In the busy world we live in where everything is online it can be hard for grown-ups to find some peace and quiet. Think about how kids with their wild ideas and endless energy probably feel. Teaching kids to meditate can really help them deal with the busy world around them. It can improve their attention and make them feel better emotionally and physically. This is a guide made for parents who want to start this calm adventure with their kids.
Getting to know the advantages
Before we get into the steps we need to take it is important to know how meditation can help kids. Studies show that meditation might lower stress levels help you focus better make you more aware of yourself and strengthen your ability to handle emotions. If you start using these practices now your child will have some helpful tools for the future.
Begin with something easy and brief.
To get kids into meditation you should keep things really simple at first. Rather than jumping right into a long session try starting with just a couple of minutes. Slowly make the time longer as your child gets used to doing it.
Start with some easy breathing exercises to get going. Tell your child to shut their eyes and breathe in deeply. They should pause for a second and then let the air out slowly. Do this a couple more times and ask them to pay attention to how it feels to breathe. Breathing exercises help you get started and make meditation seem easier.
Make a special area just for this purpose.
Creating a specific spot for meditation can make kids view it as something unique and important. It doesn't need to be complicated. A plain corner with a soft mat a cushion or maybe a chair is just right. You could add some soothing things they like such as a beloved toy or a little plant to make the area feel warm and special.
Turn it into something enjoyable.
To keep a kid engaged you should add some fun stuff to meditation. Using guided imagery can really capture the interest of young kids. For example you could tell them to picture themselves as a cloud drifting in the air or a star shining in the night. These images spark their creativity and make it easier for them to unwind.
Also using kids' books that focus on mindfulness or meditation can give you some ideas and a way to organize things. Books aimed at kids usually have stories and activities that they can connect with which makes meditation feel easier for them.
Promote being present in everyday tasks.
Meditation is not just about sitting quietly. It might involve paying more attention to what you do each day. Help your child pay attention to one thing at a time such as when they are walking eating or brushing their teeth. Pay attention to what you feel like the way your feet touch the grass or how your food tastes or the noise of the brush on your teeth. These activities help you become more aware which is really important for meditation.
Make smart choices with technology.
Some people think technology just gets in the way but there are apps made to help kids with meditation and being mindful. There are apps such as "Stop Breathe & Think Kids" "Smiling Mind" and "Breathe Think Do with Sesame" that are designed for kids. They provide guided meditations and mindfulness activities that help make learning about meditation more interesting.
Show others how to act.
Kids pick up a lot by watching what their parents do. If you want your child to get used to meditation you should let them watch you do it as well. This way they can see how to act and it also gives them a chance to meditate together which helps bring the family closer.
Take your time and be open to changes.
Keep in mind that kids might not warm up to meditation right away and that's totally fine. Every child is different and some might take longer to get comfortable with the activity. Give them time and let them figure out what meditation is all about for themselves.
When you teach your kids about meditation you are giving them a chance to be more aware and feel better throughout their lives. If you keep these ideas in your thoughts your experience can be fun and fulfilling.
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