Balloon Goodbye Breath

Wellness Quick tips for Children
Written By Cynthia Skyers-Gordon

How to Use the Activity

Invite children to pretend they are blowing up a giant balloon with a slow deep breath in. Then encourage them to slowly release the air as they breathe out gently.

Teachers can guide children by saying:

  • “Blow up your balloon slowly.”

  • “Now let the air out very softly.”

Repeat several times during transitions or emotional moments.

Why This Matters

Breathing activities help children calm their nervous systems, regulate emotions, and transition more peacefully between activities. It also teaches children simple calming strategies they can begin using independently over time.

Closing Reflection

“Our breath can help our body feel calm and safe.”

Cynthia Skyers-Gordon

Dr. Cynthia Skyers-Gordon, Ed.D. is the founder of SILWELL-C (Staff-Inspired Leadership for Wellness and Calm), a wellness initiative created to empower educators, leaders, and teams to thrive from within. With more than 33 years of experience in early childhood education, from assistant teacher to director to Education Coordinator, Dr. Skyers-Gordon understands the challenges and opportunities staff face each day.

SILWELL-C was born from her belief that true wellness in schools starts with the staff themselves. By providing calm leadership strategies, practical tools, affirmations, and inspiration, SILWELL-C equips educators and leaders to create supportive, balanced environments where both staff and children can flourish.

Through workshops, consultations, and creative resources, Dr. Skyers-Gordon combines her in-depth expertise with a passion for cultivating resilience, connection, and calm in every space. Whether it’s through her upcoming Wellness Toolkit, the JamBel Storybook, or the Free Wellness Hub, she continues to design practical ways for educators and leaders to sustain their own wellness while inspiring others.

At its core, SILWELL-C is more than a program; it’s a movement: a reminder that when staff lead with wellness, schools grow with strength, calm, and confidence.

https://www.silwellc.com
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