Gloopus the Snail and the Mud Bath, is a gentle, engaging relaxation story for kids. I created this story to help children to think about how to slow down and notice. It includes sensory rich details, fun relaxation techniques and gratitude practice. All set in a forest with a little snail called Gloopus.
Gloopus the Snail – Relaxation Story Kit
Using my Listen, Relax and Create approach, you can have fun supporting your kids to relax through stories and creativity. You’ll find each step in detail below with links to resources and fun activity suggestions.
See more about my Listen, Relax and Create approach here: Teaching Kids Relaxation Skills Through Stories & Creativity.
Listen – Engage the Imagination
Gloopus maybe a little snail, but he teaches kids the beauty of slowing down. He shows them how to notice their surroundings and find joy in the moment.
Listen to the story below and buy the script here, so you can read it aloud together.
Relax – Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Skills
As Gloopus slides through the story, he introduces relaxation techniques.Try these three snail themed activities alongside.
My printable kit includes relaxation activity flash cards.
1. Relax with the Chocolate Body Scan
Gloopus encourages children to imagine their bodies being warmed by the sun. With each body part relaxing and melting like chocolate.
How to do the Chocolate Body Scan:
To begin we imagine our body is made of chocolate. then we slowly think about each part of our bodies (like our toes, legs, arms, and face). Then we imagine the chocolate being melted by the warm sun and becoming soft.
Read more here and get a full free printable script – Chocolate Body Scan: A Fun Meditation for Kids {Free Printable}
How can the Chocolate Body Scan help kids relax:
- It can bring awareness to the body
- It can slow down busy brains
- It can support emotional regulation
- It’s playful and imaginative
2. Blow Colour Bubble Breaths
Gloopus teaches children to take deep breaths, imagining they are blowing bubbles filled with different colors.
How to take a Bubble Breath:
Try out my relax with Bubble Breaths + Free Guided Imagery Track
Bonus Idea: Also try using a bottle of bubbles and practice blowing the bubbles. Then watch them as they float away. Noticing all the colours.
3. Try Slow Snail Breathing.
This engaging shape breathing activity encourages children to practice slowing down using touch and the breath.
How to try slow snail breathing:
Read more here and also get a free printable poster that gives a visual aid to guide children. Slow Snail Breathing Activity { + Free Printable}
Create – Relax through Creativity
Combining creativity with relaxation story and techniques, consolidates the learning in a calming, fun and memorable way. Below are some fun suggests that you can try out! You can also find some other activities as part of my printable kit to use alongside this activity.
Try these three snail themed creative activities alongside the Gloopus the Snail relaxation story.
1. Create a Snail Sanctuary
Make a relaxing play-dough snail sanctuary. This activity combines nature, sensory and imaginative play. If you don’t want to make your own play-dough I love this set!
2. Bake Chocolate Snail Shells
This recipe combines melting chocolate and the creating the spiral shape of a snail shell. In this activity you can reflect on the melting chocolate body scan and the bonus snail breathing activity. I’ve also included a mindful eating activity to use afterwards, to slow down and enjoy your creation together! (COMING SOON!)
3. Make Bubble Wands and Blow Bubbles
Make a bubble wand together and notice all the colours in each bubble. Check out this Easy Paper Bubble Wand {+ Bubble Recipe}. I also love these giant bubble wand kits, they are so much fun!
4. Move like a Snail
Head out for a walk in nature and slow down like a snail. Take a mindful nature walk and notice your surroundings. Get creative and playful and try a nature scavenger hunt as you walk. Try out this DIY Colour Walk Adventure Kit
