Practicing Mindfulness: Emma Lou the Yorkie Poo’s Activity and Coloring Book for Kids

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, less than half of children with a significant mental disorder get the treatment they need. Kids continue to grapple with the effects of the pandemic’s isolation and loss, some without tools to manage the stress. With that in mind, I encountered Kim Larkins’ coloring and activity book, “Practicing Mindfulness,” and it left me excited and buoyed. The work provides an engaging introduction to mindfulness and mental hygiene for young children.

The book follows Emma Lou the Yorkie Poo and her friends as they support each other through strong feelings. The cuddly characters walk through evidence-based tools like STAR breathing and a body sensations exercise. In the process, they introduce mental wellness concepts like gratitude, self-acceptance, and generosity. The dialog is clear and accessible for young readers, but caregivers would find joining the activities an enjoyable way to model a healthy lifestyle.

I appreciated that Larkins included valuable concepts and techniques in a coloring book, given that coloring is a relaxing form of leisure. Her games and puzzles are more exciting and help cement learning through repetition. As a clinical practice tool, “Practicing Mindfulness” is a lighthearted way to introduce deep concepts. As a weekend enrichment activity, it is a gift that can provide a foundation for mental health over the lifespan.