(That they’ll actually want to do!)
Let’s face it — just saying “take a deep breath” doesn’t always land with kids. Especially when they’re mid-meltdown, bouncing off the walls, or just not in the mood.
But when you turn breathwork into a game, a visual, or a story — that’s when the magic happens.
Here are three of my favorite ways to help children notice and connect to their breath — gently, playfully, and with just the right amount of imagination.
🫧 1. Bubble Breath
This one is a hit with toddlers, preschoolers, even big kids.
How to do it:
Pretend you’re holding a bubble wand. Take a deep breath in through your nose, then exhale slowly through your mouth like you’re blowing the biggest, gentlest bubble.
You can even use real bubble wands if you’re outside!
What it teaches:
- Slowing down the exhale
- Controlling breath with play
- Focusing on the moment
🧠 Great for transitions, calming nerves, or just resetting.
🐉 2. Dragon Breath
Perfect for letting out some big feelings — or just adding a little drama.
How to do it:
Sit or stand tall. Take a deep breath in through your nose, then stick out your tongue and ROAR it out like a fiery dragon (imagine the fire coming from your belly!).
Add hand movements or flapping wings for extra fun.
What it teaches:
- Emotional release
- Breath awareness through movement
- That it’s okay to feel big — and then let it go
🔥 Pro tip: Let kids choose their dragon color and “breathe out” that color’s energy!
🌈 3. Color Breathing
This one brings in a little mindfulness and imagination — especially great for winding down.
How to do it:
Invite your child to close their eyes and imagine their favorite calming color. Breathe in that color through the nose (soft, slow), and breathe out a color that matches how they’re feeling — like red for anger or grey for tiredness.
You can guide it gently:
“Breathe in peaceful blue… and breathe out the fuzzy grey of your day.”
What it teaches:
- Visualization
- Self-regulation
- Naming and noticing emotions
🖍️ Works beautifully during rest time or before bed.
💛 Keep It Light
The key? Make it playful. Keep it short.
And don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfect — consistency beats perfection every time.
If they giggle through the first few breaths, that’s still a win. Because they’re practicing noticing their body. And that’s what mindfulness is all about.
Have a favorite breathing trick you use with your little ones? I’d love to hear it!
Tag me or send a message — I’m always collecting fresh ideas to try in my own home and classes. 💬
