What is Mindfulness for Kids?
Mindfulness for kids is a great tool for reducing anxiety and increasing a child’s wellbeing and positivity. Far from being only for adults, mindfulness helps develop positive habits that will last a lifetime. Something we practice in the Squoodles’ household, we thought we’d share the benefits and uses of it with you too.
Using Mindfulness for Kids
Mindfulness is about giving one specific thing your full attention, and not thinking about anything else. Easier said than done, focussing on your breathing is a very common mindful practice, choosing to accept and ignore any other thoughts that pop into your head.
Ways of introducing the concept of mindfulness will differ depending upon your child. The popular book Aroha’s Way is a lovely story to read together. It discusses how to recognise emotions and offers a range of ways to manage them. ABCs to Mindfulness Colouring Book can be used to practice mindfulness, as can other colouring in books. Keeping a gratitude journal can help to focus attention on the positive things in life and is perfect for older tweens and teens to use. The Awesome Ends in Me Gratitude Journal also contains information about identifying strengths and mindset, managing emotions and mindful meditations and breathing. For younger children, try the Yes I Am, I Can, I Will Well Being Journal, which is aimed at children from 8 years up.
Benefits of Mindfulness for Kids
Mindfulness can provide children with so many positive benefits, including:
- Able to focus and pay attention for longer lengths of time
- Developing increased patience and compassion
- Better conflict resolution skills
- Improved social interactions
- Higher academic performance
- Less stress, anxiety and depression
- Improved mood and wellbeing
- Better sleep
- Higher self esteem
Even more so, a child who regularly practices mindfulness lays a positive foundation for the rest of their lives. They’ll be able to manage the stressful and challenging situations they’ll face in the future when as parents, we’re not there to hold their hands anymore.
We are thrilled to stock some fabulous mindfulness and wellbeing books for kids, and would strongly encourage you to take a look. Remember that we’re always happy to help with choosing books for your child – just ask!
