Somatic Techniques for Kids
Studies show that directly teaching children mindfulness can reduce the negative effects of childhood stress and increase children’s ability to independently regulate their thoughts and behavior- becoming more resilient in tough times. Mindfulness is to be consciously awake and aware. Therefore, when kids learn to be mindful, they become more aware of the world around them, they notice their thoughts, feelings, behaviors more; and the effect they have on others and others on them.
Go! Action Word Movement Game Allow kids to connect mental imagery, feeling and movement to allows for a mindset shift, use of creative thinking and moving, and growth in self awareness. Call out words or have kids pick their own words. Music sets the tone: arch, bend, bounce, bow, burst, cheer, carry, catch, clap, desire, dodge, expand, explode, fly, float, gather, give, leap, march, object, offer, push, pull, protest, receive, rise, soar, shine, smooth, turn, twist, wish.
I am Affirmation Hands Mantra. Show kids to touch thumb to pinky, thumb to ring finger, thumb to middle finger, thumb to index finger. Repeat the mantra (this one or substitute other words): I am brave, I am peaceful, I am unique, I am strong
Peace Be Begin with hands in prayer (palms together at your heart): touch your forehead (Third Eye), say, “Peace in my mind.” (children repeat), next, at your lips, say, “Peace when I speak.” (children repeat it), next, at your heart, say, “Peace in my heart.” (children repeat it).
Kids’ Breath Ask kids to take a breath in through their nose and breath out. On their next breath in ask them to gently close their eye and just focus on their breathing instead of any distractions. Say ‘as you breathe, breathe in fresh energy, love, joy and peace. With every breath you take, feel your breath deepening into your body, feel it lifting up your chest, and spreading from the crown of your head to bottoms of your feet. Fresh energy, love, joy and peace. As you breathe out, imagine any negative feelings — sadness, anger, let down, disappointment — exhaling through your nose, leaving your body and disappearing. One more deep breath in, now exhale through your mouth this time- let it go.