How to Nurture Mindfulness:

1. Model: Lead by example. Embrace mindfulness and cultivate self-awareness.
2. Boredom: Allow them the space to discover their inner creativity.
3. Share: When you find yourself in the present moment, include them.
4. Start Small: Keep it simple and intentional.
5. Create a Habit: Consistency is key.
6. Be Patient: Good things take time.

Mindful Activities to Try:

Mindful Breathing:

1. Flower and Bubble Breathing: Visualize smelling a flower, inhaling slowly through the nose, exhale through the mouth, blowing bubbles.
2. Belly Breathing: Inhale, observing the stomach expand, exhale as it deflates.
3. Bunny Breathing: Quick “sniffs” in through the nose, exhale in one long, smooth breath.

Senses:

1. Mindful Eating: Turn meals into a sensory experience.
2. “54321”: Name objects they see, touch, hear, smell, and taste.

Nature Walk:

1. Observe nature’s pace, listen, touch, collect, and embrace changes.

Movement:

1. Body Scan: Sync mind and body by mentally scanning from head to toes.
2. Yoga: Link movement with breath for fun stress coping.

Becoming Still:

1. Visualization: Guide them to picture something, someone, or someplace.
2. Reflection: Ask reflective questions, focusing on feelings, not just thoughts.
3. Stillness: Turn sitting still into a game, exploring thoughts and sensations.