article shows how children through resilience, can overcome many obstacles that would otherwise traumatize a child. In addition, other children, through spirituality, can also seem resilient in the face of adversity. "Others, while not technically "resilient," are better able to cope than are most. The religiosity and spirituality of a child (or a child's family) are factors that may help children weather the stressors and crises that come their way" (Kliewer, Wade, & Worthington, 2003, p. 859).
Spirituality is a means of developing inner strength. Although some people are not religious, spiritual beliefs can and do increase a person's ability to handle obstacles. Children at times feel powerless to stop things outside of their control. Investigating what keeps some resilient can help in identifying the reasons why spirituality and resiliency can at times coincide.

School can sometimes be a place that requires a place where children can develop their spirituality. With children experiencing stress from course work, bullying, and identity issues, spiritual and moral programs could help children learn to properly cope with stressors. A 2013 paper examined a spiritual themed program where students were encouraged to reflect and build on virtues such as 'responsibility', 'reliability', and 'kindness'. Some of the positive results from the program…