Instructions

Have your child pick out a snack and before they eat it, ask them to describe what it looks like, what it feels like, and what it smells like. Then, ask your little one to put it in their mouth without biting down to chew it. Ask them to notice how it feels in their mouth and what it tastes like before biting down. Next, your child can chew it and finally swallow it paying attention to each step. Ask your little to tell you what it was like to eat this way! This is a great mindfulness exercise for all ages -- try it together for extra bonding!

The Science

This is a spin on a classic mindfulness exercise, which helps your child attune to the world around them. By focusing on their experience in great detail, your child is strengthening neural networks associated with problem solving, emotion regulation, and goal-directed achievement.