Mindful breathing isn’t just a trend; it’s a timeless technique. By introducing this method to elementary students, special educators have an opportunity to instill a life skill that fosters mental wellness, calmness, and improved concentration. Keep reading for a free mindfulness video lesson for elementary students featuring Everyday Speech’s “Pinwheel Breathing” exercise.

Understanding the Importance of Mindfulness

The practice of mindful breathing is advantageous for:

1. Stress Reduction: Breathing techniques can calm the nervous system, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety.
2. Enhancing Focus: It helps students concentrate better on tasks at hand.
3. Emotion Regulation: Mindful breathing allows students to manage and recognize their emotional responses.

Mindfulness Lesson Plan for Elementary Students

Objective: Introduce elementary students to the technique of mindful breathing, enabling them to use it as a tool for concentration and calmness.

1. Understanding Breath (5 minutes)
   • Initiate a conversation about breathing. Ask students how they feel when they take a deep breath.
   • Highlight how breathing can be an anchor during overwhelming moments.
2. Guided Breathing Practice (10 minutes)
   • Have students sit comfortably, either on chairs or mats.
   • Play the pinwheel breathing video sample from Everyday Speech.
   • Discuss the video’s main takeaways and answer any questions students might have.
3. Reflection and Sharing (5 minutes)
   • Encourage students to share their experiences.
   • Discuss potential situations where they can apply these techniques.

Tips for Effective Implementation:

• Always create a calm and comfortable environment before starting breathing exercises.
• Regularly practice so it becomes a habit for students.
• Remind students of the technique during challenging or stressful moments.

Conclusion

Mindful breathing is a simple yet powerful tool. As special educators, our mission is not only to impart academic knowledge but also to provide life skills like this. Embracing and teaching mindful breathing can be a game-changer for many elementary students, giving them a lifelong tool for well-being.

Sample Video

Students learn best from watching real students their own age model skills. Try out this sample video-modeling lesson below. We offer our entire Social-Emotional Learning platform free for 30 days here!

Related Blog Posts:

Changing the Channel on Big Emotions: A Guide for Educators

Enhancing Focus and Self-Regulation with the Five Finger Breathing Exercise

Elementary Social Skills Back to School Activity