The activities below are grouped by age (4–7 and 8–11) and are designed to be used at home, outdoors, in schools, or community settings to help children pause and take notice.
I can feel calm and happy when I stop, look around, and notice the world and people near me.
Children (Ages 8–11)
More about Children (Ages 8–11)Parent–Child Mindfulness Boosters
Bedtime Reflection Ritual
At the end of each day, ask: What made you smile? What was tricky? What are you proud of? Writing or drawing answers builds self-awareness.
Noticing Nature Scrapbook
Take photos or collect leaves, feathers and petals. Create a family scrapbook to reflect on changes in the seasons. [Natural Resources Wales – Family Nature Activities](https://naturalresources.wales/days-out/things-to-do/forest-family-fun)
Five Finger Breathing
Hold out a hand. Trace each finger with the opposite index finger, breathing in on the way up and out on the way down. Use during stressful moments.
Feelings Check-In Chart
Create a morning check-in chart with emojis or colours. Let children place a sticker or mark each day to show how they feel. Talk through patterns together.
Noticing Nurture Box
Make a small box with calming items: a scented cloth, a smooth stone, a picture, or a positive note. Children can visit it when they need a moment of calm.
Weekly Reflection Activity
Create a quiet space once a week to reflect as a family. Light a candle or play soft music. Each person can draw or write about something they noticed, enjoyed or wondered about. Keep the pages in a 'family noticing journal'. This routine strengthens emotional wellbeing and memory.
Useful Links and Guidance
- Curriculum for Wales – Health and Wellbeing: https://hwb.gov.wales/curriculum-for-wales/health-and-well-being/
- Whole School Approach to Mental Health and Wellbeing: https://gov.wales/whole-school-approach-mental-health-and-wellbeing-guidance
- BCUHB – Children’s Mental Health Support: https://bcuhb.nhs.wales/services/health-services1/children-and-young-people/mental-health/
- NHS Live Well – Mindfulness and Children: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/children-and-young-adults/advice-for-parents/mental-health-children/
- YoungMinds – Everyday Mindfulness: https://www.youngminds.org.uk/parent/parents-a-z-mental-health-guide/mindfulness/