Gen Alpha is confronted with various stressors arising out of pressure to meet academic goals, peer and parental expectations, body image issues and win acceptance on social media. Here are four apps that help children de-stress and practice mindfulness. – Kiran Balimane

Smiling Mind

Platform: Android, iOS

Age group: Children and teens (6 years and above)

Smiling Mind is a free app developed by psychologists that offers mindfulness programmes to children and teens. It provides guided meditation, stress management techniques, and activities suitable for classroom and personal use. The app aims to enhance emotional well-being and develop resilience in children.

Headspace for Teens

Platform: Android, iOS, Web

Age group: Teens (13–18 years)

Headspace offers meditation programmes designed for teenagers. Its main highlight is activities to relieve stress, enhance focus, manage anxiety and promote better sleep. The app’s intuitive design with features such as guided meditation, animations, and soundscapes engages teens. Moreover, it narrates shared experiences, making teens feel less isolated.

Moshi Kids

Platform: Android, iOS

Age group: Children (3–12 years)

Moshi Kids offers a collection of calming bedtime stories, meditation programmes, and relaxing music to help children unwind and manage anxiety. Its interactive design promotes healthy sleep patterns and emotional calmness in children. Recommended for parents looking to instill mindfulness practices in children. 

Calm

Platform: Android, iOS

Age group: Children and teens (6 years and above)

Calm provides a variety of mindfulness actvities, including guided meditation, sleep stories, and relaxation exercises designed for children and teens. While the app provides some free content, many features require a subscription. It specifically targets anxiety and sleep issues, making it a valuable resource for families aspiring to enhance mental health and well-being.