As a parent, you’ve likely faced the challenge of calming an upset child. For parents of neurodivergent kids, this task can feel like climbing a mountain. However, there’s a secret weapon at your disposal – breathing exercises for kids. These exercises aren’t just for yoga class. They can be used anywhere, anytime your child needs a moment of calm. Let’s explore five simple yet powerful breathing exercises that can transform your child’s emotional landscape.
Table of Contents
1. Belly Breathing
First, let’s begin with belly breathing, a fundamental exercise encouraging full oxygen exchange. It’s like a mini vacation for both body and mind. Please have your child lie down and place a toy on their belly to do this. Instruct them to breathe in slowly through their nose, making the toy rise, and then exhale slowly, making the toy fall.
This exercise is handy for kids with thinking and learning differences, as it helps to center their focus. It’s like a reset button for their mind, helping them to tune out distractions and focus on the here and now. It’s one of the breathing exercises for kids that Goally often recommends for its simplicity and effectiveness.
2. Starfish Breathing
Next up is starfish breathing, a tactile and visual method that makes deep breathing more engaging for kids. Please have your child spread their fingers wide like a starfish. Starting at the thumb, they trace up with the other hand’s index finger while inhaling and trace down while exhaling. Repeat this for each finger.
Above all, this exercise helps to slow down their breathing and heart rate, promoting a sense of calm. It’s like a soothing lullaby for their nervous system, helping them to feel more grounded and relaxed. It’s another one of the breathing exercises for kids that Goally suggests, especially for those who benefit from visual and tactile cues.
3. Balloon Breathing
Thirdly, balloon breathing is a fun and imaginative exercise that can help kids. Please have your child stand with their feet shoulder-width apart and ask them to imagine they’re holding a balloon. As they breathe in, they raise their arms, filling the balloon. As they exhale, they lower their arms, releasing the air.
This exercise helps with breath control and enhances body awareness. It’s like a playful game that also serves a serious purpose – helping your child feel more in control of their body and emotions. It’s a favorite among the breathing exercises for kids that Goally recommends, thanks to its fun and interactive nature.
Read more: 5 Emotional Regulation Activities for Kids
4. Bunny Breathing
On the other hand, bunny breathing is a quick and easy exercise that can be done in any situation. It involves three quick sniffs through the nose, and one long exhale through the mouth, just like a bunny. This exercise can be beneficial for neurodivergent kids who are feeling anxious or overwhelmed, as it provides a quick reset for their nervous system.
Think of it as a quick pick-me-up for your child’s mood, helping them to feel more centered and calm. It’s one of the most straightforward breathing exercises for kids, and it’s one that Goally often suggests for its quick and easy implementation.
5. Lion’s Breath
Lastly, the lion’s breath is a powerful exercise that encourages vocalization and the release of tension. Have your child kneel and then “roar” out their breath, sticking out their tongue. This exercise can be a fun and effective way for kids to release stress and anxiety.
It’s like a mini roar of triumph over their stress and worries, helping them to feel more empowered and relaxed. It’s one of the more energetic breathing exercises for kids, and it’s one that Goally recommends for its combination of fun and stress relief.
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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 20+ activities designed to help them self-regulate and find their balance.
In conclusion, breathing exercises for kids are a simple, cost-free, and effective tool to help manage emotions and foster focus. These exercises can be a game-changer for parents of neurodivergent kids, offering a practical way to help their child navigate their unique challenges. So why not give them a try? You might find that these exercises bring a breath of fresh air to your parenting toolkit.
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