Mindful Play

Mindfulness can be great for those of any age, and where our youngsters are concerned, there are toys to help fit into even the busiest of routines.

As parents, we are increasingly recognising the importance of mental health for our children. One way to nurture emotional wellbeing is by introducing mindfulness practices early on.

Mindfulness toys are one tool that can help children learn to manage their emotions, stay focused and be present in the moment – skills that are valuable not only at home but also in school and beyond.

What is mindfulness?

Bringing attention to the present moment, becoming more aware of our thoughts, feelings and surroundings. For adults, this often means taking time to reflect or meditate, but for children, it tends to be most effective when it’s integrated into play.

By using mindfulness toys, kids can learn these valuable skills in a fun and appealing way to help them develop the ability to calm themselves, manage their emotions and focus their attention on the here and now.

Benefits

Research shows that mindfulness activities support self-regulation, patience and independence – key qualities for emotional intelligence.

Toys

Fidget Toys

Providing tactile stimulation that can help children focus and calm themselves when feeling overwhelmed. Some are designed with different textures, buttons or sliders to keep little hands busy while promoting concentration.

Breathing Buddies

Soft toys designed to help children practise breathing exercises. Some have a gentle rise and fall mechanism to show how to take slow, deep breaths, which can help manage stress and emotions.

Sensory Balls and Stress Balls

Simple, yet effective tools that provide calming, repetitive motion for those who need help with emotional regulation. Squishing or rolling these balls can help release pent-up energy and focus thoughts.

Apps

While not a physical toy, they can be a fun addition to your child’s mindfulness toolkit. With guided meditations, calming visuals and breathing exercises, a great way for children to practise mindfulness during quiet moments.

Creating a mindful routine

It doesn’t need to be difficult or time-consuming. Start with simple, calming activities such as breathing exercises, stretching or quiet play with a mindfulness toy. Aim for just a few minutes each day – consistency is key. Over time, children will begin to associate these practices with relaxation and emotional balance.

As they grow, these habits will support their emotional intelligence, helping them handle challenges with a calm and focused mindset.