6 Mindfulness Activities To Keep Kids Calm During Long Car Rides

Go Back By Tarishi Shrivastava

Introduction

[{ "selector": "#anim1", "keyframes": { "opacity": [0, 1] }, "delay": 0, "duration": 600, "easing": "cubic-bezier(0.4, 0.4, 0.0, 1)", "fill": "both" }] Long car rides can be challenging for kids. Kids can easily get restless, here are 6 mindful ways to keep kids calm:

Breathing Exercises

[{ "selector": "#anim2", "keyframes": { "opacity": [0, 1] }, "delay": 0, "duration": 600, "easing": "cubic-bezier(0.4, 0.4, 0.0, 1)", "fill": "both" }] Ask kids to take slow, deep breaths, focusing on the sensation of air moving in and out of the body.

Sensory Awareness

[{ "selector": "#anim3", "keyframes": { "opacity": [0, 1] }, "delay": 0, "duration": 600, "easing": "cubic-bezier(0.4, 0.4, 0.0, 1)", "fill": "both" }] Ask kids to describe what they see, hear, feel, and smell in the car, promoting heightened sensory perception.

Guided Imagery

[{ "selector": "#anim4", "keyframes": { "opacity": [0, 1] }, "delay": 0, "duration": 600, "easing": "cubic-bezier(0.4, 0.4, 0.0, 1)", "fill": "both" }] Lead kids on a visualization exercise, guiding them to imagine a peaceful, calming scene in the minds.

Gratitude Practice

[{ "selector": "#anim5", "keyframes": { "opacity": [0, 1] }, "delay": 0, "duration": 600, "easing": "cubic-bezier(0.4, 0.4, 0.0, 1)", "fill": "both" }] Have kids share things they are grateful for, cultivating a positive and appreciative mindset.

Body Scans

[{ "selector": "#anim6", "keyframes": { "opacity": [0, 1] }, "delay": 0, "duration": 600, "easing": "cubic-bezier(0.4, 0.4, 0.0, 1)", "fill": "both" }] Direct children to mentally scan the body, noticing any tension or discomfort and consciously relaxing those areas.

Mindful Movement

[{ "selector": "#anim7", "keyframes": { "opacity": [0, 1] }, "delay": 0, "duration": 600, "easing": "cubic-bezier(0.4, 0.4, 0.0, 1)", "fill": "both" }] Suggest simple stretches or gentle movements that can be done safely within the confines of the car.