Improved State of Mind Exercise for Children (helps w/ Children with ADHD)

Often, low self-esteem is prevalent in children diagnosed with ADHD, because they feel so out of control. They try hard to follow the expectations and norms of their world, and are upset when they are to be held accountable for their “bad” behavior. They are bombarded by negative feedback from their teachers, peers and parents.

Change your state of mind: One of the quickest ways to empower children and boost their self-esteem is to show them that they are in charge of their state of mind. No matter what happens, they can control their internal reactions and feelings. By paying attention to their breathing & changing their body posture, they can change their mood in minutes!

Be the Balloon Game
Remind children of the balloons in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Have them sit in a chair and pretend they are the deflated Underdog balloon-empty & limp. Now take a deep breath, as air is filling them up (sit up straight and tall, with shoulders back & stick out the chest, head raised). Hold it for 3 seconds and release, blowing out all breath & collapse back to original position. Do this exercise two more times. Show children that they can do this in a smaller way, without pretending to be a balloon. Demonstrate how to take a deep breath, hold it for a count of three, and release. They can do this anytime they feel anxious, upset or have hurt feelings. They are in control of their state of mind. Raise their head and hold their shoulders back, looking confident and in control. Their moods should improve, and as a result cause others to respond to them in a more positive way.