Count on This! The 10-Second Hum
Humming for 10 seconds or more can help both children and adults calm their minds and bodies.
Did you know humming is naturally relaxing?
Humming makes vibrations in our throat. The vibrations activate a nerve that carries signals from the brain to the body. This nerve, called the vagus nerve, helps us to soothe ourselves and calm our bodies after we’ve been in stressful situations, so we can better manage big feelings.
In moments of emotional distress, when we’re the most concerned about children’s emotional well-being, a strategy like this may offer children some short-term relief. Share this video with children and try humming along with The Count and his potato friend together (it can be to any tune or just a humming sound).
Then, in challenging moments in the future (perhaps when children are feeling frustrated, angry, worried, nervous, or even over-excited), invite children to join you in humming, singing, or “buzzing” like a bee (these activities all create vibrations in the throat). Help them notice how they feel afterward.
We’re Connected
Watch this video to discover habits to support digital well-being for families.
Watch and Play: Abby's Magical Beasties
Watch this episode and explore ways to extend the learning at home.
Unplugged: Creating Device-Free Family Moments
When children and grown-ups spend time together, especially without media, children benefit in so many ways. Explore these tips to nurture meaningful moments and support digital well-being in your family.
Watch and Play: Abby's Magical Dragons
Watch this episode and explore ways to extend the learning at home.
Watch and Play: Elmo's Awesome Bike
Watch this episode and explore ways to extend the learning at home.
Watch and Play: Elmo and The Great Cookie Stack
Watch this episode and explore ways to extend the learning at home.
Using Your Words
A coloring page helping children explore words for big feelings.
