3 Simple Mindful Breathing Techniques For Kids
Hey there!
Over the years of working with parents, mental health professionals and people with experience of neurodivergent needs, i've learnt quite a few breathing techniques that are super simple, but effective. I want to share them with you so you can start teaching your kids some super snappy ways to self regulate.
Smell the flowers, blow the candles
I really love this one because it's a great visual representation of how to start deep breathing. So rather than just stating 'take a deep breath!!!', this analogy seems a lot more helpful for younger children.
The box method
Box method breathing seems to work for a lot of children and adults, because of the rememberable square shape and number. It can also be called the 4-4-4-4 method.
So the idea is you inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4 and repeat.
Box breathing can help calm those fast, fluttery breaths we get when we're anxious. It gently slows everything down, telling our brain and body that we're safe and it's okay to relax.
↓ Try this free digital download to start practicing! ↓
Belly/balloon breathing
Don't forget the importance of directing your breath into your stomach as you breathe! It's a great visual representation to tell children as they inhale, blow out their stomach as big as a balloon. Then slowly deflate the balloon as they exhale.
Try this second free printable to help:
I hope you found these useful - do let me know if you have any more breathing suggestions below!
Kim x
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