Copy of A Mindfulness Mini-Unit: 6 steps

This is a great resource!

Some materials adapted from Mindful Schools #HyperDoc created by @kellyihilton

When to use this exercise: The heartbeat exercise is a wonderful grounding activity because it allows your child to focus on the sensations in the body. This exercise is a wonderful activity to do if your child is feeling stressed or anxious. For example, if your child is working on a project for school and getting frustrated or feeling stuck, you can gently redirect them by asking them to STOP what they are doing and take a break.

step 1: Ask your child to stand up and either jump up and down or do jumping jacks for one minute.

step 2: At the end of that minute, have them place their hand on their heart and pay attention to how their heartbeat and their breathing feels.

Tuning into the physical body is a wonderful way to redirect the focus.

With this new burst of energy, your child will feel a new motivation to complete the previous task.

How to create a mindful jar

This activity teaches children about how strong emotions can take hold, and how to find peace when these strong emotions come up.

Here is a video for additional help: Mindful Jar

You will need:

• A clear jar with a tight fitting lid

• Water

• Clear glue or glitter glue

• Dry glitter

Fill the jar almost all of the way with water, then add some of the glue and the dry glitter. Note that the more glue you add, the longer it will take for the water to settle. Make sure the lid is on tight as it will be shaken. Finally, use the following script or take inspiration from it to form your own mini-lesson:

“Imagine that the glitter is like your thoughts when you’re stressed, mad or upset. Notice how it whirls around and makes it really hard to see clearly? That’s why it’s so easy to make silly decisions when you’re upset – because you’re not thinking clearly.”

Click the 3-lined tab in the upper right hand corner of the video to see a playlist of mindful exercises that could be used with young children. These recordings will allow you to participate in the exercise along with your students or children!

Super short and simple breathing exercises

Check out this great channel on youtube called The Mental Health Teacher for more videos!

Check out this free sample of 3 digital and printable Mindfulness Brain Breaks by Whole Hearted Counseling. The digital versions on Google Slides™ includes narration and music in the background, in addition to a feelings check-in option, perfect for distance learning. The pre-recorded narration also allows you to participate, too!

Check out the original resource of 48 Mindfulness Brain Break Exercises here.

Click the pictures below for mindfulness activities that helpful particularly for elementary students.