Teach Your Child Quick and Easy Calming Techniques
Is your child stressed? Are they in meltdown mode? STOP and do these two activities to help them calm down.
First, explain to your child that sometimes doing a couple activities can help people deal with stress. Have your child stand and follow your instructions. Instruct him/her to take a deep breath slowly in through the nose and out then fully out through the mouth. You may have them imagine breathing in through the nose so they can blow out candles or blow a dandelion. Demonstrate this technique so your child can see how you take time with each breath in and out. Do this five times together.
Next, tell your child to make his or her body very rigid and tight, as if the whole body is one big, straight board. Demonstrate. After your child holds this position for a few moments, say, “Now make your body very loose, like a wet dog shaking off water.” Demonstrate by loosening your body and wiggling and jiggling. Tell your child to make his or her body tight again, and loosen and jiggle. Do this a few times.
After doing these activities, ask your child if they can feel a difference. I am sure there will be some giggles and the tension will be broken!