Calm Down Box

• Box, bin or basket

• Sensory bottle (I make mine with materials I purchase at the dollar store)

• Stress balls

• No mess coloring book (Melissa and Doug is our favorite)

• Feelings book

• Clappers

• Slinky

I used this time to introduce Theodore to tools in which will help him with his emotions. “Calm Down” boxes can include anything! I prefer a sensory bottle (or two), some kind of ball to squeeze, a “silly toy” (I have clappers), a quiet toy or activity and a slinky (something new).

All of these things only come out when he is feeling upset. This makes them “special” and different enough that it catches his attention each time.

I introduced these (once) before he actually started using this box so when I took it would he would know what each item was for and how to use it.

I noticed Theo makes the squeezing motion when he is upset (stress ball) and likes to watch things (sensory bottle). He does well with a silly distraction (clappers) and likes to do art (no mess coloring book-the best in case he is still upset and throws it---makes NO mess; it’s just water).

This is one of those moments that is benefitted from observing your child (you’ll know how to help them best in these circumstances.)

If you know how they react to certain situations and what they like and what the react best to, putting this box together will be a breeze!

This is great in helping your little one with their feelings and will help you when they are feeling certain ways.