How to Teach Young Children About Mindfulness and Being Present
Mindfulness might sound like a big concept for little kids—but even young children can benefit from learning how to slow down, notice their thoughts and feelings, and connect with the world around them. With simple breathing, movement, and observation exercises, mindfulness can help kids feel calm, focused, and confident.
Why Mindfulness Matters
- Helps manage big emotions
- Improves focus and attention
- Reduces anxiety and overwhelm
- Promotes self-awareness and self-control
- Encourages gratitude and calm thinking
Option 1: Practice Mindful Breathing and Movement
Activity Idea:
Teach “belly breathing”:
- Place a stuffed animal on your child’s tummy.
- Watch it rise and fall as they breathe slowly in and out.
Try “stretch and breathe” sessions: - Reach up high, breathe in…
- Touch toes, breathe out…
Do this for a few minutes each morning or after high-energy play.
What Kids Learn:
- How to self-regulate using breath
- Body awareness and calm focus
- That slowing down can feel good
Tool Suggestion:
Create a “Calm Corner” with a soft mat, breathing cards, and sensory objects.
Option 2: Use Observation Games to Build Awareness
Activity Idea:
Play mindful “I Spy” games indoors or outside:
- “I spy something that makes a sound…”
- “I spy something that smells nice…”
Encourage using all five senses and staying quiet and still while observing.
What Kids Learn:
- Awareness of the present moment
- Sensory grounding
- Joy in slowing down and noticing details
Book Suggestion:
Listening to My Body by Gabi Garcia — teaches kids to tune in to their thoughts, feelings, and physical signals.
More Ways to Introduce Mindfulness
- Use guided audio: Short kid-friendly meditations or body scans.
- Do a gratitude circle: “What’s one good thing from today?”
- Take mindful walks: Focus on what you see, hear, and feel.
- Draw your feelings: Let them express what’s happening inside.
Final Thoughts
Mindfulness helps children understand their thoughts, calm their emotions, and enjoy the present. With just a few minutes a day, you can teach your child how to breathe, observe, and connect to themselves and their world. These small moments of awareness add up to a lifetime of calm confidence and inner peace.