I am the Youth and Teen Collections Librarian for the eight locations that comprise my library system, and I am responsible for purchasing all materials for ages 0-17. In the past few years, I have noticed an increase in materials addressing mindfulness, meditation, and calming activities for all age groups. Researchers and health professionals are sounding the alarm regarding the increased prevalence of depression and anxiety for children ages 3-17. While the pandemic had a huge impact on mental and emotional health, the current state of the world has continued to contribute to the concerning rise of stress in young children. The following booklist offers a variety of books for young readers to help navigate emotional challenges. I am hoping you will find some helpful titles to offer patrons, caregivers, and readers insight and guidance. Several books offer instructions for mindful breathing and calming movements. Many of the practices covered…
Tag: emotional regulation
Winter Mindfulness for Kids
Winter is here! These cold winter days can mean lots of time cooped up inside with little opportunity for children to release energy. For many who already struggle with regulating, this season can feel especially hard. Librarians can step in to teach and model mindful strategies to help them feel more grounded. Mindfulness in the Library Practicing mindfulness is important to help children regulate, sustain their attention, and manage their emotions. As librarians, we can subtly infuse mindful practices into our programming to support kids. One strategy is to use cozy picture books to offer winter relief, as blogger Erika Hogan shared. Another strategy you could try is implementing “One Mindful Minute” of deep breathing or other stress-reducing activity into your programs. To take things a step further, you could try building an entire activity or program that is centered around mindfulness. As a Certified Yoga Teacher, I have a…
Daniel Tiger for Kids—and for Grown-Ups Too
As a children’s librarian and a parent, I often find myself reflecting on the tools we use to teach emotional regulation, resilience, and empathy. One unexpected but powerful tool for both my daughter and me has been Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood. This gentle animated series, inspired by the legacy of Mister Rogers, has offered not just lessons for children but wisdom that has positively impacted my own mental health as an adult.