Practice Mindfulness With PBS KIDS Shows and Games

A deep breath of fresh air. A few unexpected minutes of quiet. The first warm sip of your morning coffee. As parents, we know the power of a mindful moment.

We practice mindfulness when we pay attention to what’s happening in the present. Mindfulness looks like slowing down, noticing our thoughts, and accepting our feelings. And it’s a skill that can be especially helpful for kids.

Dr. Bengu Erguner-Tekinap is a Professor of Counselor Education at Drake University. Some of her research focuses on mindfulness and how it applies to children. “The goal of mindfulness is to teach kids to pay attention to their inner experiences and what they are observing around them,” she said.

According to the American Psychological Association, mindfulness can reduce stress and improve memory. It can also increase focus and help us be more mentally flexible. For kids, mindfulness may lead to less worry, better concentration, and fewer tantrums or meltdowns.

Mindfulness is a skill that requires ongoing practice, Dr. Erguner-Tekinap said. But it’s worth the effort. Learning these skills can help kids when they feel overwhelmed or need to focus on a task. And modeling mindfulness as caregivers is crucial. “They will learn more by watching us,” she said.

For example, a 4-year-old and an 8-year-old may practice mindfulness in different ways. Playing a five senses game (what do you see, here, etc.) can help a 4-year-old learn to identify how they are feeling in a situation. And practicing meditation with a “peaceful pause” can help an 8-year-old continue growing skills in mindfulness.

Children can learn mindfulness through simple activities. Your favorite PBS KIDS content can help you build a toolbox of mindfulness practices.

Check out these PBS KIDS shows and games to help grow your family’s mindfulness skills.

“Sesame Street” On “Sesame Street,” young kids ages 2 to 5 learn life lessons and skills with playfulness. The show teaches children to be present with what they’re feeling in the moment. Sesame Street characters notice, accept, and let feelings pass by. As Elmo says, “Yes it’s really great to know, feelings come and feelings go!”

“Elinor Wonders Why” Elinor is a curious bunny exploring science, nature, and community while teaching preschoolers how to follow their curiosity. The focus on observational skills makes this show perfect learning to practice mindfulness by noticing the world around us. You can get curious like Elinor and find a flower or plant to observe with your child. Try to see every part of it.

“Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood” Daniel Tiger learns to cope with life’s big feelings using mindfulness skills like taking deep breaths and noticing emotions. Your preschooler can also learn how to slow down and understand their feelings. Try breathing and counting to 4 together like Daniel Tiger.

“Alma’s Way” 6-year-old Alma shows kids mindful ways to think through tricky situations. In each episode, Alma takes a “think-through” pause. She checks in with her thoughts and feelings. And she considers what’s happening around her. Young children 4 to 6 may enjoy using this pause as a mindfulness tool.

“Wild Kratts” The Kratt Brothers travel the world to learn about and care for wild creatures. Spending time exploring and caring for nature is a wonderful way for your child to practice mindfulness. You can use the show to inspire some peaceful time outdoors for your older child, ages 4 to 8. Try listening to bird songs in your neighborhood or take a nighttime creature walk with your child.

“PBS KIDS Talk About” On “PBS KIDS Talk About,” kids and parents have conversations about real-life topics. The series features families being present together. Conversations explore families’ feelings and thoughts. After watching, your family can have a mindful conversation. What did you notice about these families? How do you feel? How are your experiences the same or different?

Rosie’s Flop Fiesta: Choose a celebration and help Rosie by decorating, cooking, and more. When things go wrong, Rosie takes a moment to check in with her feelings and then looks for a way to solve the problem. Play this game to practice what to do when you have big feelings. Best for ages 3 to 6.

Nature Walk: Young children will enjoy a nature walk with Daniel Tiger. As they stroll, they’ll pause to notice and collect outdoor treasures. Best for ages 2 to 4.

Peg and Cat’s Paint-a-Long: This free-play game lets kids paint shapes, characters, or their own ideas. It offers play that is slow and focused. If they choose to paint, your child can imagine and then paint a scene that feels calm or peaceful. Best for ages 3 to 5.

Feel the Music: Your child can notice how music can bring up different feelings as they play. Try having your child close their eyes to listen to each type of music. Ask how each one makes them feel or what it makes them think about. Best for ages 2 to 4.

Vacuum Hockey: This “Lyla in the Loop” game requires focus and silliness. Mindfulness is all about being fully present in a moment. And your child will have to pay close attention to succeed at Vacuum Hockey! Be more mindful by helping them notice when they’re having lots of fun. Best for ages 4 to 8,

Pinkamazing Family Game: Gather the whole crew to play this game. Focus on being together. Model being completely present with your child. You may find yourself thinking about other things while you play. If this happens, bring your thoughts back to the enjoyable moment together. Best for ages 3 to 6.