Autumn Mindfulness Ideas for Children
Hello and welcome to the start of our special week on Autumn! Autumn is definitely on the way and so I thought throughout the week ahead I would share some mindfulness, nature and craft ideas for families to use this Autumn as well as some resources you might like to use. Understanding and experiencing the changing seasons is an essential part of childhood. It provides opportunities for hands-on learning about science, biology, and the natural world. Kids can learn about how plants grow, why the weather changes, and how different animals adapt to the seasons and just generally be tuned into the world around them! For our first day we are sharing some mindfulness activities for children!
Mindfulness activities for children can be a great way to help them connect with the changing seasons and develop a sense of presence and wonder. Here are some mindfulness ideas linked to autumn:
1. Leaf Meditation: Take a walk with your child in a local park or wood (or your garden!) and collect fallen leaves. Sit down together and observe the colours, shapes, and textures of the leaves. Encourage your child to take deep breaths and focus on the details of the leaves, feeling the cool breeze and listening to the rustling of leaves as they breathe.
2. Nature Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of autumn-related items for your child to find in nature, such as acorns, pinecones, colourful leaves, or a spider web. As they search, encourage them to stay fully present and observe the sights, sounds, and smells of the season. You could also discuss how people around the world would find different things!
3. Mindful Pumpkin Carving: Carving pumpkins can be a creative and mindful activity. Help your child engage in the process with full attention. Feel the texture of the pumpkin's skin, smell the earthy scent, and carefully carve out the design. I would like to think we can do some mindful carving in the Mindful Explorers house but we will see!
4. Autumn Art: Set up an outdoor art station with paper, watercolours or another paint of your choice, and coloured pencils. Have your child create an autumn-themed artwork, such as a tree with falling leaves. Encourage them to paint or draw slowly and with intention, paying attention to the colours and shapes they use. What would be lovely is if you joined in too! If you create any art work please do tag me in!
5. Apple (or other Autumn Food) Tasting: Visit an apple orchard or local farmer's market and let your child select different types of apples. Taste each variety mindfully, noticing the differences in flavour, texture, and smell. Discuss which ones they like best and why.
6. Cloud Watching: Find a comfortable spot outdoors, lie down, and watch the clouds pass by. Encourage your child to let their imagination run wild, seeing shapes and creatures in the clouds. This activity can help them develop mindfulness by being fully present in the moment. This used to be a favourite activity when I was in the classroom.
7. Gratitude Journal: Create a gratitude journal with your child. Each day, ask them to write down one thing they are thankful for that is related to autumn. This practice helps them focus on positive aspects of the season.
8. Autumn Soundscapes: Go to a quiet spot in nature and listen mindfully to the sounds of autumn. Ask your child to identify the sounds of leaves rustling, birds chirping, or distant laughter. This can help them develop a deep connection with the season.
9. Harvest Mindfulness: If you have a garden or access to one, involve your child in harvesting autumn vegetables like pumpkins, squash, or carrots. Encourage them to notice the colours, shapes, and textures of the vegetables they harvest and express gratitude for the harvest.
Remember that the key to these mindfulness activities is to encourage your child to engage their senses and be fully present in the moment. These practices can help them develop a sense of appreciation and wonder for the beauty of autumn.
Which is your favourite? Do let me know if you try any of them out!
#creativemindfulness #mindfulchildren #mindfulparenting #slowliving #livingseasonally #autumn #kidsinnature #kidsandnature
