Mindful Moments Blog

5 Reasons Kids Misbehave And How To Respond

Mindful Moments Blog

5 Reasons Kids Misbehave And How To Respond

by Ashley Patek on May 17 2022
Here are five common reasons our kids misbehave and some ideas on how to respond for a more peaceful, connected home. 
3 Bunny Brain Breaks To Increase Emotional Regulation And Academic Learning

Mindful Moments Blog

3 Bunny Brain Breaks To Increase Emotional Regulation And Academic Learning

by Ashley Patek on Apr 04 2022
Multi-sensory movements specific to eye-teaming, hand-eye coordination, and whole-body awareness changes the architecture of the brain, bolstering social-emotional and academic learning. Here are 3 Bunny Brain Breaks to do with your kiddos this spring (Free Printable!). 
Children Don't Have Standardized Minds. Let's Quit Testing Them As If They Do.

Mindful Moments Blog

Children Don't Have Standardized Minds. Let's Quit Testing Them As If They Do.

by Ashley Patek on Feb 21 2022
Our kids who are daydreaming or squirming in their seats or not listening or who show poor impulse control are being told that they are not behaving in ways that conform to the classroom. But perhaps their brain is not built for the standardized classroom. What if school looked like this instead?
Is Rushing Academics Detrimental To The Developing Brain?

Mindful Moments Blog

Is Rushing Academics Detrimental To The Developing Brain?

by Ashley Patek on Feb 07 2022
How do children best learn, and what happens when academics are the focus of pre-school and kindergarten? This study gives us some pretty telling answers. 
Connect, Regulate, and Teach Through Play

Mindful Moments Blog

Connect, Regulate, and Teach Through Play

by Rebecca Eanes on Aug 09 2021
Playfulness isn’t only a tool to keep in your parenting toolbox, it’s a mindset. Here are some tips and tools on how to use play to build connection, bolster emotional regulation, and enhance learning. 
How To Use Storytime To Reduce Clinginess & Ease Transitions

Mindful Moments Blog

How To Use Storytime To Reduce Clinginess & Ease Transitions

by Courtney Tharpe on Jun 04 2021
Storytime is a time when our children's imaginations are fired up, operating in the frontal lobe of their brain, and primed for learning. If you are struggling with clingy behavior, transitions, or teaching new skills, a simple, scripted story may be the best tool in your toolbox! Get your FREE scripted story printable here!
The Power Of Play

Mindful Moments Blog

The Power Of Play

by Suzanne Tucker on May 28 2021
When we join our children in their play, we join them in their world. Today Selina leads a mindful moment that invites us to tap into the playful parts of ourselves. 
Supporting Emotional-Intelligence for Neurodiverse Children Through Play

Mindful Moments Blog

Building Emotional-Intelligence Through Play

by Ashley Patek on May 27 2021
As parents we tend to put pressure on ourselves and our kids when it comes to play and learning. But when we step back and let nature and biology take over, we actually see that children are wired to learn through play. Learn how to use unstructured (free) play to teach children the emotional intelligence necessary for an enhanced academic quota down the road. Plus FREE Activity Calendar printable!  
Play-based tool to reduce stress in the classroom

Mindful Moments Blog

A Play-Based Solution To Reducing Stress In The Classroom

by Guest Author on Mar 25 2021
How can educators bring mindfulness practices into their classrooms? This educator shares tips and ideas for playful mindful minutes that can be added into the school day.
Gift giving

Mindful Moments Blog

6 Meaningful Christmas Gifts

by Ashley Patek on Nov 19 2019
Rather than storing unwanted toys in the closet, this year give the children on your list meaningful memories instead. Here are six connection-based gift ideas for ages two and up that we love for the holidays.