Focus, mindfulness, relaxation and concentration are key elements of achieving emotional well-being, and are also important for a child’s development of skills and abilities. “Focussing and Calming Activities for Children” helps children to build social, emotional and spiritual well-being. Part One covers the theoretical and practical background. It illustrates how the capacity to calm oneself, focus attention and concentrate can help a child build specific skills and abilities and regulate themselves, and demonstrates the importance of play and imagination. It also sets out how to structure the emotional environment. Part Two is made up of games and activities that teach children how to develop these mindfulness and calming skills. The activities are suitable for use with groups and individual children aged 5-12, and can be adapted for children with specific attention and concentration difficulties and for older children. This is an ideal resource for teachers, counsellors, social workers, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, youth workers, parents, and carers.
Review
Adults are encouraged to use the games mindfully, making sure they are aware of the possible effects exploring sensitive issues with vulnerable children. Ideas for reflection after each activity prompt children to make sense of the feelings generated by the game they have played. The games are simple to play and clearly explained, with symbols indicating the time required and the recommended age. The games range from five to 60 minutes’ duration, and mostly require no extra resources, which make them an invaluable resource for any adult who works with children aged 5-12. — The Sign
This slim volume, aimed at teachers, parents, counsellors and other professionals, contains theory and practical group games to encourage young people to achieve greater emotional wellbeing… suited to parents who want to increase qualities of mindfulness in their children in today’s difficult world. — BACP Children & Young People
Presented in a spirit of openness, that same spirit underlies what the author seeks to foster both in those who read the book and the children with whom they work and play. Every teacher should have a copy. — Red Reading Hub – Jillrbennett’s Reviews of Children’s Books and The Word Pool
This is a hugely important book for our times, demonstrating the interplay between mindfulness, attention, wellbeing and compassion. Its balance of theory and wisdom with practical activities makes it essential reading for parents, educators and policy-makers. — Elizabeth Holmes, writer, journalist, professional development trainer and author of The Newly Qualified Teacher’s Handbook
Let’s Play! This book provides an extensive repertoire of mindful games chosen to enhance focusing, calming, self-reflection and social interaction. It also offers a useful discussion regarding the benefits of playing games, and easy to follow suggestions for adapting games to enhance mindfulness, and social-emotional competency. It is a wonderful addition to any mindful library. — Dr Amy Saltzman, Director of the Association for Mindfulness in Education (AME) and founder of The Still Quiet Place
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