Mindful Maria helps children recognize their feelings, understand their emotions, and practice calming strategies when big feelings arise. Through storytelling, movement, positive self-talk, and practice, children develop tools they can use at school, at home, and with others.
Positive Self-Talk
“I am calm.”
How to Use This Lesson
1. Meet Mindful Maria
Introduce Mindful Maria, a real Powerful You kid who is learning how to calm her body and mind. Ask children, “Have you ever felt angry, worried, or so excited that it was hard to sit still?” Talk about how breathing can help us feel calmer when we have big feelings.
2. Breathe & Stretch
Choose a simple stretch from the Breathe and Stretch on the Beach book or follow Maria's FREE movement video. Invite children to stretch their arms like ocean waves and gently breathe in and out.
3. Read the Powerful You Story
Read Mindful Maria's story from the Powerful You Primary book or laminated cards. Talk about Maria's feelings and experiences. Ask, “What helps you feel calm when you're upset?”
4. Practice Positive Self-Talk
Say Maria's phrase together: “I am calm.” Practice saying it aloud, then quietly in your mind. Remind children that they can use these words while taking slow breaths whenever they need a calming moment.
5. Write or Draw
Choose a writing or drawing activity from the Powerful You Primary book. Invite children to draw a peaceful ocean, a place where they feel calm, or something that helps them relax.
6. Role-Play
Let children hold Maria's laminated card and pretend to be Mindful Maria! Act out everyday situations such as feeling frustrated with a puzzle, getting nervous before speaking, or becoming upset when plans change. Practice stopping, breathing slowly, and quietly saying, “I am calm.”
7. Display the Skill Sign
Display Mindful Maria's Ocean Breathing sign where children can see it. Practice sitting or standing tall, breathing in and out through the nose, and imagining gentle ocean waves. Follow the sign's breathing pattern, including its brief pauses if comfortable, for 5–10 breaths. Ask, “Can you hear the ocean as you breathe?” Children can breathe naturally without holding their breath if that feels better.
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