If only children came with an "off" switch... Getting children to wind down can often be a daunting task. Many children are like the Energizer bunny -- they keep going and going and going. Wouldn't you like for your child to be able to embrace inner peace and gain a sense of calm? Of course, it's hard enough for adults to kick back and relax. {relatedarticles}But that doesn't mean it's not possible for both you and your child to de-stress, which is where meditation comes into play. Teaching your children to meditate not only helps instill a sense of calm into them, it also improves their ability to concentrate and become centered. It will also assist in cultivating self-help skills. Meditating doesn't have to be a long, involved process. There are simple techniques you can personally introduce to your kids. If time permits, have them give it a try in the morning before they start their day. If you're in a crunch for time, save meditating for the afternoon or early evening in order to wind down.
Here is one simple exercise that can be done anywhere. Sit criss-cross apple sauce with your child. Backs should be straight and you should be facing forward with eyes closed and hands in the laps. Breathe in and out at a slow and even pace. Take 30 breaths total. In your mind, picture a beach, forest or open field.{relatedarticles} Have your child focus on something that would interest him or her. Maybe it's a flower or a shell or a small animal. Have your child imagine that he or she approaches a spot that's possibly near the ocean, a pond or a creek. She should imagine what the water would sound like and focus on those sounds. Once everybody is done focusing, concentrate on the breathing once again. In addition to mental imagery, you can also teach your child some positive thoughts she can repeat over and over in her head while meditating.