Activity: Mindfulness Calming Jar

Objective:

One of the “big” emotions that we experience is anger. Sometimes acknowledging our anger and finding healthy ways to express it can be really hard. Calming jars gives us a chance to release & settle when we have a flurry of big feelings.

Supplies:

• A jar with a lid (mason jars work well)
• 1-2 tablespoons of clear or glitter glue
• 3-4 tablespoons glitter
• Warm water
• Food coloring

Instructions:

• Fill the jar with warm water, leaving a small gap at the top for shaking room.
• Invite participants to choose which colors they prefer for their glitter and food coloring.
• Add the glue, glitter, and food coloring in the jar. The warm water will break up the glue which makes the glitter move more slowly in the jar.
• Screw the lid on tight and shake until ingredients are mixed.
• SHAKE & mindfully notice how the glitter slowly moves down towards the bottom of the jar – settling back into a place of calm.

Additional Ideas:

Taking deep breaths can also be helpful when you’re feeling angry. Check out the video “Just Breathe” where kids talk about how to use deep breaths to calm down when they are experiencing anger and other “big” emotions.

Download Printable Activity