She's stomping around and glaring. In case we miss how mad she is, her words are laced with contemptuous proof of anger, "I don't like bananas. I've already told you that! Do I need to say it louder so you'll understand?" Like a fountain splashing dirty water, her rage dumps onto me. And I react. With anger. I'm thinking How ungrateful! She's so rude! Her poor sister! I'm sick of this! … [Read more...]
Emotional Intelligence Activity for Kids: Pooh Sticks
As you know, we're talking a lot about emotional intelligence and mindfulness this summer. Emotional awareness is the first step to being mindful, in order to develop emotional intelligence, or EQ. To begin, you must observe your emotions without judgement. I've found an emotional intelligence activity for kids that will give them a visual representation of how the emotions flow in and out the … [Read more...]
Positive Affirmations for Kids
Let's build on mindfulness by showing kids how positive affirmations can help improve their lives. First, help your kids be aware (mindful) of their self-talk. I didn't figure this out for myself until my thirties (in therapy) so I want my kids to start with this as a core foundation. I shared previously that we've started with mindfulness training using the MindUp curriculum and other … [Read more...]
Teaching Mindfulness to Kids
I believe in the power of mindfulness which is why I'm teaching mindfulness to my kids. What Is Mindfulness? Mindfulness is being aware of what's going on in the present moment. For kids, it helps focus attention, improve self-regulation (impulsivity and decision making,) build resiliency to stress and develop a positive mindset. "With mindfulness, we can preserve our inner joy, so that we can … [Read more...]
Zentangle for Kids
Doodling builds brain connections -- it's great for you and your kids. Take doodling to the next level and try zentangles. In fact, host your own DIY zentangle camp for kids! Why Doodle? If you're a visual or kinesthetic learner, doodling helps you learn and recall information. Sunny Brown says in her TED Talk, "People who doodle when they’re exposed to verbal information retain more of that … [Read more...]
Living in the Moment With a Buddha Board
Are you enjoying the summer's moments? My two-week tech break wasn't totally successful but, I did cut way back. And, in the process, I found more opportunities to be present with my kids, my husband, and my friends. To just breathe. Listen. Be. Lately, I've been leaving my phone at home, turning off my emails during the day, spending the first moments of the morning with a cup of coffee and … [Read more...]