From toddlers to older children, every child, parent, and teacher can benefit from having the tools and strategies to help when a child needs calming. Whether it be from sensory overload, trouble with emotional regulation, or the all too common toddler tantrums, there are many strategies and tools that can be implemented to help a child regulate those difficult emotions. 

It is imperative to remember that behaviors are a form of communication, and giving these tools can give the child another piece to the puzzle when it comes to understanding their own needs and expressing those needs with the world.

7 strategies you can use

1. A calm down corner

A calm down corner can be used in a classroom or daycare as well as at home. In this corner you can include comfortable seating such as a bean bag chair or soft squishy stuffed toys and blankets. Noise canceling headphones are a great addition especially in a loud environment. You will also want to include preferred fidget and tactile toys. 

2. A weighted blanket or vest

Using a weighted blanket or vest has been known to have a relaxing effect calming anxiety or stress by providing deep touch pressure to the body. You can also make your own weighted toy by filling a sock with rice or beans and adding some essential oils into the mix for added bonus!

We also love this weighted teddy bear from Amazon! Easy to take with you on the go.

3. Oral sensory input

For some children, chewing can be calming and aid in self-regulation. Crunchy foods such as apple slices and celery, and drinking smoothies through a straw can be a great option. Other ideas include Sensory Chew Necklaces and Toys.

4. Movement

For some children who crave vestibular input, an indoor or outdoor swing can quickly calm big feelings. Rhythmic bouncing or side to side movement on a large ball or peanut can have the same benefit. 

5. Yoga

Yoga teaches deep breathing, relaxation, and mindfulness reducing stress and anxiety. Yoga is a favorite hobby of mine, as I was a yoga instructor before getting into the pediatric therapy world!! I use it on a daily basis in my sessions from intentional breathing, working on good posture, and using the whole body approach to calm a child’s nervous system during a meltdown. Some or our favorite YouTube channels for yoga are Cosmic Kids Yoga and Yoga With Adriene.

6. Music and videos

Music and videos of a preferred choice can help calm an episode or prevent an episode from occurring in the first place.

7. Moving into a different room

Sometimes all it takes is going into another room, turning off the lights, and reducing the noise. Some children can become overstimulated due to noise, lights, and smells. Removing the stimulus can often be enough to calm the episode.

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Co-contributor: Helen Sarver