Guided Visualization
Studies have shown that guided visualization (or relaxation) can help children to manage anxiety by calming the mind and body. Benefits also include stress reduction, helping to reduce pain, lower blood pressure, lessen nausea, help with sleep, and better sense of control. I’m such a fan of using guided visualization with children, that I use it with my daughters every night before bed.
There are basically two options for using guided visualization: recorded ones or scripts that a parent/caregiver would read to their child. Here are few you may want to try:
Recorded Options
- YouTube has some great options. Here’s one I like https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_mX4JBBIcBk.
- There are also some great apps you can try. I recommend Meditation for Kids or Headspace.
Scripts
- https://www.greenchildmagazine.com/free-meditation-guided-relaxation-scripts-kids/
- Another option is to write your own script. Think about a place that makes you feel relaxed and describe it.