The most powerful way to instill a love for language and an awareness of health in young children is to help them use specific words as cues for mindfulness. Mindfulness is simply paying attention, noticing new things, drawing distinctions, and shifting perspectives. It is the very essence of fun, and all children have a natural tendency to be mindful. Thats how we learn from the time we are infants!

As children reach the age of three or so, they become fascinated by words and the sounds they can make. As a parent, you can significantly boost your childs linguistic intelligence by pointing out certain words whenever they pop up in conversation or even on TV or radio.

For example, you might choose the word crunchy as your secret word. Turn it into a game, much like Slug Bug!that road trip challenge to be the first to notice any Volkswagen bugs. You want to help your child notice your secret word, and celebrate the fact that they noticed it.

Whenever they hear the word crunchy they simply say, Thats crunchy! From there, let them notice what kind of crunchy it is. Like celery? Like chips? Like an apple? Is it juicy crunchy or salty crunchy of sweet crunchy? This helps your child build important connections and draws their attention to the subtle differences that can be found in crunchy foods. Its an engaging and entertaining way to have an ongoing discussion about nutrition!

You can adjust the words depending on the age, language skills and interest of your child. Other suggestions for secret words include: fruity, juicy, chewy, tender, mouth-watering, or bite-sized. Don't be afraid to introduce a word that might be above their level, especially if it's fun to say. Why not try "succulent" or "luscious"?

Playing the secret word game is a fun way to focus on food, and you'll find yourself becoming more aware of delicious words, too!

Yummy.

Maya Talisman Frost

Maya Talisman Frost calls herself "the Mind Masseuse"--just for fun. She has taught thousands of people how to pay attention.

Through her company, Real-World Mindfulness Training, she offers fun, creative and powerful eyes-wide-open alternatives to meditation. Trained in mediation and conflict resolution, Maya has a degree in psychology and Asian studies, certification in mind/body fitness, a passion for neuroscience, and a 30-year meditation practice.

Maya recognizes that meditation, though extremely beneficial, doesn't appeal to everyone, and she zeroes in on the concept that we can develop greater mindfulness in a number of creative ways. She focuses on multiple intelligences theory--the idea that we are smart in eight different areas--and offers all kinds of tips and techniques to make mindfulness FUN.

Yes, FUN. No need to get so darn serious, she says. We were truly mindful as children, and we don't have to try so hard or take ourselves so seriously. The secret? Recognizing that mindfulness is the very essence of fun, and learning how to create awareness using the very activities that captivate us naturally.

So, if you're not into sitting still, staying silent, or closing your eyes, don't worry. There are literally HUNDREDS of ways for you to develop greater awareness and pay attention to what matters most. All you need is a reminder to play with mindfulness.

Maya lives with her family in Mazatlan, Mexico, where she happily meets clients from around the world. She offers ebooks and ecourses guaranteed to help you become calm, clear and creative. She also trains clients through phone sessions and customized "playshops" held in various locations around the world.

Are YOU ready to play? Just click on the link below.

How to Remove Dog Urine in 4 Easy Steps

Lawn Mowers -- A Simple Invention That Saves A Great Deal Of Time

Tilapia

Invite Spring Early - Grow in Your Basement

Home Birth Is A No-Brainer

Valuable Equine Websites ? Complete Guides for Horse Enthusiasts

Shih Tzu - The Importance Of Reward During Obedience Training

Where to go out with toddlers