Practicing mindfulness is the idea of being present and focused on our emotions, body, and surroundings in a current moment. Teaching kids this practice is not only beneficial to improving their physical and mental well being but also enhances their social and emotional skills. Grab these FREE printables with Mindfulness Activities for Kids to kick off the New Year in a positive way that your littles will enjoy.
After a daunting 2020 filled with troublesome news headlines, increased time indoors, in front of screens and away from family and friends, I know like many other parents we've found ourselves looking for ways to help our children cope with daily stressors and anxiety surrounding the coronavirus pandemic. Practicing mindfulness is an empowering way for our children to learn to self-regulate and manage their big feelings and these 5 activities will help them to pay more attention to the present moment while using all five senses to intentionally connect with their surroundings.
As parents and caregivers we should also take note that modeling these practices by incorporating them into our own routines will likely make our kids more open-minded to trying them out. Take a look at each one and it's purpose and then click on the pop up box to download the free printables at the end of this post.
1. Trace and Color by Number
Coloring is an awesome way to have fun and relax for kids of all ages! In our home with tween and teen boys we all have our favorite themed coloring books (everything from Bob Ross to mythical creatures and the Minions) to enjoy on lazy weekends or when we're just in need of a quick moment to unplug. Using the color by number key allows little ones to distract themselves from a busy day of learning in a creative, mindul way that can reduce anxiety and be quite therapeutic.
2. Trace and Breathe Mindfulness Activity
Having children focus their attention on their breathing is a simple option to have them slow down and take their mind off things that may not be so enjoyable to think about. In this mindful activity they will trace their fingers along each row of the rainbow and use all 5 of their senses to name what they can see, touch, hear, smell and taste while inhaling and exhaling.
3. Mindfulness Bingo Activity
Children can enjoy the benefits of mindfulness by playing this easy going game of bingo that will encourage them to pay attention to the objects and people surrounding them.
4. Daily Reflection Activity Sheet
Self reflection is a key component to mindfulness for kids because it allows them to become more aware of how they feel, react and process certain experiences each day. This daily reflection activity sheet will help them to identify their feelings so that they can be guided on how to handle them in a positive and encouraging way.
5. Yoga Poses to Promote Mindfulness
Yoga is a great activity to promote mindfulness because it allows for awareness of both the physical body and the emotional self. Through varied poses, children are able to practice visualization and balance while discovering a sense of calm.
Do your children practice mindfulness at home?
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Download the FREE Mindfulness Activities Printables
Simply click on the top right corner pop-out box to download & print. Easy Peasy!
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