By Jingyuan Sun, Fanshawe College, Early Childhood Leadership. Jingyuan wrote this during her Parents2Partners internship. She believes strong leaders and educators build positive connections with colleagues and families so children can grow up healthy.
Growing up is full of new experiences and big feelings. Just like adults, children can learn to care for their bodies, feelings, and minds. Here are simple self care ideas parents and teachers can share with kids.
What is self care?
Self care means doing things that help us feel good and grow stronger and safer inside.
Self care ideas for kids
- Name your feelings. All feelings are okay. Talk about them with someone you trust.
- Find your calm. Try belly breathing or mindful coloring when you feel worried.
- Care for your body. Move, eat healthy foods, and get enough sleep.
- Play! Play helps you learn, create, and make friends.
- Make a self care routine. Plan time for things you love, like reading, drawing, or playing with friends or pets.
- Express yourself. Write, draw, dance, sing, or play music to share what you think and feel.
- Be a good friend. Kindness and empathy build friendships that last.
- Know your limits. It is okay to say no when something does not feel right, and to speak up for what you need.
- Take tech breaks. Step away from screens to play outside or read.
- Help others. Small acts of kindness, like sharing, make everyone feel good.
- Rest well. A calm bedtime routine helps your body grow and your mind rest.
Remind children that they matter and that caring for themselves is important. With patience and kindness toward themselves, they can grow into happy, healthy people ready to explore the world.