10+ Best Mindfulness Books for 10-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to introduce mindfulness to your 10-year-old? Look no further! Our carefully curated selection of mindfulness books for 10-year-olds is designed to help young minds grasp the art of living in the moment, managing emotions, and finding peace. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or caregiver, these books are a valuable tool in fostering a sense of calm and awareness in children. Keep reading to discover our top picks that promise to make mindfulness an engaging and rewarding journey for your little ones!

Fun Mindfulness Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Sitting Still Like a Frog: Mindfulness Exercises for Kids (and Their Parents) by Eline Snel, illustrated by Marc Boutavant
  • Genre(s): Mindfulness, Self-help
  • Synopsis: This book introduces simple mindfulness practices to help children deal with anxiety, improve concentration, and handle difficult emotions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a practical introduction to mindfulness tailored specifically for children, using fun and engaging exercises.
  • Perfect for: Children who are new to mindfulness and parents looking to introduce these concepts to their kids.

• I Am Peace: A Book of Mindfulness by Susan Verde, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds
  • Genre(s): Mindfulness, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: A child reflects on what it means to be present in the moment and how it helps them feel calm and happy.
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses simple, poetic language and beautiful illustrations to convey the essence of mindfulness to young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories that soothe and inspire, and anyone who needs a moment of peace.

• Mindful Monkey, Happy Panda by Lauren Alderfer, illustrated by Kerry Lee MacLean
  • Genre(s): Mindfulness, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: This book follows Monkey, who is always busy and restless, and Panda, who is calm and mindful, illustrating the benefits of living in the moment.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a delightful and accessible way to show children the contrast between a hectic life and a mindful one.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are often busy and parents who want to teach them the value of slowing down and enjoying the moment.

• Master of Mindfulness: How to Be Your Own Superhero in Times of Stress by Laurie Grossman, Mr. Musumeci's 5th Grade Class, and Angelina Alvarez
  • Genre(s): Mindfulness, Educational
  • Synopsis: Written by a teacher and her fifth-grade class, this book offers mindfulness techniques for kids to manage stress and become their own "superheroes."
  • Why we recommend this book: It's unique because it's written from the perspective of kids who actually use these techniques.
  • Perfect for: Young students and any child facing school-related stress.

• A Handful of Quiet: Happiness in Four Pebbles by Thich Nhat Hanh, illustrated by Wietske Vriezen
  • Genre(s): Mindfulness, Spirituality
  • Synopsis: This book presents a simple meditation practice that involves using four pebbles to represent different aspects of nature and personal qualities.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a tactile and visual way to understand mindfulness, making it especially appealing and accessible for children.
  • Perfect for: Kids who benefit from interactive reading experiences and those interested in nature and meditation.

Educational Mindfulness Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Mindfulness for Children by Tracy Daniel
  • Genre(s): Mindfulness, Educational
  • Synopsis: This guide helps children explore the concept of mindfulness through engaging activities and stories.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Focus, emotional regulation, stress management
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a variety of exercises that are both fun and educational, helping children understand and apply mindfulness in their daily lives.
  • Perfect for: Educators and parents looking to introduce mindfulness practices to children in an interactive way.

• Calm: Mindfulness for Kids by Wynne Kinder
  • Genre(s): Mindfulness, Self-help
  • Synopsis: The book offers mindfulness techniques and exercises designed to teach children how to manage their emotions and stay calm.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional control, relaxation techniques
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an excellent resource for children to learn how to deal with various emotions and stress through mindfulness.
  • Perfect for: Children who experience anxiety or stress and need effective strategies to cope.

• Breathe Like a Bear by Kira Willey, illustrated by Anni Betts
  • Genre(s): Mindfulness, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: This collection of mindfulness exercises is designed to teach kids how to control their breathing and emotions through simple, short practices.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Breathing techniques, attention span
  • Why we recommend this book: It's accessible and engaging, with each exercise illustrated to help children visualize and understand the practice better.
  • Perfect for: Young children needing an introduction to mindfulness and parents seeking quick, effective mindfulness practices for their kids.

• The Lemonade Hurricane: A Story of Mindfulness and Meditation by Licia Morelli, illustrated by Jennifer E. Morris
  • Genre(s): Mindfulness, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: The book tells the story of Henry, a boy who is often likened to a hurricane, and his sister, who teaches him how to sit still and meditate.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Meditation, self-awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses a relatable story to explain meditation and mindfulness in a way that is easy for children to understand and apply.
  • Perfect for: Children who are energetic and spontaneous, and parents who want to introduce them to the calming effects of meditation.

