LEGO New Zealand has highlighted the importance of mindfulness with renowned child psychologist Dr Emma Woodward.
In today’s fast-paced world, finding moments of calm and focus is more important than ever. With Mindfulness Day fast approaching on the 12th of September, there is no better opportunity to take a moment to practise the art of mindfulness, and encourage your young ones to do the same.
This year, LEGO New Zealand has partnered with child psychologist Dr. Emma Woodward, to highlight the importance of mindfulness and encourage Kiwis to take the time to engage in play with those around them and build memories that bring joy.
“Mindfulness is an incredibly valuable skill for children, and learning it alongside their parents can make a huge difference in their lives. When families practise mindfulness together, it’s not just about teaching a technique; it’s about building a supportive environment where everyone learns and grows together,” Dr Woodward said.
Mindful Mantras
Getting into a routine with yourself and your kids where you practise positive self-talk and journaling can create an environment where self-confidence, decreased negative thoughts, and resilience soar. Sitting in front of the mirror together as you get ready in the morning and naming five things you love about yourself is an easy and extremely beneficial practice to promote self-love with your children, and yourself! If your kids are a little older and this doesn’t feel like something they’d be comfortable doing, then encouraging them to write their daily mantras in a journal can be an equally beneficial way to practise positive self-talk.
Mindful Play for Kids
Encourage children to use LEGO bricks as a tool for mindfulness by focusing on the sensory experience of building. Invite them to explore the different textures, colours, and shapes of the bricks, and to be fully present in the moment as they build.
“Encourage your child to notice the textures of the bricks, the process of snapping them together, and the satisfaction of creating something new,” Dr Woodward suggested.
This practice can help children develop concentration and emotional awareness. You could turn it into a daily or weekly activity, setting aside time for you and your child to build quietly and reflect on how it makes you both feel.
Meditation Stations
Create a dedicated building meditation station at home, where both children and adults can retreat to build and relax. This space could include a selection of LEGO sets, comfortable seating, and perhaps some soft lighting to set a peaceful mood. Dr Woodward recommended integrating mindfulness exercises like deep breathing sessions before diving into the building process.
“A quick breathing exercise or a simple moment of quiet reflection can help your child centre themselves and improve their focus.”
This station could become a cherished part of your daily or weekly routine, offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. To keep it interesting, you can consider rotating the themes of the builds. One week it could be nature-inspired, the next it might be something abstract—keeping the activity fresh and engaging offering an ongoing retreat.
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