The three options in this activity plan move from demonstration (Option 1) to practice with a prop (Option 2) to practice without a prop in a potentially different body position (Option 3). Some toddlers may be ready for Option 3 without the preparation of Options 1 and/or 2. In contrast, some toddlers may find it challenging to focus on their breathing in an intentional way and struggle with the limited supports of Option 3. There may be a tendency among some toddlers to breathe out quickly and maybe forcefully, as if blowing out birthday candles. Positively acknowledge this tendency (it has a basis in most children’s experiences) while at the same time encouraging toddlers to breathe slowly. In some sessions, it may be helpful to focus more on breathing out than on breathing in.

Slowing down the pace of the activity and talking in a quiet, soothing voice will help to foster a positive, calming experience for toddlers. You may wish to provide additional time for toddlers to observe, imitate, and practice breathing throughout the week (See Extra Support tip). Also, talking with toddlers about how breathing makes them feel can add conceptual understanding to intentional breathing practices.

If toddlers show difficulty in focusing on breathing slowly, it would be better to politely stop the activity and try again at a later time than to continue to practice breathing in an unproductive way.

As toddlers show improved skill in calming their minds and bodies through deep and slow breathing, encourage them to use breathing at relevant times during the day. (See Enrichment tip below.)

Extra support

• Repeat Option 1 with toddlers who find it hard to focus on their breathing. It can be helpful to watch you breathe or maybe another toddler who is mastering the practice of intentional breathing. Ensure each toddler has the opportunity to be successful with one of the options (or parts of an option) in this activity plan.
• Provide opportunities for toddlers to focus on breathing in through their nose. Examples: Encourage children to smell flowers or plants outdoors, a food item at mealtime, or a pine cone in the science area. Talk with toddlers about how it feels to breathe through their nose in comparison to their mouth.

Enrichment

• Encourage toddlers to use this breathing exercise at other times during the day when they would like to feel calm. Example: “I can see you are frustrated with your puzzle, Iona. Remember how we learned to breathe in deeply and slowly? Let’s try that breathing now to see if it helps you get calm.”