They may be little, but our tamariki feel big emotions. One minute they’re happily playing, the next they’re overwhelmed by something we might find x. Whether it’s the wrong coloured cup at breakfast or having to wait for someone else to finish with a toy, life is full of situations that challenge our young people. And for parents, managing those moments can be just as challenging, especially when you’re already tired or running on empty.
That’s where mindfulness and emotional regulation come in, and they’re just as important for children as they are for adults. Mindfulness for kids doesn’t come in the form of long meditation or reflection sessions, but through small, practical tools that help tamariki recognise what they’re feeling and work through it safely.
What mindfulness looks like for young children
For children, mindfulness is all about noticing what’s happening in their bodies and identifying their emotions in the moment. It’s learning how to pause, breathe, and regain a sense of calm when their body or mind starts to feel out of control.
In early childhood education, those skills are closely linked to the emotional development goals that are incorporated in Te Whāriki. Part of our role is to encourage children to build confidence, communication skills, and emotional wellbeing, and you can support that mahi at home too.
Why emotional regulation matters
Young children are still learning to manage their feelings, and those feelings don’t disappear just because an adult explains things logically. By supporting children in moments of frustration, anger or upset, they take less time to return to a state of calm after difficult moments, which in turn has positive impacts on their learning and their relationships with others.
Sometimes, it’s just helping children name what they’re feeling. “You’re feeling frustrated because you wanted another turn” validates their experience and provides language for emotions they’re still learning about.
Calm strategies that work for young children
Unlike the still, quiet exercises for adults, mindfulness practices for children tend to be movement-based and sensory. One of the most popular calming techniques for kids we use at Koru Kids is “balloon breathing”, where they slowly breathe in as if filling a balloon, then gently blow the air back out.
Movement can be a great tool too. Stretching, dancing, or pretending to move like animals all give children a chance to release energy and reconnect with their bodies.
Sensory experiences also help regulate emotions, which is why we always have tactile environments in our centres, whether it’s sand/water play or a dedicated sensory space. Some families find it helpful to create a quiet corner at home with books, cushions, or sensory items where children can take a break when they need one.
At home, having some sense of routine can be a great way to improve emotional regulation for children. Predictable mealtimes, bedtime routines, and gentle transitions from one activity to the next help children feel secure because they know what to expect.
How Koru Kids kaiako support emotional wellbeing
Alongside our great facilities, kaiako at Koru Kids support our tamariki in age-appropriate ways across each of our classrooms.
In Te Aroha (0-2 years) emotional regulation starts with responsiveness and attachment to help infants feel secure in their environment.
In Mahira (2-3.5 years) kaiako begin to support children with social interactions, emotional language, and gentle guidance during group play.
In Pakiki (3.5-5 years) children gain more independence as they’re encouraged to solve problems, manage frustration, and communicate their needs.
Raising a mindful generation
Mindfulness isn’t about raising ‘perfect’ children who never get upset, but about giving tamariki the tools to work through difficult emotions and feel safe asking for support when they need it.
Learn more about Koru Kids Early Learning Centre’s approach to wellbeing, explore our frequently asked questions, or book a tour to visit our centre in Papatoetoe for yourself.