When mommy finds Niko in his room worried. She explains the symptoms he's feeling are anxiety. She tells him about a game she plays when she feels worried or anxious.
"You get worried too, Mommy?"
"Of course! Everyone worries or feels anxious sometimes. Let's go to the back porch, and I will teach you how to play,” suggests mommy.
Mommy explains each of the senses and takes Niko through the steps to explore his backyard using just one at a time. With scary thoughts spinning and his tummy all twisted up, Niko gives it a try. Can Mommy's game help stop these bad feelings and bring about calm?
Teaching children how to play for themselves provides a skill to self-soothe and retake their control of emotions. Parents will find the story and game helpful to achieve a mindfulness space during the stressors of life.