Introducing Mindfulness in the Early Years Classroom

Imagine a classroom where children start their day with calm breaths, express their feelings with clarity, and approach challenges with focus and resilience. Mindfulness—the practice of being fully present in the moment—can help make this vision a reality.

Research from The Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry reveals that mindfulness activities improve attention, reduce stress, and support emotional regulation in children. In early childhood classrooms, mindfulness creates a nurturing environment where young learners thrive both socially and academically.

Here’s how educators can incorporate simple, effective mindfulness practices into their daily routines.

1. Start with Mindful Breathing

Activity: Introduce a short breathing exercise to begin the day or after transitions.

• Ask students to imagine they’re blowing up a balloon: inhale deeply through the nose and exhale slowly through the mouth.

• Use a feather or a pinwheel to make breathing exercises more engaging.

  
  

Why It Works: Breathing exercises calm the mind and body, helping children feel centered and ready to learn.

2. Create a Quiet Corner

Activity: Set up a “Calm Corner” with sensory toys, soft cushions, and visuals like glitter jars or affirmation cards. Encourage children to visit this space when they need a moment to reset.

Extension: Include tools like The Wonder Whale Affirmation Cards with messages like, “I can take deep breaths to feel calm,” to guide mindfulness during quiet time.

Why It Works: A designated space teaches children how to self-regulate emotions and find calm independently.

3. Practice Mindful Observations

Activity: Take children outside for a “Listening Walk.” Ask them to focus on the sounds they hear—birds chirping, leaves rustling, or cars passing by.

In-Class Variation: Bring objects like leaves, shells, or stones for a “Mindful Observation” activity. Ask students to describe the texture, color, and shape.

Why It Works: Observational activities heighten children’s awareness and appreciation for their surroundings.

4. Use Storytime to Teach Mindfulness

Activity: Choose books with mindfulness themes, such as:

• I Am Peace by Susan Verde.

• Mindful Monkey, Happy Panda by Lauren Alderfer.

  
  

After reading, guide a short discussion about how the characters used mindfulness to solve problems or handle emotions.

Why It Works: Stories make abstract concepts relatable and memorable for young learners.

5. Incorporate Gratitude Practices

Activity: End the day with a “Gratitude Circle,” where each child shares one thing they’re thankful for. For example, “I’m grateful for my friend sharing their crayons with me.”

Extension: Create a “Gratitude Tree” where students can add leaves with drawings or notes of gratitude throughout the week.

Why It Works: Gratitude fosters positivity, empathy, and a deeper connection to others.

6. Teach Mindful Movement

Activity: Incorporate short stretches or yoga poses, such as “tree pose” or “butterfly pose,” into the day. Encourage students to focus on their breathing and how their body feels during the movement.

Why It Works: Mindful movement helps children release energy, stay present, and build body awareness.

7. Use Guided Imagery for Relaxation

Activity: Lead a short guided imagery session during rest time. For example, say “Close your eyes and imagine you’re floating on a fluffy cloud. It’s soft and light, and it’s carrying you to your favourite place.”

Why It Works: Guided imagery promotes relaxation and strengthens imagination.

8. Reflect Through Art

Activity: Ask children to draw or paint their feelings after a mindfulness session. For example, “Draw what calm looks like to you.”

Extension: Combine this with journaling for older children, where they can write or doodle about their experiences.

Why It Works: Art provides a non-verbal outlet for emotions, helping children process and express their feelings.

9. Celebrate Small Wins

Activity: Recognize moments when students practice mindfulness, such as calming themselves after frustration or helping a friend during playtime. Celebrate with verbal praise or small tokens, like stickers or certificates.

Why It Works: Acknowledging effort motivates children to continue practising mindfulness.

Building a Mindful Classroom

Mindfulness in early years classrooms doesn’t require complicated tools or long sessions. Simple practices like breathing exercises, gratitude circles, and mindful movement can make a profound difference in children’s ability to focus, self-regulate, and connect with others.

By fostering mindfulness early, educators equip young learners with the tools they need to navigate their emotions and thrive in a busy world. Start small, stay consistent, and watch your classroom transform into a calm, connected, and joyful space.