Mindfulness is learning to be present in the moment. This practice can be a critical self-regulation strategy for children and teens (and adults too, of course). There are lots of benefits to practicing mindfulness including improved self-regulation skills, support managing emotions, and creating a sense of calm. So, it’s fair to say that this is […]
10+ Free Calm-Down Tools
We all need strategies to cope with stress and tough emotions. This is especially true for children and teens who are still growing and learning. Specifically, I’ve put this list of calm-down tools together to act as a “toolbox” of supports for educators and parents looking for new ideas. They go beyond typical coping strategies […]
3 Simple Mindful Practices to Start the Day
The morning is an important starting point to the day, especially for kids and teens. It’s easy to think of the morning as a time that can set the stage for success. With a few extra mindful minutes each morning, this can transform into a time that helps children and teenagers regulate their emotions, improve […]
8 Mindful Brain Breaks with a Nature Theme
Everyone needs a break in their day. This is true whether students are learning in the classroom (in person) or taking part in a virtual classroom and learning from a distance. Brain breaks are a healthy strategy to help kids and teens clear their minds, refocus, and start fresh. As a bonus, mindful brain breaks […]
5 FREE Mindfulness Activities
Mindfulness has been a growing trend with kids and young adults, and I have been a huge supporter from the beginning. About ten years ago, I started practicing yoga, which introduced me to the benefits of deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness in my own life. Without a doubt, it has made a huge difference for […]
10 Mindfulness Activities You Can Try Today
All kids benefit from practicing mindfulness. Who wouldn’t love the kids and young adults we work with to become more focused, calm, in control, and self-aware? Mindfulness is a technique that can help teach and strengthen those abilities over time. By practicing mindfulness, people can learn to become more aware of their own thoughts, feeling, […]
10 Best Times to Practice Mindfulness in the Classroom
Mindfulness means being present in the moment with your thoughts and feelings without making judgements. It is being aware of what is happening but not being overwhelmed. Practicing mindfulness on a regular basis can help you feel calmer, happier, and be more in tune with yourself. People of all ages and abilities can practice mindfulness, […]
Teaching Kids How to Relax with Mindfulness
Relaxation is a skill that promotes health and well-being for people of all ages- including kids! Too often in school, we are all rushing to get through our days, complete our work, and fix the problems that come up. It’s easy to forget that kids need time to relax and de-stress, too. There are many […]
5+ Ways to Encourage Gratitude
Gratitude means feeling thankful and appreciative for what you already have. By just taking the time to recognize what we are grateful for, we can become happier, more relaxed, and keep a positive mindset. Encouraging kids and young adults to develop gratitude has been an interesting area of study. Some research highlights that getting in […]
