5 Simple Winter Breathing Exercises for Kids
Cozy, calming techniques inspired by the magic of winter
Winter brings sparkling snowflakes, chilly air, and a season filled with wonder. But for young children, the change in routines, busier schedules, and holiday excitement can also create moments of overwhelm. That’s why winter is the perfect time to introduce calming, imaginative breathing exercises that help little ones slow down and reset.
These five simple winter breathing exercises are designed for preschoolers and early learners. They’re playful, gentle, and easy to add to your homeschool routine or bedtime rituals—and they tap into the magic of the season in a way kids love.
Let’s take a deep, cozy breath and begin!
❄️ 1. Snowflake Breathing
Help little ones slow down and “float” just like a snowflake.
How to do it:
Hold your hand up like a snowflake drifting in the air.
Take a slow breath in as your snowflake floats up.
Slowly breathe out as your snowflake drifts down.
Repeat 5 times, soft and peaceful.
Why it works:
This calming breath encourages slow, controlled movements. Kids love imagining themselves as magical snowflakes gently falling from the sky.
🧤 2. Cozy Cocoa Breaths
A warm, comforting breath that feels like a hug.
How to do it:
Cup your hands like you’re holding a warm mug of hot chocolate.
Take a deep breath in and smell the “cocoa.”
Gently blow out to cool it down.
Repeat 3–5 times.
Why it works:
The imagery of warm cocoa helps children relax their bodies while focusing on slow inhales and controlled exhales—perfect for cold mornings.
🧊 3. Icicle Stretch & Breath
A body-and-breath combo that helps release tension.
How to do it:
Stand tall and reach your arms straight up like a tall, shiny icicle.
Take a deep breath in as you stretch even taller.
Slowly melt downward as you exhale, letting your arms drip toward the floor.
Repeat and “melt” 3–4 times.
Why it works:
This exercise helps kids stretch tight winter muscles and releases stress through slow, mindful movement.
🌬️ 4. Winter Wind Breathing
A playful way to release big emotions.
How to do it:
Sit comfortably and take a quiet breath in.
Blow out like a big gust of winter wind—whoooosh!
Let the wind get softer with each breath.
Finish with one tiny “whisper wind.”
Why it works:
Big breaths help little ones release stored tension, and controlling the “wind” teaches emotional regulation.
🕯️ 5. Candlelight Calm
A gentle bedtime or storytime breathing ritual.
How to do it:
Imagine a candle glowing in front of you.
Breathe in softly through your nose.
Blow out slowly enough to flicker the candle—but not blow it out.
Repeat 4–5 times.
Why it works:
This soothing breath teaches children how to calm their bodies while focusing on slow exhales. It’s wonderful before reading or sleep.
❄️ Bringing Winter Calm Into Your Home
Breathing exercises are powerful tools for young children. They help:
Reduce stress and big emotions
Improve focus during learning time
Support better sleep
Build mindfulness and self-regulation skills
With a little imagination and the magic of winter, these exercises become fun traditions your child will look forward to all season long.
Whether you're snuggled up with a book, spending time outdoors, or winding down after a busy holiday event, winter breathing exercises offer a gentle way to reconnect—to your child and to the moment.
Wishing you a peaceful winter filled with calm breaths, cozy moments, and plenty of snowy magic,
Christi
