Mindfulness Activity: "Teddy Bear Belly Breathing" Helps Children Focus and Relax
"Magnificent in its simplicity."
We love this activity that Greg Graber, Director of SEL and Mindfulness at Lausanne Collegiate School in Memphis, provided to us about "Teddy Bear Belly Breathing."
"A mindfulness program does not have to be anything elaborate or complex. In fact, I have seen some of the most simple ones net the best results. For instance, one time visiting a kindergarten, the teacher had the students lie on their backs. She then had them place stuffed teddy bears on their stomachs and encouraged them to watch their “breathing buddies” go up and down every time they breathed. It was magnificent in its simplicity and in its effectiveness in getting the little kids to focus on their breathing. It calmed them down and put them into a relaxed state in no time."
mindful activity packs for families, educators, and those who work with children
“Floating Kitty”
We hope you enjoy this mindful activity pack, inspired by 7-yr-old Axel! Axel has noticed how his kitties would rest with their paws tucked in, and how calm and relaxed they are in this position… He also said they look like “floating kitties!” And with that, we bring you this “Floating Kitty” theme for calm and relaxation.
“Gentle Breezes and Bluebirds”
There is a weather proverb that states: “Bluebirds are a sign of spring, warm weather and gentle south breezes.” Along with this, the spiritual meaning of bluebirds includes love, peace, trust, dedication and positive change. We thought this would make for a relevant theme right now, and the idea of being gentle on yourself too. Try the mantra: "I am peaceful. I find softness in my heart. May I be gentle on myself."
“You Are Not Alone”
Remember that we are all the same. We are all made of the same materials, we experience the same feelings, go through pain, struggles and anger, but we all too easily think we are alone in this. We are not alone. We are here together. Remind yourself of this when you struggle. Now find your inner peace and calm which is always here for you. Take a deep breath in, and a calming breath out. Now tell yourself, “I am here. Everything I need is within me. I am not alone.”
Thank you to Greg and Lausanne for sharing this activity with us! You can read more about mindfulness from Greg's book, "Slow Your Roll," found on Amazon here.
