55 Inspiring Mindfulness Quotes For Kids Every Mom Should Know

Raising kids in this fast-paced world can sometimes feel like trying to plant flowers in the middle of a storm. We juggle schedules, manage meltdowns, and work hard to mindfully instill valuable life skills, all while trying to keep our own boats afloat. If left unchecked, the stress and chaos of daily life can easily consume us and our children, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. That's why mindfulness can be such a powerful tool, not just for us, but for our little ones too. 

Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment, without judgment or distraction. It's like doing things very intentionally. It allows you to slow down and tune into your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. And while it may seem like a daunting task for kids who are constantly on the go, introducing them to mindfulness at an early age has tons of benefits. I'm sure it'll even benefit you! Here are several simple yet powerful mindfulness quotes for kids that can help anchor them (and us!) to the present moment, enriching their daily lives and ours.

Positive Quotes For Children and the Power of the Present Moment

We can encourage mindfulness through simple mindfulness sayings for kids, we can help them develop a stronger sense of self-awareness and emotional intelligence. They learn to recognize their own thoughts and emotions, as well as those of others. This leads to better communication skills and an increased ability to empathize with others.

The great Thích Nhất Hạnh once said, “The most precious gift we can offer anyone is our attention.” 

Mindfulness is one powerful way of teaching resilience and emotional regulation. It teaches us just that – to be fully present, attentive, and engaged in the here and now.

For kids, understanding the value of the “current moment” can transform their perception of the world. It's about noticing the green leaves rustling on a windy day, feeling the soft fabric of their long sleeve t-shirts, or listening intently to a friend without the rush to respond.

Jon Kabat-Zinn, a pioneer in mindfulness in the West, suggests that “mindfulness means being awake. It means knowing what you are doing.”

For children, this could be as simple as taking deep breaths before answering a question or eating a meal with awareness of each bite – savoring the flavor and texture.

Sharon Salzberg echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that mindfulness “isn’t only about knowing that you’re hearing the birds sing, but also about a certain direct, wordless contact with those sounds.”

Quotes to Inspire Mindfulness in Kids

Let's explore some inspirational quotes that we can share with our young ones to encourage a mindful perspective in their everyday experiences:

“Sometimes the questions are complicated and the answers are simple.” – Dr. Seuss

This means that we can often overthink things and make them more complicated than they need to be, but sometimes the simplest answer is the best one. This quote is a great reminder for kids (and adults) to not get too caught up in overthinking and to trust their instincts and go with simple solutions when needed. It's also a great reminder to not take life too seriously and to sometimes just go with the flow.  So, take a deep breath, be present in the moment, and trust that you have all the answers within you. 

“The basic root of happiness lies in our minds; outer circumstances are nothing more than adverse or favorable.” – Dalai Lama

A reminder that inner peace comes from within, not from our external situations.

“The present moment is the only time over which we have dominion.” – Pema Chödrön

Urging kids to focus on the now as the most effective way to live.

“Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice.” – Steve Jobs 

Encouraging kids to stay true to their thoughts and feelings in the face of external pressures.

“You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” – Marcus Aurelius

Teaching resilience and emotional regulation through mindfulness.

“Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies.” – Mother Teresa 

Reminding kids that little moments and acts of kindness contribute to personal growth.

“Mindfulness is not about getting anywhere else, but being right where you are and being there fully.” – Jack Kornfield 

For children, this could mean enjoying the messy, ordinary things in life, from playing in mud to helping in the kitchen.

“Breathing in, I calm body and mind. Breathing out, I smile. Dwelling in the present moment I know this is the only moment.” – Thích Nhất Hạnh 

In many of his mindfulness quotes for kids, he ecouraging to take deep breaths and find peace in the present moment, rather than dwelling on past mistakes or worrying about future events.

“When we give our mind time to rest, it can heal itself.” – Dr. Daniel Siegel 

Teaching kids the importance of taking breaks and allowing their minds to rest in order to maintain emotional well-being.

“Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson 

Encouraging children to be creative and think outside the box, rather than always following the crowd.

“Creativity is intelligence having fun.” – Albert Einstein

Emphasizing the importance of creativity and allowing kids to have fun while using their minds. 

“Be where you are; otherwise, you will miss your life.” Buddha

Kids are natural-born explorers. This quote is a beautiful reminder to enjoy each adventure, whether it's a math problem or a backyard scavenger hunt.

“Every breath we take can be a beautiful love song.” – Thich Nhat Hanh

This quote encourages kids to find joy and beauty in the moment – something so simple, yet so powerful. You could also take this to living – being able to breathe in the moment is also beautiful.

“Feelings come and go like clouds in a windy sky. Conscious breathing is my anchor.” – Thich Nhat Hanh 

Another one from him and a perfect quote to teach kids that feelings are temporary and that steady breathing can be their calm during emotional storms.

“The most precious gift we can offer others is our presence. When mindfulness embraces those we love, they will bloom like flowers.” – Thich Nhat Hanh

It’s a heartwarming invitation to be genuinely present with family and friends.

“Look past your thoughts, so you may drink the pure nectar of This Moment.” – Rumi

A whimsical way to encourage kids to see beyond their worries and revel in the wonder of now.

