Perhaps it’s hard to believe this, but toddlers are naturally mindful. Their pretty little minds live for the moment and worry less about their future – unless we’re the talking piles of nerving homework. It, however, takes a well conscious adult to channel this naturally acquired ability and energy before their heads fill up. As a parent or a grown-up, you can be more mindful with toddlers in various ways. Here are the best ways to achieve that.
1. Practice Mindful Breathing with Them
Mindful breathing helps induce a calmness that their little selves need at a tender age. And you can guide them through mindful meditations. Still, you can get wittier and use what they love the most – superheroes! Perhaps, you could use the Superman meditation technique, making them more aware of what they feel, hear, and smell at the moment. If possible, let them speak it loud, take deep breaths and let their swirling minds calm down.
2. Give Them Some Time with Nature
Kids love nature, and this sensation naturally ingrains in their brains when they become conscious of their surroundings. And since nature is a natural tranquilizer, it helps them focus more on the present as they smell the flowers, chase butterflies, and savor the calming aura it brings. It helps them connect with their senses, and they’re twice likely to focus on what matters in the present.
3. Authenticate Their Emotions
Let your toddler know that having a bad day is okay and that the emotions are acceptable. Let them understand that being under the weather is a way of life, so they don’t overreact. But of course, don’t forget to let them enjoy the good ones since they help them cool down when necessary. Teach them to act with kindness and empathy, but ensure you make it clear how to go about that.
4. Use the Mind Jar Technique
Blizzards and storms calm down at some point, as do disturbed mind jars. A snow globe, in this case, can work the trick by demonstrating how the mind works. Shake it a bit and let the snow slowly calm down. And as this makeshift storm calms down, let them focus and allow their minds to do the same. This technique is the best way to be mindful with toddlers, especially if they feel disoriented. And as such, it helps pretty significantly.
5. Make Them Grateful
Being grateful for everything is a viable strategy to infuse mindfulness in toddlers. It enables them to appreciate what they have and worry less about having them in the future. Maybe before taking a bite out of the dinner plate, ask them about the one thing they’re grateful for and pay attention to what they say. Reiterate the importance of being thankful for their abundance and less about their toys and physical possessions; it’ll infuse natural mindfulness.
While toddlers are naturally mindful, time may be a significant factor in whether they remain attuned or change. But having close supervision from an adult guarantees continuity. Hopefully, these few tips will help you be more mindful with your toddlers.