Pediatric Mental Health Blog
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8 Mindfulness Worksheets for Kids
Mindfulness practice offers a guided pathway for children to develop a sense of calm, self-awareness, and emotional regulation. Our collection of free printable PDF mindfulness worksheets provides a variety of engaging activities designed to help kids explore presence of mind, manage stress, and cultivate emotional well-being.
Art Therapy: Emotion Storms
Looking at a storm through a window allows us to see what’s happening while staying safe inside. In a similar way, this therapeutic art activity gives kids an opportunity to conceptualize, visualize, and explore different emotions from a safe distance. Read on to learn how to do it!
Best Fidget Toys for Kids
Fidget toys can relieve stress, reduce anxiety, and channel excess energy to support productive habits. Fidget toys are particularly beneficial for children (or adults!) with neurodivergent brains (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing disorders, etc.) because they provide a physical sensory outlet for suppressed energy.
We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite fidget toys that help kids engage in therapy (also great for long commutes, waiting rooms, or quiet time)!
Child Therapist Tips: Building Rapport
Rapport is the foundation of effective therapy because it represents trust, respect, and positive regard. When a therapist thoughtfully establishes this connection, a child is more likely to open up, express emotions, and securely engage in the therapeutic process to facilitate healing and growth.
Therapeutic Activities with Play-Doh
Modeling dough (like Play-Doh) can be used as a tactile sensory tool for exploring therapeutic concepts with kids. Read on for 5 of our favorite dough activities to help kids relieve stress, exercise emotional literacy, practice coping skills, and resolve conflict.
Sensory Processing Disorders
Children with sensory issues may struggle with textures, loud noises, crowds, food preferences, etc. These sensitivities are often seen in children with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but they can also appear in otherwise typically developing children. Understanding and supporting a child’s unique sensory needs can help them feel more comfortable and engaged in their environment. Read on for more information and free printable resources.