“Mindfulness is the path to freedom.” – Buddha

This quote is a lightbulb moment for kids, showing that mindfulness is a key to feeling free and unburdened.

“Inhale the future, exhale the past.” (Unknown)

A simple yet powerful reminder that breathing can help us let go of the past and embrace new possibilities.

“With mindfulness, you can establish yourself in the present in order to touch the wonders of life that are available in this moment.” –Thich Nhat Hanh

This quote encourages kids to tune in to their surroundings and appreciate the beauty and magic in every moment.

“The little things? The little moments? They aren't little.” – Jon Kabat-Zinn 

Children tend to overlook the small details, but this quote reminds them that even the tiniest moments can hold great significance and joy.

“What you think, you become. What you feel, you attract. What you imagine, you create.” – Buddha

   A powerful reminder of the power of thoughts and feelings in shaping our reality.

“Let yourself be silently drawn by the stronger pull of what you really love.” – Rumi 

This quote encourages kids to follow their passions and listen to their hearts, as it will lead them towards a simple yet profound cue to live in the present and not be weighed down by what has come and gone.

“When you look at a tree, see not just the leaves, but also the roots that cling to the Earth.”

This quote teaches kids to look beyond the surface and appreciate the deeper connections in life. It's also a gentle nudge for kids to appreciate not just the beauty of things but also their origins and the stories they hold.

“Everything is created twice, first in the mind and then in reality.” – Robin S. Sharma 

A powerful reminder that our thoughts and imagination have the power to shape our reality.

“Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions.” – Dalai Lama

Many of his mindfulness quotes for kids is to create their own happiness through mindful choices and actions.

“Rest until you feel like playing, then play until you feel like resting, period. Never do anything else.” – Martha Beck

   A reminder for kids to listen to their bodies and trust their own inner guidance when it comes to rest and play.

“The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it.” – Thich Nhat Hanh

A gentle reminder for kids to pay attention to the simple joys that surround them in the present moment.

“The ocean of mindfulness is calm and reflects everything without judgment.”

This visual quote teaches children the power of observation without immediate reaction, much like the calmness of the sea reflects the sky.

“Laughter is the sunshine that dissolves the mind’s fog.”

Encouraging kids to find joy and laughter as a way to clear away worries and see the world more brightly.

“Mindfulness is like a hug you give to yourself.”

A sweet reminder that being mindful is a form of self-care and self-love.

“Just as the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly.”

This quote inspires resilience and hope among children, teaching them that even difficult changes can lead to beautiful transformations.

“The stars only shine in the darkness.”

A powerful metaphor for children, emphasizing the idea that challenges and difficulties are often the backdrop for discovering our true strengths and abilities. Just like stars can't be seen during the day when the sky is bright, we may not realize our own capacity for resilience and brilliance until we face dark or challenging times. This quote teaches children that tough situations can be opportunities for growth and learning, encouraging them to see the beauty and potential in overcoming obstacles. It's a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is light and hope to be found, guiding us to shine our brightest. 

“Being mindful means noticing the music of the world without trying to change the tune.”

This encourages kids to appreciate life as it comes and to be observers of their environment without always seeking to alter it.

“A moment of patience in a moment of anger saves a thousand moments of regret.”

Teaching kids the value of a pause, to reflect rather than react, can be a lifelong lesson in making thoughtful choices.

“The whispers of the world are as important as the shouting.”

Empowering kids to pay attention to the quiet and often overlooked details of life, understanding that wisdom isn't always loud.

“Gratitude is the heart’s memory.”

Encouraging kids to practice gratitude, reminding them that remembering and appreciating the good times can bring joy even on harder days. 

“Kindness is a universal language.”

Reminding kids that small acts of kindness can make a big impact, and that showing empathy and compassion towards others can make the world a better place.

“Believe you can and you're halfway there.”

Instilling confidence in children, teaching them to believe in themselves and their abilities, setting them up for success in life.

“The best way to predict your future is to create it.”

Empowering kids to take control of their lives, encouraging them to dream big and work hard towards their goals. Teaching them that they have the power to shape their own future.

“The world is full of magic, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper.” – W.B. Yeats

Yeats' words invite kids to open their eyes, ears, and hearts to the wonders of the world around them, encouraging a sense of curiosity and amazement that heightens their mindfulness and appreciation for life.

“Mindfulness is the path to the present moment.” – Unknown

This quote serves as a simple yet profound reminder to children that being mindful is essentially about being fully immersed in the now, helping them grasp the importance of living in the present moment.

“Every breath we take, every step we make, can be filled with peace, joy, and serenity.” – Thich Nhat Hanh

   Thich Nhat Hanh teaches kids that mindfulness isn't just a practice but a way of living that can infuse every action with tranquility and happiness, inspiring them to approach life with a calm and joyful heart.

“Feelings come and go like clouds in a windy sky. Conscious breathing is my anchor.” – Thich Nhat Hanh

A beautifully vivid metaphor to help children understand the transient nature of emotions and the stabilizing power of mindful breathing, making it easier for them to cope with fluctuating feelings.

