Taking care of our minds and bodies is not only good for our own wellbeing, but can also help us be more kind, patient, and playful toward the people we love, too. Plus, being mindful about our wellbeing doesn’t need to be complicated. There are things both children and grown-ups can do to care for themselves, every day. Consider these ideas:

  • Sleep well. A good night’s sleep, an afternoon nap, or even a period of “down time” can help refuel our bodies and minds. Help your family look forward to rest time with a calming routine.
  • Write (or draw) it out. Keeping a journal to jot down things you’re thankful for or something funny or good that happened during the day can help lift your spirits. Children can keep a journal or sketchbook, too. You might set aside time each day to sit side by side to draw or write, together!
  • Get grooving! Never underestimate the power of music to change the mood. Put together a playlist of songs that your family can enjoy and listen to together. You might create different playlists for different moods (one to relax, one to energize, and so on).

The videos and activities in this bundle offer more ideas to try.

  1. 1
    Video

    Mae’s Minute: Wellness Tips

    Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Za_k6O1oIyo

    Grown-ups can watch this video to learn how to recognize—and respond to—signs of stress in young children, plus tips they can use to check in with their own mental wellbeing.

  2. 2
    Video

    Elmo’s World News: The Feel-Good All Stars

    Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRKw9cmw9yg

    In this video, Elmo and his friends from all and around the world talk about staying healthy and feeling good.

    Watch together with children, then talk about—and practice—the special ways you like to keep your body and mind healthy and feeling good.

  3. 3
    Printable

    Color Me Calm

    Download printable

    Coloring is fun and relaxing for kids and grown-ups. This adult-child collaborative coloring page promotes relaxed time together. As you color, try paying attention to the details of the design or the sensation of the pencil on the page. Ask a family member to color this picture with you. Take your time and enjoy getting creative together.