The Magic Ball: A Breathing Game For Kids

Teaching mindfulness to kids equips them with valuable tools to build self-esteem, manage stress, and approach challenges skillfully. Whether at school or at home, making mindfulness lessons engaging and fun through play, movement, visualization, and games enhances their effectiveness.

One of my favorite activities for teaching basic breath awareness is a simple game called The Magic Ball.

Here is how to introduce the game to kids:

1. Begin by Demonstrating:

   • Place your hand on your belly and take a somewhat exaggerated and loud breath, inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. Ask your children if they can guess what you are doing.

   • Once they identify that you are breathing, congratulate them and explain that you will teach them how to open up their breath, helping their bodies and minds to function at their best.

2. Introduce The Magic Ball Game:

   • Let them know that you are inviting them to play a game called The Magic Ball.

3. Explain the Rules:

   • Touch all ten fingers and palms together.

   • On the in-breath: Expand your hands outward while keeping your fingers touching to create your very own expanding breath ball.

   • On the out-breath: Bring all ten fingers and palms back together.

   That’s all there is to it!

4. Enhance the Game:

   • You can also play in pairs, facing each other. For a more dynamic activity, have the kids stretch their arms wide as if giving the whole world a hug on the inhale, and then wrap their arms around their own shoulders to give themselves a hug on the out-breath.

     
     

But the real fun begins when you encourage kids to let their creativity shine by inventing their own games and activities. By turning mindfulness into fun games, you help children manage stress and stay present while fostering creativity. Encouraging their involvement and exploration of these practices not only makes mindfulness engaging but also builds a strong foundation for emotional well-being. Embrace these playful opportunities to support their journey toward a more mindful and balanced life.