A Mindful Child
By Vicki Schaefer of @_littlewiseone
There are lots of ways to describe mindfulness but to me, it means bringing your focus and awareness into the present moment. Mindfulness has amazing benefits for children’s focus and wellbeing. No matter how busy life gets, here are some simple ways to bring your child’s attention inward and help them cultivate a sense of calmness and inner peace.
Take it Slow
Teaching mindfulness to children is a gradual process. It’s important to create an atmosphere of acceptance, patience, understanding and fun. Children learn mostly through observation. By practicing presence in your own life, you will inspire them to try it too.
In-between Moments Matter
A great way to introduce mindfulness to children of any age is through the senses. As you walk through the world together, take notice of what is around. Can you hear the birds before you see them? What does the ground sound like as you walk over it?
Ask your little one to pass you something in slow motion. This brings awareness to their actions and is always great for a laugh.
For older children, encourage them to explore their inner world and the power of their mind by getting in touch with what they see when they close their eyes.
Try this: When doing a puzzle, building Lego or looking at shells on the beach, rather than watch your child automatically grab things, have them think about what they want first and then search for it using only their eyes.
There is magic in silence
Moments of quiet during the day provide a much needed break from sensory overload, helping children to recharge and find balance. Silence offers an opportunity for reflection giving children the time and space to better understand their thoughts, feelings and emotions.
Screens, although convenient, can be a distraction and take away meaningful moments of imagination and innovative thinking.
Don’t Forget to Breathe
Breathing exercises are another great tool in supporting children to regulate their
emotions. Five Finger Breath: Trace the fingers of your hand, breathing in slowly through your nose as you go up and out through your nose as you come down.
Lets Eat
At meal time, encourage children to explore the colours, textures, smells and different flavours of their food. Encourage chewing slowly and savouring each bite.
Bedtime
Stories, visualisations and affirmations are a great way to reflect and connect at the end of the day. Be mindful of the volume and rhythm of your voice. Reading slowly and speaking softly supports children to cultivate feelings of contentment, filling their hearts as they drift off into a peaceful sleep.
By practicing mindfulness, even a few minutes a day, your children will develop valuable skills for managing emotions, building focus and cultivating a sense of wellbeing.
For more mindfulness activities and tips, follow Little Wise One on Instagram @_littlewiseone
Vicki Schaefer is a childrens yoga and yoga therapy teacher and mindfulness coach. She is also an early childhood educator with over twenty five years experience. Vicki is the co-founder of Little Wise One, a brand that supports children’s emotional and spiritual wellbeing around the globe.
