From sticking to a routine sleeping schedule to providing nutritious meals throughout the day, there are many ways parents look after their children’s well-being. However, in addition to watching out for their physical health, their mental health should also be monitored. Many kids can harbor anxieties that can hinder them. If your little one appears to be on edge, here are five relaxing activities that family therapists recommend.

5 Stress-Relieving Activities for Kids

1. Take a Dance Break

Being inactive for extended periods causes kids to get antsy, which, in turn, increases their stress levels. To get them moving, put on some of their favorite tunes and let them dance out their negative thoughts in a safe and open environment. 

2. Unplug Outside

While children love to watch TV, play video games, and text friends, excessive screen time is associated with higher stress levels among youth.  One of the best ways to get your child to unplug is to encourage them to play outdoors. Whether they’re looking at bugs through a magnifying glass or playing catch with the family dog, this outside time will help your little one get some fresh air and, hopefully, put a smile on their face.

3. Bust Open a Book

Books offer kids a quick way of escaping negative thought patterns. By diving into a story, your child’s mind will become occupied by the actions of the characters and stop focusing on their own concerns. In addition, research suggests that reading just six minutes a day can lower one’s heart rate, relax muscle tension, and reduce stress levels by 68%.

4. Start Some Art  

Whether they’re engaging their senses by molding clay or painting in watercolors, kids can find art to be a reliable way to relax. Research has shown that participating in art tasks can reduce levels of cortisol—a hormone that increases stress.

5. Get Into Gardening  

Between sowing seeds and watering soil, gardening is shown to have a calming effect on kids. If you don’t have space outside to start a garden, plant small containers for herbs or flowers inside. Although your child won’t see immediate results, they will gradually discover that nurturing their plant over the long term can produce something beautiful.

If these activities aren’t enough to help your child destress, they may benefit from talking to one of our therapists at Families Inc. Counseling Services. With 11 locations found throughout Arkansas, we make it convenient for local families to access affordable mental health services in a relaxing environment. Taking an individualized approach, our family therapists will help your child healthily explore their emotions and develop skills to manage stress effectively. To learn more about our resources, visit us online. Call (877) 595-8869 to set an appointment.