Data Sheet 1_Mind, body, health: qualitative insights into a holistic health concept for preschoolers.docx

Well-known in German-speaking countries, the program’s effects in early childhood education are little known. This analysis examined the qualitative portion of the larger mixed-method Kita Kneipp Study exploring the potential and challenges of implementing Kneipp in kindergartens to promote salutogenesis and prevent illness in children through teachers’ and children’s experiences.</p>Methods<p>Semi-structured Expert interviews with teachers and field notes from focused ethnographies of Kneipp activities in kindergartens were used to triangulate data.

Data were then thematically analyzed.</p>Results<p>Teachers observed improved resilience to cold and calming effects of the interventions. Children learned to support their own and others’ wellbeing by engaging in activities. Developing bodily awareness, Kneipp helped with self-regulation, promoted curiosity, self-confidence, and the ability to set boundaries.