Mindfulness in Head Start Settings
Mindfulness in Head Start Settings is a course available on the Individualized Professional Development Portfolio that offers mindfulness strategies for adults and children.
Mental Health
Head Start programs support the mental health of children, families, and staff every day. Early childhood mental health is the same as social and emotional well-being. It is a child’s developing capacity to express and regulate emotions, form trusting relationships, explore, and learn—all in the cultural context of family and community. The mental health of children and the adults that care for them is essential for school readiness.
Whole Body Listening with Elmo
Practice along with Elmo as he shows the mindfulness strategy of whole body listening. This activity can be used to help children focus and prepare for the day or a new activity.
Self-love with Grover
This activity can help children build confidence and practice self-love. Together with children, listen and follow Grover’s instructions.
Notice with Cookie Monster
Listen to Cookie Monster explain how to notice things around us. This activity can help children find grounding and focus.
Bubble Breathing with Abby
Take a deep breath with Abby! This activity can help children find calmness and reset.
Body Scan with Big Bird
Follow Big Bird’s instructions and say hello to each part of the body. This activity can be used to help children relax or self-soothe, including during difficult moments.
Promoting Children's Self-regulation with Tucker the Turtle
Tucker the Turtle is here to help children and families learn simple steps and strategies to work through big feelings like anger. This fun resource will have the whole family thinking like a turtle!
Mindful Moments: Flexibility Leads to Excellent Mobility (Flex-M)
Flex-M stands for: Flexibility Leads to Excellent Mobility. Use these stretches in team meetings, during a break, at your desk, or in your classroom to improve flexibility and mobility.
Mindful Moments: S.O.F.T.
Discover the S.O.F.T. relaxation strategy. S.O.F.T. stands for: soften the face; open the heart; float down the shoulders; and take a deep breath. Find three S.O.F.T. strategies to use for a brief relaxation break.
Mindful Moments: Hand Exercises
Use these five different finger and hand stretches at your desk or in your classroom for a quick relaxation boost.