Emotional regulation skills help kids adapt to situations where things don’t go exactly as they planned, where they might feel overstimulated or disappointed, or when other big emotions bubble up.
Activities that get kids out of their heads and into their bodies can help them practice transforming their emotions, teaching them to recognize, assess, and regulate their emotional reactions as they continue to learn about themselves!
You can download this resource HERE.
Shake it Out
Whether it’s the sillies, the saddies, or the crazies, sometimes you just need to get it out.
Tell your kids they have 30 seconds to wiggle, shake, jump, run around, or otherwise be a little wild. Set a timer or count out loud, and when the 30 seconds are up, everyone stops and takes a big deep breath together.
Follow the Leader
When kids look on the verge of being overwhelmed, help them pause and reassess with a change of scenery.
You lead first. Walk around the house or take your kids outside, parading around while making the silliest, wackiest movements you can think of, which they have to mimic. Throw some funny songs or noises in there, too! Then, have your kids take the lead.
Bake “Get Out the Mad” Cookies
Kneading and pounding on clay, playdough, or even cookie dough is a way to talk through and move through feelings like anger and frustration. Use these ingredients to bake a batch with your kids! Make these together when they’re feeling low, or any time you want to talk about feelings and how to handle them.
- 3 cups oatmeal
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups butter or margarine
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
Bake at 350° for 10-12 minutes!