Early Childhood Soundscapes

Gentle Sound Immersion and Mindfulness Tools For

● Calming the nervous system.

● Reducing anxiety.

● Increasing focus.

● Improving sleep.

● Self-Regulation.

● Healing at the cellular level.

“Child Friendly” Soundscape Sessions

If your child has ADHD, cognitive learning challenges, physical, sensory or behavioral challenges, anxiety/depression, these soundscape sessions are tailored to their specific needs and offer many benefits.

Children can experience the benefits of sound healing without needing to actively focus on the sounds or feeling any pressure to sit still. The healing process primarily relies on the vibrations and energy being absorbed by the body, which can occur naturally without conscious attention. The vibrations and frequencies are gently received throughout the mind and body, allowing for a natural, harmonizing response.

The sessions are designed to be both engaging and comforting, offering a welcoming, nurturing environment for both children and parents. Some children prefer to create a “nest” of blankets, pillows and cushions in their “safe place” like a tent or enclosed area they love. Others may choose to engage in calm activities such as coloring, crafting, puzzles, exploring books, or cuddling with you. See the “Helpful Tips” section below for ideas on how to create your child’s cozy, sensory nesting space!

Session Goals:

Creating Calm: Soothing the nervous system, improving focus, sleep, pain management and illness.
Children’s Guided Imagery and Meditation: As a certified specialist in children’s guided imagery and mindfulness meditation, Kristen offers thoughtfully selected meditative experiences tailored for young minds. These sessions are designed to work closely with the soundscapes to soothe the “monkey mind,” enhance creativity, improve focus, and foster a sense of calm. Whether your child embarks on a journey into nature, explores self-compassion and empathy, or develops concentration through body scans and somatic awareness, Kristen intuitively guides them towards a more serene state. With you by their side, your child will enjoy a nurturing and supportive environment that encourages inner peace and personal growth.
Mindfulness Literature: Under Kristen’s guidance, your child will explore a thoughtfully curated book that delves into mindfulness and self-regulation. The selection includes a range of topics tailored for children, such as calming the nervous system, identifying emotions, fostering empathy, nurturing self-compassion, and building confidence through self-control and self-awareness. Additionally, these readings incorporate an understanding of the science behind behaviors and thought processes.
Breathing Exercises and Somatic Healing: Many people have heard of counting breaths, breathing boxes and even belly breathing for adults and children. Kristen brings a new perspective to the idea of the breath and self-regulation. There are so many components to breathing and while counting breaths work well, having full awareness of the breath and how it works in the body is essential to actually creating the “Relaxation Response.” Feeling and sensing where the breath is, how it’s moving, and how the body changes as it responds to breathing will allow more sustainable results.

Dr. Herbert Benson’s Relaxation Response

“The Relaxation Response is essentially the opposite reaction to the “fight or flight” response. According to Dr. Benson, using the Relaxation Response is beneficial, as it counteracts the physiological effects of stress and the fight or flight response.”

Helpful Tips: Creating a Sensory Nest

Soft Lighting: Use dimmable lamps or fairy lights to create a calm atmosphere. Avoid harsh overhead lighting.
Comfortable Textures: Provide soft blankets, pillows, and bean bags for cuddling and comfort.
Quiet Corner: Designate a specific spot in the house as a cozy corner, filled with cushions and soft toys.
Calm Colors: Use soft, neutral, or pastel colors on walls and decorations to create a soothing environment.
Nature Elements: Incorporate indoor plants to bring a sense of serenity and a bit of nature indoors.
Essential Oils or Scents: Use a diffuser with calming scents like lavender or chamomile, ensuring the child is not allergic or sensitive to these.
Sound Machine: Consider using white, brown or pink noise machines or playing gentle music or nature sounds (green noise) to create a soothing auditory environment.
Personalized Space: Involve the child in choosing decorations or arranging the space to make it feel like their own safe haven.
Sensory Toys and Tools: Offer sensory objects like stress balls, fidget toys, weighted blankets or stuffed animals to help with self-regulation.
Art Supplies: Provide materials for creative expression through drawing, coloring, or crafting as a form of relaxation. Offer a variety of drawing tools.
Books and Reading Nooks: Set up a small library corner with a comfy chair or a reading tent filled with their favorite books.
No Tech Zone: Limit screens in this restful area to reduce stimuli that could increase anxiety.
Soft Surfaces: Use rugs or play mats to provide soft areas for sitting and quiet play.