By: Rachel Fowler, MS, LPC

Three simple ways to Practice Mindfulness with Children

Practicing mindfulness with children by taking simple Mindful Breaks can increase their ability to manage emotions. In our fast-paced world, it takes intentional effort to slow down and check in with ourselves. As adults, this can be difficult but now imagine a child trying to learn how to be mindful. Taking mindful breaks with children will help create the foundation for self-awareness and presence throughout the day. Mindfulness includes being aware of current emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations. Being present is challenging, and we truly experience our feelings without judgment. Learning how to be mindful takes practice and is not learned overnight. Below are three simple and fun games to play with your child to increase their ability to be mindful throughout the day.

Three Simple Ways to Practice Mindfulness with Children:

Balloon Belly Breathing: Imagine your belly is like a balloon. Inhale in, and notice how the balloon gets bigger as it inflates. Exhale out, and notice how the balloon gets smaller. In addition, if you want to make it a game, practice breathing techniques every time you both see a balloon. Nature Gratitude: Take a break outside, and name three things in nature for which you are grateful. As you identify these things, send them a small token of your gratitude. For example, say “Thank you, little butterfly” or “I appreciate you, pretty flower.” Remember to have fun and be silly with your child. It is okay! I Spy: Play a simple game of eye spy and get creative. You can identify objects with a specific color, shape, or texture. For example, say, “I spy something that looks fluffy, white and, in the sky,” or “I spy something tall, green and sturdy.” In another game version, you can identify and acknowledge your child’s strengths. For example, say, “I spy someone who worked hard and did their best on the math test”. Overall, this helps the child be present in the moment and acknowledge themselves and their effort.

Why is it important to take mindfulness breaks? 

Taking simple mindful breaks with children will help build and strengthen their ability to manage the waves of emotions they feel. It is the building block for identifying, acknowledging, and expressing feelings without judgment. In addition, this gives you small moments throughout the day to connect with your child.

What can you do as a parent or guardian:

Mindfulness practices are a simple and easy way to support children in learning to stay present and identify their emotions and thoughts. Be creative. Be encouraging. Most importantly, be present with them.

Begin Therapy or Support for Mental Health at Our Center in Katy, TX!

If you feel like your child could benefit from learning skills related to mindfulness and help improve their mental health, one of the therapists at The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch can help! To begin counseling in Katy Texas, follow these three steps:

1. Contact our office to set up an appointment or to get more information on therapy for children. 
2. Meet with one of our understanding therapists
3. Find other ways to help your child gain confidence with therapy today!

Other Therapy Services We Offer:

Here at The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch, we offer counseling services for people of all ages in areas including counseling for kids, counseling for young adults, teen counseling, couples counseling, eating disorder treatment, men’s issues, women’s issues, anxiety treatment, depression therapy, trauma counseling, family therapy, and group counseling. We provide helpful information on a variety of mental health topics. Our therapists strive to post blogs regularly. To learn more about our therapists and counseling services, please reach out to the Counseling Center today!