Breathing exercises lesson plan for preschoolers

Teachers & homeschoolers · Lesson plan · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What grade band is this breathing exercises lesson plan designed for?

This lesson plan is created specifically for preschoolers aged 3 to 5 years. At this stage, children are beginning to recognize their emotions but need adult guidance to manage feelings such as frustration, excitement, or anxiety. The plan suits both classroom and homeschooling settings and is designed to accommodate group activities or one-on-one instruction. Since preschoolers have short attention spans, the whole lesson lasts about 15 to 20 minutes and is broken into short, engaging segments. The exercises use simple language and interactive methods appropriate for this age, such as pretending to blow up balloons or imitating animal sounds. This foundation helps prepare children for more structured mindfulness skills as they grow older.

What are the learning objectives and timing for this lesson plan?

The lesson focuses on four main learning objectives for preschoolers:

• Recognize what breathing is and understand that it can help them feel calm.
• Practice at least two simple breathing exercises to manage emotions.
• Identify moments when breathing can help (e.g., feeling upset or excited).
• Begin building self-regulation skills by paying attention to their breath.

The suggested timing for the lesson is:

This structure is flexible for preschool settings and allows for repetition or extension if needed.

What materials are needed for the lesson?

All materials are common household or classroom items, requiring no extra preparation or printouts:

• A quiet space with room for children to sit or lie down comfortably.
• Cushions, mats, or carpeted floor space for comfort.
• A lightweight scarf or small cloth to visualize slow breathing if available.
• A small balloon or an imaginary balloon to demonstrate breathing.
• A puppet or stuffed animal to guide animal breath exercises.
• A simple timer or clock (optional, to time breathing counts).

These items help make the lesson tactile and interactive, supporting preschoolers’ sensory learning styles.

How should breathing be introduced to preschool children?

Begin by explaining breathing in very simple, concrete terms. Use language like:

• “Breathing is the way air moves in and out of your body.”
• “When we take deep breaths, it helps our body feel calm and happy.”
• “You can feel your breathing by putting your hands on your belly and watching it go up and down.”

Demonstrate by placing your own hands on your belly and slowly breathing in and out, saying aloud, “See how my tummy goes up when I breathe in? And down when I breathe out?” Invite children to try the same. Using the balloon as a prop, say, “Imagine you are filling this balloon with air when you breathe in, and slowly letting the air out when you breathe out.” This visual helps children understand the mechanics of breathing.

What are the detailed steps for the main breathing exercises?

Lead children through these two fun and simple exercises, explaining each step clearly and encouraging participation:

Balloon Breath Exercise

1. Have children sit cross-legged or lie on their backs with hands on their bellies.
2. Hold up the balloon or pretend balloon.
3. Say, “Let’s take a big breath in through our nose, like we’re filling the balloon with air. Count to three slowly — 1, 2, 3.”
4. Then say, “Now, let’s blow the air out slowly through our mouths, like we’re letting the balloon get smaller. Count to three again — 1, 2, 3.”
5. Repeat this 4 to 5 times, reminding children to feel their bellies rise and fall.
6. Use soothing, calm voice tones and slow pacing.

Animal Breath Exercises

Introduce two playful animal breaths to keep children engaged:

• Bunny Breath: “Let’s take three quick sniffing breaths through our noses like a bunny’s nose twitching. Sniff, sniff, sniff! Then breathe out slowly.”
• Lion’s Breath: “Take a big breath in through your nose, then open your mouth wide, stick out your tongue, and roar like a lion while you breathe out.”

Demonstrate each breath, then encourage children to copy. These exercises combine controlled breathing with movement and sound, making them memorable and enjoyable.

What discussion questions help deepen children’s understanding?

After the breathing practice, ask simple questions that encourage children to notice and express how they feel:

• “How did your tummy feel when you took big breaths?”
• “What did you like about the balloon breath or the animal breaths?”
• “Can you think of a time when you might want to use these breaths?”
• “Did anyone feel different after we did the breathing?”

Use open-ended questions and give children time to respond. Affirm all answers and gently guide the conversation to highlight how breathing helps with calming down or feeling happy.

How can understanding be assessed or confirmed at the end of the lesson?

Assessment for preschoolers should be informal and observational. Use this quick checklist:

• Ask each child to show how to do one breathing exercise.
• Have children place their hands on their bellies and demonstrate the breath movement.
• Invite children to say a word about how they feel after the breathing (for example, “calm,” “happy,” “quiet”).
• Observe children’s comfort and enthusiasm to participate.

This simple exit ticket approach highlights who is confident with the exercises and who may need more practice or encouragement.

How can homeschoolers tailor or extend this lesson?

Parents or caregivers teaching at home can adapt the lesson by:

• Practicing breathing exercises multiple times a week to build habit.
• Using storytelling with breathing pauses, such as pretending to blow out candles or blowing bubbles.
• Introducing household objects like feathers to watch float while breathing to visualize breath control.
• Adding gentle stretching or yoga poses paired with breathing for children who benefit from movement.
• Adjusting the pace or complexity depending on the child’s mood, energy, or interest level.
• Encouraging older siblings to join, which promotes family mindfulness.

These options make the lesson flexible and responsive to individual children’s needs.

How does a breathing exercises lesson plan for adults differ?

Adults generally practice breathing exercises with longer, slower breaths and more detailed explanations of how breath affects the nervous system. Techniques like box breathing or diaphragmatic breathing focus on stress reduction and improving focus. Adults benefit from journaling or reflection combined with breathing practice. For teachers or homeschoolers working with adults, lesson plans include more time for discussion and physiological understanding. See related resources on box breathing lesson plans and breathing exercises for parents for examples tailored to adults.

Frequently asked questions

How often should preschoolers practice breathing exercises to see benefits?

Practicing breathing exercises two to three times weekly for 5 to 10 minutes helps preschoolers become familiar and comfortable with calming techniques. Frequent, short sessions build routine and support emotional regulation.

Can breathing exercises help preschoolers during tantrums or emotional outbursts?

Yes. Slow, intentional breathing can help calm the nervous system during moments of frustration or overwhelm. While breathing exercises don’t replace other behavioral strategies, they provide a tool to help children regain control.

What if some children are shy or reluctant to participate?

Encourage participation without pressure. Offer options like watching first, practicing with a puppet, or doing the exercise quietly. Building comfort over time increases willingness to join in.

Are there any risks or safety concerns with breathing exercises for young children?

Breathing exercises are safe when done gently and slowly. Avoid fast or forceful breathing to prevent dizziness. If a child feels uncomfortable, stop and return to normal breathing.

How can teachers incorporate breathing exercises into daily routines?

Breathing exercises can be part of morning circle time, transitions between activities, or after recess. Regular practice helps children settle, focus, and manage emotions throughout the day.

What is the best way to explain why breathing helps preschoolers calm down?

Use simple phrases like “Breathing slows down our body and helps us feel happy and calm.” Pair explanations with demonstrations and playful examples to make the idea understandable and fun.