When I feel a strong emotion such as anger it can feel like a rock in my mind. My mind will try to let it go, but the harder I try, the more it seems that the angry thoughts are "rock" solid. The other day I came across this technique and have tried it with some...
For some children, the concept of taking a deep breath is difficult to understand. When I am working with some kids, especially kids with an autism spectrum disorder, they respond especially well to the use of a visual aid in order to fully understand new...
The balloon breath is a fun way to describe a diaphragmatic breath. I like to show kids a picture of the diaphragm and explain that it is the long, flat muscle beneath the lungs and above the belly button that is responsible for pushing the air out of the lungs during...
Take off into relaxation today! Explain to your child that you are going to practice a deep breath like a rocket. While he inhales, taking air into his lungs, you will sound the count down until take off when he exhales, letting the air out of his lungs. Invite your...
Starting back to school can produce waves of stress in children's bodies and minds. Showing them how to ride the stress wave without jumping into reactivity or impulsive actions based on strong feelings, is a golden skill that will support children throughout their...
Here's a Spider-Man Script for you to try out with your children or students to practice mindfulness and increase focus. You can also incorporate this into your childs play therapy. Materials Needed: Bell, Flower, Small Food Item (such as a berry, piece of cereal, or...
Relaxation practice can have your kiddos swimming in the relaxation pond. I use this little ducky many ways in my groups at school. 1. Group Management Group Norms: The ducky swims in relaxation. When the group is quiet and focused, the ducky swims. So, if the...
Scratch and sniff stickers are a BIG hit in my relaxation classes. They are colorful, come in a variety of "smells," and are fun to stick as reminders to slow down and take a deep breath. We also use them for mindfulness practice. The stickers are a great tool to...
When kids’ energy is operating on high, I have been showing them how to hit the “pause button.” I also am teaching them that “hitting the pause button” is the first step in relaxation. First we pause, then we practice a relaxation skill. Another way to use the "pause...
Children’s intuition and relaxation are directly correlated. When one is increased, the other is also increased. When we are relaxed and calm and feeling good, our intuition is naturally at it’s best. We are able to connect to our inner knowing and problem-solving...
