Relaxation is important for our mental health. It can be as simple as listening to music or quiet time reading a book. Some children and young people find it quite easy to relax. For others, relaxation needs to be learned and practised.

Some everyday ways children and young people can choose to relax include:

  • chilling out in their bedroom
  • drawing or colouring
  • connecting on social media
  • listening to music
  • gaming
  • spending time with family
  • playing with toys or pets
  • reading
  • having a bubble bath or long shower
  • streaming TV shows/movies
  • hanging out with friends
  • playing sports or going for a walk

There are also lots of relaxation exercises that children and young people can try. Relaxation exercises can help us feel calm and help manage the physical and emotional responses to our feelings. Everyone is different and so different exercises will feel relaxing to different people. Support children and young people to try some out, to see what feels best for them. It can take a little while to settle into relaxation exercises, so encourage them to take their time before deciding if it "works" for them.

BBC CBeebies - Help your child to chill out

BBC CBeebies - Daydreams

Cosmic Kids Yoga - Guided relaxation videos for kids

MoodCafe - Relaxation exercises for teenagers and Relaxation exercises for children

Childline - Calm Zone

There are also lots of apps to support relaxation, for example Smiling Mind, Insight Timer, Calm, Chill Panda.