Anxiety can be a challenging experience for children, and finding effective ways to support them with their anxiety is important.
One valuable tool that can help kids cope with feelings of anxiety and panic is a mindfulness box, also known as a calm box or self-soothing box. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to create a mindfulness box for children, a simple yet powerful resource to help them find moments of calm and self-soothe during stressful times.
The Mindfulness Box:
Imagine having a special box filled with comforting items that can remind you of a calm place or can help remind you of calming things. That’s precisely what a mindfulness box can be. It’s a container or box filled with items that engage all the senses, helping children ground themselves, and relax, which can alleviate symptoms of anxiety or low mood.
Creating Your Child’s Mindfulness Box: Creating a mindfulness box is a creative and therapeutic process that both you and your child can engage in together. Here’s how to get started:
Choose the Right Container: Begin with an old shoebox or any suitable container that your child can personalise. Encourage them to decorate it in a way that feels soothing and comforting. You can spend some time doing this together. Thing glitter, stickers, wrapping paper, anything that’s fun and tactile for your child.
Select Sensory Items: The key to an effective mindfulness box is the selection of sensory items that resonate with your child. Include items that engage all five senses: sight, touch, taste, smell, and sound. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Sight: Add calming visuals like a small piece of artwork, a photo of a loved one, a figure of an animal they like or reminder of a pet or a picture of a serene natural setting.
- Touch: Soft fabrics, stress balls, fidget toys or a piece of textured fabric can provide tactile comfort.
- Taste: Consider including a favourite soothing tea, a piece of chocolate, gum, mints or a snack that brings joy.
- Smell: A scented candle, pressed flower, essential oils, or a sachet with dried lavender can fill the box with comforting scents.
- Sound: Include a small chime, remainder to listen to a special playlist or something that makes noise as you move or play with it.
Printable Checklist: To make the mindfulness box even more accessible, print a checklist of the items included and add it to the box. This checklist can serve as a reminder of what’s available for comfort during moments of anxiety.
A mindfulness box can be a powerful tool that empowers children to take control of their anxiety. It offers a tangible source of comfort and reassurance during challenging times. By creating a mindfulness box together, you’re not only helping your child manage anxiety but also fostering a sense of self-awareness and emotional resilience.
By Marie Vakakis
