The Scarf That Breathes on My Tummy

Lying face up, children place a scarf on their tummy and watch it rise and fall with their breath, then make it dance with a gentle puff of air. It brings the group back to calm by noticing their breathing.

How to play

1. With soft music on, lie on your back and spread the scarf over your tummy (1 min).
2. Lift your head a little and watch the scarf rise when you breathe in and sink when you breathe out (1 min).
3. Breathe in really deep so the scarf rises like a mountain, then really slowly so it barely moves (1 min).
4. Sitting up, hold the scarf by a corner in front of your mouth and make it dance with a long, gentle breath (1 min).
5. Get up slowly, fold the scarf in four and put it in the basket (1 min).

Rules

• Lie in your own spot without touching anyone.
• Breathe slowly through your nose.
• The scarf goes on your tummy, never on your face.
• Blow gently, like you don't want to blow out a candle.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the child does it sitting or reclined, with the scarf on tummy or chest.
• Visual impairment: the child rests a hand on the scarf to feel it rise and fall.
• Autism: the child can choose a slightly heavier scarf or a fabric beanbag, which feels more calming.

Learning goals

• Bring activation down after exercise.
• Become aware of belly breathing.
• Control the strength of their breath.

Equipment for a class of 25

• fabric scarves: 25
• soft music

Teacher tip

Lower your voice and the lights before starting. If someone giggles while blowing, let it be for a moment: laughing relaxes too, and they settle down on their own.

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