5 Fun Ways to Get Kids to Take a Deep Breath
Getting kids to take a deep breath can actually be really hard and frustrating. We know that breathing is a great way to steady our emotions, but the concept can be a little confusing for kids. I mean, we are always breathing and our body just does it, so why are you telling me to breathe mother?! They can get very irritated with your constant prompts to take a deep breath especially if you have a kiddo who frequently gets overexcited or overwhelmed. It can start to feel punitive. Here are some of my favorite ways to get kids breathing without the (sometimes) dreaded “take a deep breath” prompt. These strategies are meant to keep it playful, so we don’t incite a meltdown by trying to head-off a meltdown, and they will teach kids how we can be in charge of our breath.
Suck on a Straw, Blow Out a Candle
Using your pointer finger, extend your arm out in front of you, then move your finger toward your mouth as you draw in your breath. Then, exhale by blowing out and moving your finger away from your mouth as if you were blowing out your birthday candle. Repeat 3-5 times.
The Superhero
Make your hands into fists and put them on your hips. As you inhale, puff up your chest dramatically, lean back, and look really tough. Then, on the exhale, bend at the hips and blow out with superhero force! Repeat 3-5 times.
The Drama Queen
This one might be my favorite. As you inhale, bring your hand to your forehead, palm up. Then, as you exhale, crumple to the floor as if you’ve swooned. Be dramatic. Repeat a few times.
Use Smelly Jars or Diffuser
Diffusers can be really great for creating a calming space. Diffuse some lavender or your favorite scent and have your child “smell.” You can create some smelly jars with old play dough containers (poke some holes in the lid) or plastic salt/pepper shakers. Fill them with cinnamon sticks or a cotton ball soaked in vanilla extract or whatever you like!
Huff and Puff and Blow Something Over
Make it a game and see what your breath can knock over around the house. Pretend to be the Big, Bad Wolf and set up some styrofoam cups to blow over.
My best advice is to keep it light and fun. Humor is your friend. If you see your child getting worked up, be silly and use one of these strategies. Do it together (it will help you too). Oxygen to the brain is so important for self-regulation. By teaching kids these methods, you are creating great habits for the rest of their lives. They won’t always have to pretend to faint : ), but breathing will be automatic for them when big emotions come up.
