instructions

The Name Game

This game is simpler than Eye Spy and yet it can be a powerful tool to curb spiraling thoughts. First, look around you and name three things you can hear, then two things you can see, and finally one sensation that you feel. By doing this, you are grounding yourself by increasing your awareness of your body and your environment.

The Chime Game

If you have a chime or a bell, ring it once and observe the moment you can't hear the sound anymore. You can do this with your family or a group of friends. Have each person raise their hand when they lose the sound. You might find that everyone's hearing is different. If you don't have chime, you can use another musical instrument. Or you can find a sound on the internet.

The Sound Game

This is another exercise you can do with your kids. It's very similar to The Name Game except this time, invite your little ones to put on their listening ears like they are putting on imaginary headphones. Ask them to identify 10 sounds that they can hear.

You can prompt them by asking: Can hear sounds from inside your body? Inside the room? Outside the house? Do you notice some sounds more than others?

At Mindful Schools, we find that this is a helpful practice for children when they are feeling overwhelmed. It’s a powerful way to gently shift their attention from something that is frustrating to something that is more neutral, like sound.