Exciting news for parents of neurodivergent kids! Scientists have discovered seven amazing mindfulness activities that can help children feel calmer, more focused, and happier. Did you know that these fun and easy practices can be like superpowers for the brain? By doing things like breathing exercises and guided imagery, kids can become more patient and better at handling big feelings. Get ready to explore these game-changing activities that are making a real difference in the lives of neurodivergent children everywhere!
Table of Contents
1. Mindful Breathing
Let’s kick things off with mindful breathing. It’s a simple yet powerful exercise that can help your kid stay grounded in the present moment. Here’s how it works: have your kid sit comfortably, close their eyes, and take slow, deep breaths. Please encourage them to focus on the sensation of the air entering and leaving their body.
What’s great about this activity is that it can be done anywhere, anytime. Whether using their Goally learning tablet or waiting for the school bus, a few minutes of mindful breathing can help them regain their calm and focus.
2. Yoga for Kids
Yoga is more than just a physical exercise. It’s a mindfulness activity that promotes mental tranquility. You can find kid-friendly yoga routines online or join a local class. The goal isn’t to perfect the poses but to enjoy the process and stay present.
Here’s a tip: make yoga a regular part of your kid’s routine. You can even use Goally to set reminders for their yoga sessions. Over time, you’ll notice improvements in their physical strength, flexibility, and mental calmness.
3. Mindful Eating
Transform mealtime into a mindfulness activity with mindful eating. Encourage your kid to eat slowly and savor each bite. Ask them to describe their food’s taste, texture, and smell. This practice enhances their sensory awareness and fosters a healthier relationship with food.
Remember, the key to mindful eating is to focus on the experience, not the outcome. So, don’t worry if your kid doesn’t get it immediately. With practice, they’ll enjoy their meals more and become more aware of their eating habits.
4. Nature Walks
Nothing beats the great outdoors for mindfulness activities. A simple nature walk can do wonders for your kid’s mental health. Please encourage them to observe the colors, sounds, and smells around them. This activity boosts their appreciation for nature and helps them stay grounded in the present moment.
So, grab a pair of comfortable shoes and walk with your kid. Any green space will do, whether it’s a nearby park or your backyard. The goal is to engage their senses and help them connect with nature.
5. Mindful Coloring
Coloring isn’t just a fun pastime; it’s also a great mindfulness activity. Give your kid a coloring book and crayons, and let their creativity flow. As they focus on filling the pages with color, they’ll practice mindfulness without realizing it!
Read more: 5 Emotion Regulation Strategies for Kids
Plus, coloring can be a great stress reliever. So, the next time your kid feels overwhelmed, hand them a coloring book. You’ll be surprised at how quickly they calm down and regain their focus.
6. Guided Imagery
Guided imagery is a powerful tool for promoting relaxation and focus. Play a kid-friendly guided imagery audio and let your kid follow along. They’ll learn to visualize peaceful scenes, which can help reduce anxiety and improve focus.
Best of all, guided imagery can be done at any time of the day. This mindfulness activity can be a great addition to their routine, whether it’s before bedtime to help them relax or during a break from their Goally learning tablet.
7. Gratitude Journaling
Lastly, consider introducing your kid to gratitude journaling. Each day, have them write down three things they’re grateful for. This practice cultivates a positive mindset and helps them stay present and appreciative of the good in their lives.
Keeping a gratitude journal can be a fun and rewarding experience for your kid. You can even make it a family activity and share your entries with each other. It’s a great way to end the day on a positive note and foster a sense of gratitude in your family.
Goally | Kid’s Tablet for Building Emotional Regulation Skills
Is your child struggling with understanding and managing their emotions? Goally teaches emotional regulation skills in a fun and interactive way!
The Mood Tuner app encourages kids to look inwards and identify their feelings, helping them understand what’s going on inside. Once they’ve recognized their emotions, they can choose from a variety of exercises designed to help them self-regulate and find their balance.
Mindfulness activities can be a powerful tool for kids with thinking and learning differences. They promote focus, patience, and emotional resilience, essential skills for navigating life’s ups and downs. So, why not give these activities a try? With some patience and practice, your kid might discover a new favorite pastime—and you’ll love seeing the positive changes in their behavior and mindset. Here’s to a more mindful and peaceful journey ahead!
Emily is a seasoned blog writer for Goally, leveraging her extensive background in child psychology and special education to provide valuable insights and resources for parents. Her commitment to understanding and addressing the unique needs of these children, combined with her expertise in educational strategies, makes her a credible and empathetic voice for families.
