Teach Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques (Simple Ones for Kids)
Ever tried to explain 'calm down' to a toddler mid-meltdown? Spoiler: they look at you like you’ve just asked them to recite the periodic table. Mindfulness for kids isn’t about zen gardens or chanting—sometimes, it’s just convincing your kid to watch their belly go up and down instead of launching spaghetti at the wall. If you’re desperate for a trick that *might* buy you three minutes of peace (or at least a pause in the chaos), this is your jam.
Mindfulness and simple relaxation techniques help kids learn to regulate their emotions and stress responses. Practicing belly breathing actually calms the nervous system, lowers cortisol (the stress hormone), and helps little brains build better impulse control. For parents, it’s a stealthy way to model emotional resilience—bonus: you get a few deep breaths, too.
How to do it
Announce, "Let’s do belly breathing!" and flop down on the floor together.
Place a stuffed animal or favorite toy on your child’s belly.
Show your child how to breathe in slowly through the nose so the toy rises, then breathe out through the mouth so the toy sinks.
Make it a game by saying, "Can you make Teddy go up and down three times?"
Key Tips:
- Keep the activity short, playful, and low-pressure.
- Focus on having fun—this isn’t a yoga class, it’s just a simple way to calm down together.
- Let your child choose the toy to make it more engaging.
- Join in and model the breathing yourself to encourage participation.
