A flower, flower picture or imagination. Avoid real flowers if allergies or plant safety are uncertain.
What to Say
“Imagine you are holding a flower.”
“Would you like to smell it gently?”
“Now let the air leave softly, as if the petals are moving.”
“One comfortable breath is enough.”
What to Do
STEP 1 Invite your child to choose or imagine a flower.
STEP 2 Hold it at a comfortable distance.
STEP 3 Smell it gently with a normal breath in.
STEP 4 Let the breath leave naturally or blow very softly towards the imaginary petals.
STEP 5 Repeat once or twice only if comfortable.
JOIN YOUR CHILD Choose your own imaginary flower and breathe naturally alongside your child. Avoid exaggerating very deep breaths.
One-Minute Version
Smell one imaginary flower and let one comfortable breath out. Finish by naming its colour.
If Your Child Does Not Want to Participate
Let your child choose the flower, draw it, hold it or simply watch. They can notice its colour or texture without focusing on breathing.
Make It Your Own
Use a favourite food smell in imagination if flowers are not engaging.
Keep the flower farther away for scent-sensitive children.
Use only visual noticing when breathing focus feels uncomfortable.
Practise outdoors with a safe familiar plant without touching it.
Your child may focus on the imaginary story, soften their voice or breathing, or simply enjoy choosing a flower. The activity does not need to produce visible calmness.
Do not use plants that may be toxic, irritating or allergenic. Never ask for forceful inhalation, prolonged exhalation or breath holding. Stop if the child coughs, feels dizzy or uncomfortable.
The Calm Flower Breathing, LITTLE MINDS, BIG FOCUS Teacher Training Materials and Activity Collection.