“Be where you are; otherwise, you will miss your life.” – Buddha

This quote from Buddha emphasizes the essence of mindfulness by encouraging kids to fully engage with the present, thereby truly experiencing the richness of life.

“You can't stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.” – Jon Kabat-Zinn

Kabat-Zinn's analogy is perfect for children, illustrating that while we cannot control everything in life, we can learn to move through challenges with grace and resilience, akin to surfing the waves.

“If you want to conquer the anxiety of life, live in the moment, live in the breath.” – Amit Ray

Amit Ray puts forth a powerful strategy for dealing with anxiety, teaching kids the strength found in focusing on the present moment and the rhythm of their breathing.

“When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.” – Lao Tzu

Lao Tzu's wisdom encourages kids to find fulfillment and abundance in their present moment, fostering a sense of completeness and gratitude for what they have.

“Look past your thoughts, so you may drink the pure nectar of this moment.” – Rumi

Rumi challenges children to move beyond the clutter of thoughts and worries to savor the sweetness of the present, enriching their mindfulness practice.

“The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, worry about the future, or anticipate troubles, but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly.” – Buddha

This quote imparts a timeless lesson on the link between mindfulness and well-being, advising kids to live with wisdom in the now for mental and physical health.

“Mindfulness means being awake. It means knowing what you are doing.” – Jon Kabat-Zinn

Kabat-Zinn simplifies the concept of mindfulness for children, describing it as a state of active, open attention to the present, making them more conscious of their actions and choices.

“In the end, only three things matter: how much you loved, how gently you lived, and how gracefully you let go of things not meant for you.” – Buddha

A profound message for kids on the values of love, gentleness, and acceptance, highlighting the importance of living with kindness and grace.

“Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions.” – Dalai Lama

The Dalai Lama's words inspire children to take ownership of their happiness, teaching them that mindful, positive actions are key to a joyful life.

“Life is a dance. Mindfulness is witnessing that dance.” – Amit Ray

Amit Ray beautifully likens life to a dance, with mindfulness as the act of observing and appreciating every move, encouraging children to see life's beauty and complexity.

“Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day.” – Dalai Lama

This quote serves as a powerful reminder to children that their thoughts have the power to shape their day, urging them to cultivate gratitude and positivity each morning.

“There is no greater wealth in this world than peace of mind.” – Unknown

While material possessions may bring temporary happiness, this quote reminds kids that true wealth lies in inner peace and contentment.

Why Positive Messages for Kids Are Important

As parents and caretakers, it's natural to want our children to succeed in life. We want them to excel academically, build meaningful relationships, and find fulfilling careers.

However, it's also important for us to recognize that success doesn't just come from achieving external goals. It also comes from being content with ourselves and living in the present moment.

Many great thinkers throughout history have emphasized the value of creativity in achieving this inner contentment. Maya Angelou once said, “You can't use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” This sentiment speaks to the endless possibilities that come from tapping into our creative potential.

Encouraging children to be creative not only helps them develop important skills like problem-solving and critical thinking, but it also allows them to express themselves freely and build confidence in their abilities. By fostering a love for creativity at a young age, we are setting our children on a path towards self-discovery and personal fulfillment.

In addition, allowing kids to have fun while using their minds is crucial for their development. As Albert Einstein famously stated, “Creativity is intelligence having fun.” When children are engaged in creative activities, they are not only learning and growing, but also having a great time doing it.

Creativity knows no boundaries or limitations. It transcends cultural norms and societal expectations, allowing individuals to think outside the box and see things from different perspectives.

Mindfulness Activities For Kids

Incorporating mindfulness into a child’s daily routine doesn’t have to be a solemn, serious affair. Here are a few fun, practical activities to foster mindfulness:

• Conscious Breathing: Teach them to take deep breaths to manage emotions and calm the mind, especially during transitions like after school or before bedtime.
• Mindful Eating: Encourage them to eat slowly and talk about the flavors and textures they experience.
• Nature Walks: Take walks and ask them to notice new things along the way, focusing on using all their senses.
• Gratitude Moments: End the day by sharing three good things that happened, highlighting the positive impact of gratitude on mental health.

Mindfulness not only helps in reducing anxiety and improving concentration but also plays a crucial role in developing a child’s emotional intelligence. By teaching children to be aware of their feelings and thoughts, we equip them with skills to navigate the complexities of life more effectively.

Rabbi Harold Kushner beautifully sums this up: “When you are kind to others, it not only changes you, it changes the world.”

In a world often filled with noise and haste, teaching our kids to embrace the present moment with a generous spirit and a mindful approach can make all the difference. By sharing these mindfulness quotes and practices, we're not just teaching them to survive; we're teaching them to thrive.

55 Inspiring Mindfulness Quotes For Kids Every Mom Should Know

So as parents and educators, let's continue to encourage our children's creativity by providing them with the tools and resources needed to explore their imaginations. Let's give them the freedom to experiment, make mistakes, and learn from them.

By doing so, we are not only shaping future artists and inventors, but also empowering young minds to reach their full potential. You can never use up creativity, remember? Because the more you use, the more you have.

So keep doing it and watch as your child's imagination continues to soar to new heights!