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Breathing Buddies

Age 3–8
A small stuffed animal
5–10 min

What It Builds

Self-regulation and slow belly breathing, made concrete and playful for young children who do best with something to watch and feel.

How to Do It

  1. 1

    Have your child lie down and place a stuffed animal on their belly.

  2. 2

    Tell them the buddy is going for a slow ride.

  3. 3

    Breathe in slowly through the nose so the buddy rises.

  4. 4

    Breathe out slowly so the buddy lowers.

  5. 5

    Watch the buddy rise and fall for several breaths together.

Tips & Variations

  • Count "in two three, out two three".
  • Do it at bedtime to wind down.
  • Let the child pick their breathing buddy.
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