FOR PARENTS & TEACHERS
A little pause, together.
You do not need a lesson plan or a perfectly quiet room to offer a short breathing break. Start with an invitation, keep it gentle, and let your child choose whether to join in.
Try it together
- Find a comfortable spot. Sit or stand in a way that feels easy. You can keep your eyes open.
- Offer, rather than insist. Try: “Would you like to take a little pause with me?” Watching the bubble without following it is fine too.
- Keep the breath comfortable. Let a gentle breath come in and go out. There is no need for a big breath, a breath hold, or a perfect rhythm.
- Finish when it feels right. The bubble runs for 30 seconds, but you can stop sooner. There is nothing to complete or get right.
The bubble is a guide, not a target
It grows for three seconds and shrinks for three seconds, with no holds. That timing makes a short visual activity; it is not a prescribed breathing rate for every child. Encourage children to go at their own pace rather than change their breath to keep up.
At home or in the classroom
You could offer a pause before starting homework, after a busy activity, or during a quiet classroom transition. Trying it at an ordinary, settled moment can help a child become familiar with the activity.
In a group, make joining in optional. Keep eyes open if preferred, and offer a quiet alternative such as looking around the room or sitting comfortably. Avoid comparing children, rewarding completion or using the exercise as a punishment.
A free printable reminder
Keep this one-page A4 card nearby, or use it in your classroom. It has short prompts and a QR code that opens the children's bubble. No email address or sign-up is needed.
Download the free breathing card (PDF)
Print at actual size on A4. You may print copies for your home or classroom. A phone or timer is optional: the card can be used on its own.
Comfort comes first
Stop if a child feels dizzy, uncomfortable, upset or does not want to continue. Do not ask them to force, deepen or lengthen their breath. This is a general wellbeing activity, not treatment for breathing difficulties or other health conditions. Follow any advice from their clinician; seek medical help for breathing difficulties rather than using this exercise.
For more background, see NHS guidance on mindfulness with children and NHS guidance on comfortable breathing.