BUNNY BREATHS

A colorful bunny practices a morning mindfulness routine that young children can imitate.

Just what is needed in this stressful time: a book that shows young children and their caregivers how to slow down and just breathe. This latest in the Mindfulness Moments for Kids series, written by a children’s yoga-and-mindfulness musician, features a bunny hungry for a carrot but unsure where to look. Simple breathing exercises help Bunny focus until she becomes aware of subtle smells, even the scent of a carrot growing. Multicolored pastel animals—a squirel, a hedgehog, a fox, and a mouse—follow Bunny’s example, sitting up tall, holding still, and making “bunny paws.” The repeated instruction is especially effective: “Take quick little sniffs with your nose. SNIFF! SNIFF! SNIFF! Then let aaall the air out.” It is almost impossible to read those words without slowing and calming the breath. Without excess words or pedantry, Willey gives even adults new to mindfulness practice a way to help young children let go of anxiety and pause before reacting. Bunny and her animal friends are drawn in whimsical pastel colors against light backgrounds. The pictures become brighter and more energetic as Bunny awakens and bounds off to start her day with a carrot treat.

Age-appropriate mindfulness practice that’s fine for tucking into an Easter basket and useful throughout the year.