Mindful Play

Mindfulness can be great for people of any age, here Sara Whatley explores the benefits of mindful toys which can help calm children and improve focus and attention 

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 children 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. 

By recognising different feelings, discussing scenarios or using characters to express emotions can help kids build empathy and awareness. 

Apps

While not a physical toy, Apps can be a fun addition to your child’s mindfulness toolkit. With guided meditations, calming visuals and breathing exercises, they can be 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.