Mindfulness means paying attention and noticing our thoughts, feelings, physical sensations, behaviours and surrounding environment in the present. This awareness is without judgement – without believing there’s a right or wrong way to think or feel in a given moment. It is helpful for children as well as adults.

Benefits of mindfulness

Mindfulness is used to reduce stress and calm anxiety. Besides helping with regulating emotions, it can improve memory, focus and decision making. There are physical benefits, too. Learn about these benefits and more in:

• 11 Proven Benefits of Mindfulness
• Five Ways Mindfulness Meditation Is Good for Your Health
• Mindfulness: Why Practice It?

Four Easy Mindfulness Activities for Kids

While mindfulness is often associated with meditation, it is not the same. There are informal activities that bring attention to the present and promote mindfulness.  Here’s a sample:

1. Finger Breathing

Find other breathing activities in Deep Breathing Exercises for kids!

2. Mindful Walking

Silent walking isn’t the only way of introducing mindfulness to walking. Find other ways in 6 Ways to Engage Kids and Teens in Mindful Walking.

3. 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding

Grounding exercises are designed to connect you to what is happening to you physically in the moment. They can help manage overwhelming feelings or anxiety. Find more in 10 Grounding Exercises for Kids.

4. Glitter Jars

There’s more than one way to make a glitter jar. Find other recipes in 6 Ways to Make a Calm Down Jar.

Find more mindfulness activities for all ages in Mindfulness for Stress Relief.

Children’s Books

Over the last few years books have been published introducing children to mindfulness. Find some titles in:

• 7 Children’s Books with Mindfulness Messages – mindful
• 18 Books to Inspire Mindfulness & Meditation for the Whole Family |Summer Reading 2021 – School Library Journal
• 23 Children’s Books on Mindfulness and Meditation – Children’s Library Lady
• DEEP BREATHS! Mindfulness Books for Kids to Help Them Stay Calm & Present! – Happily Ever Elephants
• Mindfulness Resources for Children – Parentbooks