My Pine Cone Naps on My Tummy

Lying on their backs, children set a pine cone on their tummy and rock it with their breathing, as if putting it to sleep in a boat. It builds belly breathing and helps everyone calm down after play.

How to play

1. Everyone takes a pine cone and finds a spot to lie on their back (1 min).
2. Set the pine cone on your tummy and watch it rise when you breathe in and fall when you breathe out (2 min).
3. Breathe very slowly so the pine cone doesn't tip out of its boat; the teacher counts to three for each breath (2 min).
4. Close your eyes and feel the weight of the pine cone on your tummy while the music plays (1 min).
5. Sit up slowly, hold the pine cone in your hands, and whisper "good night" to it (1 min).

Rules

• I stay lying down in my spot.
• I breathe slowly so I don't wake up the pine cone.
• I use a whisper voice.
• If my pine cone falls, I put it back quietly.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: do it seated and reclined, with the pine cone resting on the belly or lap.
• Autism: if the child doesn't want to close their eyes, they can watch the pine cone the whole time.
• Hearing loss: show the count with the teacher's hand rising and falling very slowly.

Learning goals

• Notice belly breathing.
• Bring energy down after active play.
• Enjoy a calm moment.

Equipment for a class of 25

• large pine cones: 25
• calm music

Teacher tip

Use closed pine cones without sap so they don't poke or stain clothes. Lower your own voice and pace before you start: little ones copy your calm.

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