I have been doing weekly SEL Sunday Reads for a couple months and this is likely my last one for a while. I wanted to include some around mindfulness.
Here are a few recommendations for Social Emotional
Learning Picture Books, specifically around the topic of mindfulness Some of
these books were suggested to me from teachers taking an SEL education course.
Enjoy!
I
am Peace:A Book About Mindfulness – by Susan Verde
This book is a wonderful picture book that helps children find
peace within through mindful practice. It is an easy read for teachers
and conveys simple messages of:
·
Connecting with the Earth
·
Enhancing one’s imagination
·
Developing one’s expression of emotions
·
Being present
My Magic Breath: Finding Calm Through Mindful Breathing –
by Nick Orther and Alison Taylor
This beautifully illustrated picture book teaches
children about the power in their “magic breath” Students learn how deep
breathing can manage stress, worry and other emotions by calming their mind.
The story is a great introduction to mindful breathing.
“Sitting Still Like a Frog: Mindfulness
Exercises for Kids” by Eline Snel
This book presents mindfulness practices in a
simple, kid-friendly way to help children learn about concentration, deal with
anxiety and stress and handle demanding emotions. It also provides common
scenarios to help children understand their feelings, manage anger, become more
aware, and exercise patience. The book
includes a 60 minute audio CD of guided exercises.
“Breathe Like a Bear: 30 Mindful Moments for
Kids to Feel Calm and Focused Anytime, Anywhere” by Kira Willey
This book teaches children techniques for
managing their emotions. It is filled with lots of ideas that can help
children connect with themselves. The simple and short mindful practices
in this book can be performed anytime and anywhere!
