The Power of Mindful Play: How Mindfulness Benefits Kids and Parents Alike
In the whirlwind of modern parenting—between school drop-offs, work emails, and the endless pile of laundry—it can be hard to slow down. But even just 10 minutes of mindful play can help both kids and parents feel more calm, connected, and emotionally grounded.
So what is mindful play, and how can you bring it into your family’s daily rhythm?
What is Mindful Play?
Mindful play is about being present in the moment with your child. There’s no end goal—just exploration, imagination, and noticing. It’s often quiet, sensory, and open-ended: think kneading dough, building a nature collage, or swirling colours in water.
It doesn’t require expensive toys or a big chunk of time. The key is the intention behind it—slowing down and engaging fully in the moment, without distraction or judgment.
Why Mindful Play Matters
Research shows that mindfulness and sensory-based play can support:
Improved focus and emotional regulation
Reduced anxiety and overstimulation
Greater creativity and problem-solving
Stronger parent-child connection
Better sleep and self-soothing skills
And for parents, it can be a gentle reminder to slow down, breathe, and just be—even if only for a few minutes.
Practical Tips for Mindful Play at Home
Here are a few easy ways to weave mindful play into your day—no prep or Pinterest pressure required:
1. Start Small (Think 10 Minutes)
Set a timer for 10–15 minutes and commit to just being with your child. Put your phone away. Sit on the floor. Let them lead.
2. Engage the Senses
Use play materials that invite touch, smell, sight, and even sound. Some examples:
Homemade or store-bought play dough
Dried flowers, herbs, or spices in bowls for mixing
Water with a drop of food colouring and spoons for swirling
Sand, leaves, pebbles, or bark from the garden
Sensory play helps regulate the nervous system and can be incredibly grounding.
3. Narrate the Moment
Slowly talk through what you’re noticing:
“This dough feels squishy in my hands.”
“I love how the colours mix together.”
“Can you hear the leaves crunching?”
This kind of gentle language helps children build awareness and emotional vocabulary.
4. Create a ‘Yes’ Space
Set up a small basket of calming, open-ended materials your child can reach anytime:
Wooden blocks
Eco-friendly dough or clay
Smooth stones or crystals
Recycled paper for free drawing
Beads and string for threading
This becomes a go-to space when they (or you!) need a mindful moment.
5. Use Nature as a Reset Button
Even a 5-minute walk to collect leaves, breathe the outside air, or sit quietly under a tree can work wonders. Nature play is naturally mindful—there’s rhythm, stillness, and space to just be.
What If My Child Can’t Sit Still?
Mindfulness doesn’t mean being still or silent. Active kids can be mindful while:
Pouring water between cups
Running fingers through a rice tray
Making potions with flower petals and herbs
Doing yoga stretches or animal walks
Let their energy guide you—there’s no right way to be mindful.
Mindful play isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing less—but with intention. It’s one of the simplest ways to connect with your child, support their development, and regulate your own nervous system too.
Whether it’s part of your daily rhythm or a gentle reset in a busy week, these small, sensory moments can have a big impact—for both of you.
At Little Leaf, we’re passionate about supporting eco-conscious families with meaningful alternatives to plastic, sugar-filled party bags. Our thoughtfully designed dough kits, potion play sets, and DIY craft favours are perfect for creating calm, creative moments—at parties and beyond.
Each favour is an invitation to pause, play, and connect.
Ready to bring more mindfulness into your family life?
Explore our range of mindful, eco-friendly party favours and sensory kits at www.littleleaf.com.au
Because small hands, and busy minds, deserve purposeful play.
