Play is the highest level of human development in childhood. It gives joy, freedom, contentment, inner and outer rest, peace with the world.
Freidrich Froebel
Play is an essential part of a child’s life. Having worked with children for many years I have been able to create a whole collection of activities and games and many of them promote mindfulness and calm. From singing songs and dancing with a toddler, finger painting with a 5-year-old, writing stories with 10-year-olds, there is so much to choose from.
Exploration and discovery are at the core of a child’s existence, it is how they learn. Therefore when a child is feeling unsettled or struggling to manage feelings, certain games and activities can the perfect distraction. Refocusing a child’s attention can quickly and effectively change their state of mind (also the adult taking care of them). Try this simple mindfulness breathing game and see how you get along. Keep practicing so the child gets used to the exercise and most of all have some fun with it! Soon enough the child will begin to use their own breath as an anchor for calm.
