Sometimes you’ll need a quick way to help your child calm down and you don’t have much with you. Maybe it’s when you’re out at Target or stuck in traffic. These tips will come in handy at those times:
Imagine your favorite place - it’s like taking a mini vacation wherever you are
Think of your favorite things
Name animals alphabetically (alligator, bear, cow, dog, etc…)
Squeeze Something (play dough, clay, silly putty, your fists, a stress ball)
Get a Cold Drink of Water
-5 things I can See
-4 things I can Touch
-3 things I can Hear
-2 things I can Smell
-1 thing I can Taste
Give yourself a hug - squeeze tight!
Remember the words to a song you love
People usually roll their eyes initially when they hear “breathing is important”. But I will continue to say it and explain why. It’s so simple, yet has such a big impact on your body’s physiology.
When you and calm and relaxed, your body is in “rest and digest” mode. You breathe normally, your heart rate is lower and your muscles are relaxed. However, when stress or anxiety or anger occurs, your body automatically switches into “flight, fight or freeze” mode. Your muscles tense up, your heart rate increases and your breathing becomes more shallow.
Taking deep breaths, instead of shallow breaths, is one way to tell your body to get back to resting and digesting. That’s why deep breathing is important!
Luckily, there are some fun ways to teach kids deep breathing techniques