Challenging Mindfulness Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Mindfulness Matters: A Guide to Mastering Your Mind by Pax Tandon
  • Genre(s): Mindfulness, Self-help
  • Synopsis: This book offers a deep dive into mindfulness techniques and the science behind how they help control emotions and thoughts.
  • Why this book is challenging: It includes advanced scientific explanations and psychological concepts that are usually not covered in children's books.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a thorough understanding of mindfulness, encouraging kids to think critically about how their mind works.
  • Perfect for: Advanced young readers interested in psychology and the science of the mind.

• The Mindful Dragon: A Dragon Book about Mindfulness by Steve Herman
  • Genre(s): Mindfulness, Fantasy, Children’s Fiction
  • Synopsis: A young child encounters a dragon who teaches him the importance and techniques of being mindful through adventures.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative intertwines fantasy elements with practical mindfulness exercises, requiring readers to engage deeply with both the story and its lessons.
  • Why we recommend this book: It creatively integrates mindfulness with a captivating fantasy story, making the learning process fun and memorable.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love fantasy and adventure stories but are also ready to learn about self-awareness and control.

• Quiet Power: The Secret Strengths of Introverted Kids by Susan Cain
  • Genre(s): Mindfulness, Self-help, Psychology
  • Synopsis: This book explores the strengths of introverted children and teaches them how to harness these traits through mindfulness and self-reflection.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into psychological concepts and encourages introspection and personal growth, which are advanced for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It empowers introverted kids, helping them recognize their unique qualities and how to use mindfulness to thrive.
  • Perfect for: Introverted or quieter children who might benefit from understanding and embracing their inner strengths.

• Mindful Me: Mindfulness and Meditation for Kids by Whitney Stewart
  • Genre(s): Mindfulness, Health
  • Synopsis: This book guides children through the practice of mindfulness and meditation, teaching them how to use these tools to manage stress and emotions.
  • Why this book is challenging: It not only introduces mindfulness exercises but also encourages kids to apply these techniques in various aspects of their lives, which requires discipline and understanding.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a comprehensive guide that equips children with lifelong skills to handle stress and emotions effectively.
  • Perfect for: Children looking to develop a deeper understanding of mindfulness and how to apply it daily.

• Everyday Mindfulness for OCD: Tips, Tricks, and Skills for Living Joyfully by Jon Hershfield MFT and Shala Nicely LPC
  • Genre(s): Mindfulness, Health, Self-help
  • Synopsis: Specifically designed for children dealing with OCD, this book offers mindfulness-based strategies to help manage the disorder.
  • Why this book is challenging: It addresses complex mental health issues and provides detailed strategies for coping, which are typically more advanced topics for children.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's highly beneficial for children dealing with OCD, providing them with effective tools and techniques to improve their quality of life.
  • Perfect for: Kids struggling with OCD or anxiety who need specialized strategies to manage their condition.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 10-year-old dive into the world of mindfulness through reading, you've come to the right place. Here are some simple exercises that can make reading not just a habit but a joy. These activities are designed to enhance focus, comprehension, and the overall experience of reading mindfulness books.

• Set a Daily Reading Time
  • What it is: Dedicate a specific time each day for reading.
  • How it helps: Establishes a routine, making reading a regular part of the day.
  • Tips: Choose a quiet time when distractions are minimal, like right before bed or after breakfast.

• Create a Cozy Reading Nook
  • What it is: Set up a special place in the home dedicated to reading.
  • How it helps: Makes reading a special and enjoyable activity.
  • Tips: Let your child personalize the space with comfy cushions, favorite toys, or posters.

• Book Themed Art Projects
  • What it is: Create art projects based on themes or scenes from the mindfulness books.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and retention of the book’s themes.
  • Tips: Use a variety of materials like drawing, painting, or sculpting to keep things fun and engaging.

• Discussion Time
  • What it is: Set aside time to discuss what was read.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and gives the child a chance to express their thoughts.
  • Tips: Ask open-ended questions that encourage your child to think deeply about the reading.

• Pair Reading with Mindfulness Exercises
  • What it is: Combine reading sessions with simple mindfulness exercises like breathing techniques or meditation.
  • How it helps: Enhances focus and allows the child to practice mindfulness in context.
  • Tips: Keep mindfulness sessions short and simple, focusing on relaxing and enjoying the moment.

Implementing these exercises can turn reading from a chore into a delightful adventure that not only entertains but also educates. Encourage your child to explore different books and find what truly captures their interest. Happy reading!