Recently, I shared some key messages and activities inspired by the Pixar movie Inside Out! Here are some more activities and messages I gleaned from the movie. I have the figurines promptly displayed in my school psych office and let me tell you... they are VERY...
When energy is scattered, out of control, and "all over the place," it is very hard for kids to calm down. Here are some grounding techniques that can help you and your child re-center, re-focus, and calm the body for focused attention, becoming present and...
I recently went to see the recent Pixar movie, Inside Out, with my family. We really enjoyed it. While some of the science featured has been controversial, I took away key messages that inspired the creation of these relaxation and emotional regulation activities....
Here's a deep breath with a visual aid built right within it! The heart breath gets kids to focus within their heart center while breathing in and out. Heart Breath First, put your hands on your heart so that you can feel it beating as you breathe in and out. You can...
Helping kids to navigate the downs of life, the "mud" of life, is so very important. How we respond, or react, to difficulties is a critical piece to creating a life of wellbeing and emotional regulation. Last week I went with my family to see the new Pixar movie,...
Want to bring mindfulness into your life with kids? My suggestion would be to try it out yourself first, really become familiar with it, establish your own practice, THEN share it with the kids in your life. Dr. Amy Salesman, in her book Still Quite Place, says,...
I often have kids in my office that are feeling sad, worried, or angry related to something that others have said or done. Sometimes there's a bully on the playground. Maybe they've had an argument with a parent or sibling. Or possibly a teacher has given critical...
During Spring, I get excited about gardening, especially planting flowers and giving the teak patio furniture a new shade every spring. As you venture out into the soil this year, I invite you to share with your child how thinking is a lot like gardening. The thought...
Peacock breath helps kids to slow down their breathing and return to calm and center. I use peacock feathers as a visual aid while teaching this deep breath. You can order peacock feathers very inexpensively off of amazon, (simply click the image below and it will...
Here are some ideas to consider and possibly discuss before you begin using this relaxation script with your child: Your child is in charge of her feelings. Help her to understand that she is in charge of her anger. She is at choice. Empower her to knowt that there...
