Simple Reflection Exercises to Do With Kids

Reflection is a powerful way for kids to develop self-awareness, gratitude, and emotional intelligence — and it doesn’t have to be complicated. By carving out a few minutes each day or week, families can create meaningful conversations and help children process their feelings, experiences, and goals.

Here are some simple reflection exercises you can do together:

1. Daily Gratitude Check-In

• Ask each child to name one thing they are grateful for today.

• Keep a small notebook or jar to write down their responses.

• Optional: Let them draw a picture instead of writing.

Why it works: Gratitude helps kids focus on the positive and builds a happy mindset.

2. Highs and Lows of the Day

• Each family member shares the high point and low point of their day.

• Discuss how challenges were handled and what made the high points enjoyable.

Tip: Encourage supportive listening — no interrupting or judging.

3. Feelings Art

• Provide crayons, markers, or paints and ask kids to draw how they felt during the day or week.

• Older kids can label their emotions, while younger kids can use colors to express feelings.

Why it works: This exercise helps kids identify and express emotions creatively.

4. Mindful Minute

• Take one minute to sit quietly together, breathe deeply, and notice your surroundings.

• Afterward, ask, “What did you notice? How do you feel right now?”

Tip: Use a soft chime or timer to make it fun and consistent.

5. Story Reflection

• After reading a book or watching a movie, ask reflective questions:

  • “What would you do if you were that character?”

  • “What did you learn from the story?”

  • “How did it make you feel?”

Why it works: It encourages empathy, critical thinking, and emotional insight.

6. Weekly Reflection Journal

• At the end of the week, have kids write or draw about:

  • Something they accomplished

  • Something they want to improve

  • Something that made them happy

• Review past entries occasionally to celebrate growth.