Mindfulness

Mindful Parenting Resource Ideas

Mindfulness is an amazing tool that can increase self awareness, focus, and self regulation as it decreases stress in everyday life. We are excited to practice these skills with our students at Iron Horse Elementary.  Research on mindfulness by Mindful Schools and Mindful Life. https://www.mindfulschools.org/about-mindfulness/research/  and https://mindfullifetoday.com/press/.

First of all, what is mindfulness?  Mindfulness is the quality of paying attention in an open, balanced and curious way.  

Ideas for home

  • Modeling Mindfulness for your children at home. Two great books to read are Mindful Parenting by Kristen Race, owner of Mindful Life, or 10 Mindful Minutes by Goldie Hawn.
  • Practice breathing techniques at home on a regular basis. Here is a great activity called belly breathing: http://www.pbs.org/parents/adventures-in-learning/2015/09/calming-breathing-exercise-for-kids/
  • Go to the local library and ask the librarian for some picture books on the topic. Some of our favorites are:
    • Mindful Monkey, Happy Panda by Lauren Alderfer
    • Anh’s Anger by Gail Silver
    • Master of Mindfulness by Laurie Grossman & Mr. Musumeci’s 5th Grade Class

  • Activities
  • Unplug the electronics on a regular basis! Use Screenagers Tech Talk Tuesday blog for ideas on topics to discuss with the family around the digital world.
  • Go for a hike and try to find as many shades of green, blues, yellow, etc.
  • Play some music and listen to the lyrics together, ask “what is the song about?”
  • End the day by identifying three good things from the day (threegoodthingsaday.com)
  • Download a mindful APP for your home device. A few suggestions are Mind Yeti, Stop Breathe and Think Kids, or Dreamy Kid
  • Practice mindful movement activities, such as yoga, taking a mindful walk, signing up for karate lessons

There is so much out there on the topic, if you are interested to learn more please reach out to Erin O’Hara or Rachel Perkins for more resources.

“We’re so busy watching out for what’s just ahead of us that we don’t take time to enjoy where we are.” ― Bill Watterson