Creating a Calm Down Kit for Your Anxious Child

Every parent knows the struggle of trying to soothe an anxious child. Anxiety is not just an adult issue—it affects children too, often in ways we can’t immediately see.

In order to help your child manage their anxiety and find a sense of calm, one effective strategy is to create a “calm down kit”. A calm down kit is a collection of items and activities specifically selected to help your child calm themselves when they are feeling overwhelmed or anxious.

In our calm down kit toolbox, we’ll cover everything you need to create a calm down kit for your anxious child.

Add Sensory Items for Stimulation

Sensory calm down box items can help your child redirect their focus and find comfort in tactile experiences. Consider adding stress balls, squishy toys, or fidget spinners to your calm down kit. These items can provide a physical outlet for your child’s anxious energy.

Mindfulness Tools Help Children Relax

Mindfulness can be a powerful tool for managing anxiety. Include items that promote mindfulness and relaxation in your child’s kit. This could include a small journal or sketchbook for guided drawing, coloring books, or a gratitude journal. These activities encourage your child to focus on the present moment and engage in calming, mindful practices.

Include Cards that Encourage Breathing Exercises

Teaching your child deep breathing techniques can be incredibly helpful in managing their anxiety. Include a set of breathing exercises or visual aids in the calm box. This might include a small handheld fan to practice slow, controlled breaths or calm down strategies cards with different breathing techniques. Encourage your child to take deep breaths whenever they feel overwhelmed.

Comfort Items Make a Huge Difference

Everyone has their go-to comfort items when they need to unwind. Find out what makes your child feel safe and secure and include those items in the calm box. It could be a favorite stuffed animal, a soft blanket, or a special scented lotion. These items can provide a sense of familiarity and help your child relax.

Use Age-Appropriate Calming Activities

Include calming activities in the calm box that your child enjoys. This could be a puzzle, a deck of cards for solitaire, or a mini Lego set. The goal is to provide your child with activities that distract them from their anxiety and allow them to focus their mind on something enjoyable.

Activity books are usd as a popular calming tool for anxious kids. Include a few activity books in your calm down kit, such as word searches, mazes, or crossword puzzles. These types of puzzles engage your child’s mind and can help redirect their thoughts away from their anxiety.

In today’s digital age, many children find comfort and distraction in technology. If your child enjoys playing games or using apps on a tablet or smartphone, consider adding a portable electronic device to their calm down kit. Load it with calming apps, guided meditation, or relaxing music that can help soothe their anxious mind.

Visual and Auditory Aids Can Stimulate the Senses

Some children find comfort in visual and auditory stimulation. Consider including visual tools such as a small lava lamp, or auditory tools such as a mini Bluetooth speaker for playing soothing music, or a set of noise-canceling headphones. These items can create a calming environment and distract from any external stressors.

Calming Scents

Scents have a powerful impact on our emotions and can help create a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Consider adding calming scents to your child’s calm down kit. This could include essential oils such as lavender or chamomile, a scented candle, or even a small sachet filled with dried lavender or other soothing herbs. Encourage your child to inhale the calming scents whenever they need to relax.

Three Top Tips for Maximum Impact

Building the calm down kit is the first step. The second step is making sure the child wants to use it and knows how to use it as well. So here are three top tips to help you get the most out of your child’s calm down kit:

Choosing a Container

Choosing a box to to hold all the items is a matter of personal preference. This could be a small box, a pencil case, or even a fabric pouch. The important thing is that it’s easily accessible and portable, so your child can bring it with them wherever they go.

Personalize the Calm Down Kit

Every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Take the time to personalize your child’s calm down kit, tailoring it to their specific needs and preferences. Pay attention to their interests, hobbies, and favorite colors, and include items that reflect their personality. This personal touch can make the kit feel more special and inviting to your child.

Teach Your Child How to Use the Calm Down Kit

Lastly, it’s essential to teach your child how to use their calm down kit effectively. Spend some time with them, demonstrating different techniques and activities they can engage in when they start to feel anxious. Show them how to use their comfort items, how to play the calming activities, and how to use technology in a healthy and calming way. Encourage them to practice using the calm down kit during times when they are not feeling anxious, so they become familiar with its contents and how to use them.

Creating a Calm Down Kit Today

Creating a calm environment for your kids is essential for their well-being and emotional development. By incorporating the right products and strategies, you can help them navigate difficult moments with greater ease.

Remember to consider their individual needs and preferences when choosing products. Whether it’s incorporating relaxing scents and guided imagery, providing tactile comfort and support, or addressing poor choices and upset behavior, there are various tools and techniques available to help keep your kids calm.

The right calm down kit can equip your children with valuable resources to manage their emotions and promote a sense of control. It’s important to remember that these products are not magic solutions, but rather tools that can support your child’s emotional well-being and resilience.

To learn more about anxiety, keep reading!