Deep Breathing Puzzles for Kids - 8 Printable Puzzles To Teach Deep Breathing

A playful, engaging printable activity that encourages children to practise six intentional deep breaths while completing a simple puzzle.

Turn emotional regulation into a hands-on, sensory experience with this guided deep breathing puzzle activity!

Our Deep Breathing Puzzle Printable transforms breathwork into a playful activity, helping children learn that emotional regulation doesn't have to be boring! Designed specifically for educators and mental health professionals, this printable resource supports children in slowing down their nervous system while completing a simple puzzle challenge.

Each puzzle naturally guides six deep breaths, making regulation measurable, achievable, and engaging.

About This Resource

This resource includes 8 printable breathing puzzles designed to encourage mindful breathing through focus.

Each puzzle is paired with a breathing mat layout featuring:

• “Breathe In” prompt on the left

• “Breathe Out” prompt on the right

Children pick up a puzzle piece on the inhale and place it down on the exhale, creating a structured rhythm of regulation.

This activity integrates:

• Bilateral movement.

• Visual focus.

• Breath control.

• Task completion satisfaction.

Perfect for:

• Classroom calm corners.

• Therapy sessions.

• Emotional regulation groups.

• One-to-one interventions.

• Transition support.

Features

• 8 fun printable puzzle designs.

• Clear visual breathing prompts.

• Structured six-breath format per puzzle.

• Easy print-and-prepare format.

• Child-friendly and visually engaging.

Benefits

Supports Nervous System Regulation: Six slow, guided breaths activate calming responses.

Encourages Focus: Combining movement with breathing enhances engagement.

Builds Emotional Regulation Skills: Children learn that breath can help them feel calmer.

Reduces Anxiety in Transitions: Ideal before tests, after playtime, or during overwhelm.

Sensory Integration: Movement and breath together support embodied regulation.

Quick and Practical: Each puzzle takes only a few minutes.

How This Resource Supports Children

This resource:

• Makes breathwork visible and tangible.

• Creates a predictable rhythm.

• Reduces resistance to breathing exercises.

• Builds positive associations with regulation.

• Encourages independent calming strategies over time.

Because the breathing is embedded within a task, children practise regulation without feeling like they are “being made to calm down.”

How to Use

1. Print our Breathing Mat and puzzles.

2. Choose a puzzle design.

3. Cut the paper in half.

4. Cut out the puzzle pieces on the right along the cut lines.

5. Mix the puzzle pieces and place them on the left side of the breathing mat (“Breathe In”).

6. Keep the right-hand side puzzle image as a visual guide if needed.

7. Instruct the child to:

   • Pick up one piece while breathing in

   • Place it in position while breathing out

8. Continue until all pieces are placed.

Your child will take six deep breaths whilst completing each puzzle.

Repeat as needed throughout the day.

The Deep Breathing Puzzle transforms regulation into an achievable, playful, embodied experience. For busy professionals, it offers a ready-to-print intervention that fits seamlessly into school routines while delivering meaningful emotional regulation practice.

Bring calm into your classroom or therapy space — download the Deep Breathing Puzzle now!