We know easy it is to get caught up in the demands of everyday life and forget to take a moment to pause and be present. But incorporating mindfulness – the practice of paying attention to the present moment – into your family's routine can have a big impact on everyone's well-being. Not only can mindfulness reduce stress and improve overall well-being, it can also help improve focus, increase self-awareness, and foster empathy and compassion.


So how can you introduce mindfulness to your family? It may seem daunting at first, but it can be as simple as taking a few deep breaths together or focusing on a sensory experience, like the taste of a piece of fruit or the feel of the sun on your skin. Here are some other tips for introducing mindfulness to your kids:


  • Make it age-appropriate: Kids of all ages can benefit from mindfulness, but it's important to choose activities that are developmentally appropriate. For younger kids, simple activities like blowing bubbles or listening to calming music can be a great starting point. Older kids may be ready for more advanced techniques like guided meditations or yoga.
  • Keep it short: Kids – especially younger ones – may not have the attention span for long mindfulness sessions. Start with short bursts of mindfulness and gradually increase the length as your kids get more comfortable with the practice.
  • Make it fun: Kids are more likely to engage with mindfulness if it's presented as a game or a fun activity. Use props, like a mindfulness jar or a relaxation mat, to make the experience more interactive and engaging.
  • Be a role model: Kids learn by example, so it's important to model mindfulness yourself. When you're feeling rushed or stressed, take a moment to pause and take a few deep breaths.


Once you've introduced mindfulness to your kids, it's important to find ways to incorporate it into your daily routine. Here are some ideas for integrating mindfulness into your family's life:


  • Set aside a dedicated time for mindfulness: Choose a time that works for your family – it could be first thing in the morning, after dinner, or before bed – and set aside a few minutes for a mindfulness activity, like a guided meditation or a nature walk.
  • Encourage kids to take breaks: When kids are feeling overwhelmed or stressed, encourage them to take a break and focus on their breath. This can be as simple as closing their eyes and taking a few deep breaths, or finding a quiet place to sit and relax.
  • Make mindfulness a part of bedtime routine: A relaxing bedtime routine can help kids wind down and get a good night's sleep. Make it a part of your routine by reading a calming story or doing a relaxation exercise before bed.
  • Incorporate mindfulness into meal times: Turn off screens and devices at meal times and encourage everyone to pay attention to their food and the present moment. Encourage kids to notice the sights, smells, and textures of their food, and to take slow, mindful bites.
  • Find fun and engaging mindfulness activities: There are plenty of fun and engaging mindfulness activities that kids will enjoy, like a mindful coloring session or a sensory scavenger hunt. Experiment and find what works best for your family.


Making mindfulness a habit takes time and practice, but there are a few strategies that can help:


  • Start small: Don't try to do too much at once. Start with short bursts of mindfulness and gradually increase the length as your family gets more comfortable with the practice.
  • Make it a regular part of your routine: The more you practice mindfulness, the easier it will become. Try to find at least one time each day to focus on the present moment.
  • Find activities that your family enjoys: If you're having fun, it's more likely that you'll want to continue the practice. Experiment with different activities and find what works best for your family.


Incorporating mindfulness into your family's routine can help everyone manage stress and emotions more effectively. Here are a few techniques you can try:


  • Take a few deep breaths: Deep breathing can help calm the mind and the body. Encourage kids to take a few deep breaths when they're feeling overwhelmed or upset.
  • Use positive self-talk: Encourage kids to use positive self-talk to manage their emotions. For example, instead of saying "I can't do this," encourage kids to say "I can do this, even if it's hard."
  • Find a relaxation technique that works for your family: Relaxation techniques like progressive muscle relaxation or visualization can help kids manage stress and emotions.


There are plenty of resources available to help you learn more about mindfulness and find support for your practice. Here are a few ideas:


  • Books: There are many books available on mindfulness for kids and families. Some good options include "The Mindful Child" by Susan Kaiser Greenland, "Mindful Kids" by Whitney Stewart, and "The Mindful Family" by Karen Weisberg.
  • Online resources: Websites like Headspace and Stop, Breathe & Think offer a variety of mindfulness resources for kids and families, including guided meditations, games, and activities.
  • Apps: There are many apps available that offer mindfulness resources for kids and families. Some good options include Smiling Mind, Happify, and Buddhify.
  • Community resources: Many schools, community centers, and libraries offer mindfulness resources for families. Check with your local resources to see what's available in your community.


Incorporating mindfulness into your family's routine can be a rewarding experience for everyone. It's an opportunity to slow down, focus on the present moment, and cultivate a sense of calm and well-being. With a little practice and patience, mindfulness can become a habit that your family can carry with them for a lifetime.