Happy Play = Happy Brain
3 Calming Play Prompts for Overwhelmed Kids (and Grown-ups Too)
Dear Friend,
As spring invites us outside, it’s a perfect reminder: play is not just fun — it’s how kids process the world and regulate emotions. But for some children, bright lights, busy days, and noisy play can quickly turn from exciting to overwhelming.
The good news? You don’t need complicated routines.
Just a few mindful minutes can help your child feel calm, connected, and safe — and it might help you, too.
💛 Why Play Matters
Play lights up the brain. It builds emotional resilience, supports social skills, and even reduces stress.
Mindful play simply means being present — no rules, no screens, just noticing what feels good in the moment.
🌱 3 Calm + Mindful Play Ideas
1. 🌬️ Wish & Blow Dandelion Game
Find a dandelion puff and invite your child to gently blow the seeds into the breeze.
Why it helps:
Encourages slow, deep breathing
Offers visual focus and a grounding pause
Connects movement with calm
💬 “Let’s make a wish and blow it into the wind… Big breath in… and blow!”
No dandelions? Try a pinwheel, cotton ball, or feather instead.
2. 🫧 Toy Spa Day
Add warm water and bubbles to a bowl. Invite your child to wash a favorite toy, gently and slowly.
Why it helps:
Warm water soothes the body
Repetitive motions calm the mind
Nurturing play builds connection
💬 “Let’s give your toy a spa day — soft bubbles and relaxing water.”
3. 🍃 Outdoor Treasure Time
Head outside for a quiet “treasure hunt” — collecting leaves, rocks, or petals. Sort them on a cloth or tray, or just admire them together.
Why it helps:
Activates the senses gently
Slows the pace of the day
Brings grounding through nature
💬 “Let’s look for soft things or tiny treasures. What can we find?”
🧘♀️ For You, Too
Mindful play isn’t just for kids. When you take a breath, soften your face, and ground yourself, your child will feel it too.
Try this together before play:
💬 “Let’s play with our hearts open and our bodies calm.”
💛 Need More Gentle Ideas?
Check out my Instagram @AMindfulMomentForKids or @RebeccaFaceYoga for weekly sensory play tips, face yoga, and calming scripts for kids (and grownups).
Wishing you a playful, peaceful May,
Rebecca Narvaez
