Mindful Breathing Resources

My First Grade students and I begin our school day by greeting each other, sharing life news, and an emotional check-in. Then we consciously breathe together using a variety of mindful breathing techniques to center, concentrate and release tension. Here are some resources I use and recommend that you may find helpful whether you are a teacher or caregiver.

#1 Mindful Breathing by ClassDojo

This short minute video walks students through a basic calming mindful breathing sequence. It is one of my class’ favorites! The visuals help young students focus on their breathing, relax and visualize the release of tension.

#2 Be the Pond by Cosmic Kids Yoga

This guided mindful meditation helps students explore breathing as a way to calm and regulate emotions. It uses the simple, kid-friendly metaphor of fish in a pond to our emotions and the calm accessible underneath them.

#3 Breathe Like a Bear: 30 Mindful Moments for Kids to Feel Calm and Focused Anytime, Anywhere by Kira Willey

This book offers 30 simple, short breathing practices and movements designed to help kids learn to manage their bodies, breath, and emotions. It is a nice resource with cute illustrations to be able to grab and read with kids after transitions like returning to the classroom after recess or after a break.

#4 Yoga Pretzels: 50 Fun Activities for Kids & Grownups by Tara Guber

I’ve used Yoga Pretzel cards for years with my students after transitions, when it’s time to take a movement break, and during our designated Mindfulness time. Along with kid-friendly yoga poses, this card deck has a section of breathing exercises and techniques for calming down, waking up, focusing and relaxing.

#5 Meditation Cards for Kids by Imagine

This card deck contains 26 colorful, fantastically illustrated cards with mindfulness activities. They walk kids through guided meditations and visualizations of safe, inspiring spaces, gentle adventures and relaxing gardens. Recommended for younger students under age 8. Older students may giggle at the very California, bordering on too-New Age language.