Comfort Container
Help children take a quiet moment alone and soothe themselves.
Watch the video together. Explain that when we’ve having a big feeling, there are a lot of ways we can take care of ourselves. Big Bird uses his comfort container; talk about some of the things he has in it.
To make your own comfort container, invite children to decorate a box or bag (the size and material will depend on what you put in it; a bag like a backpack allows children to carry it from place to place). You might add:
- squeezy ball
- crayons and paper
- fidget spinner
- storybooks
- blanket
- photos of loved ones
- stuffed animal or doll
- fabrics of differing textures
- a small instrument like a kazoo
- bubble wrap to pop
- pinwheel for breathing exercise (breathe in deeply through the nose then exhale slowly out the mouth to make the pinwheel move)
When children are having a big feeling or a hard time, offer or suggest their comfort container and ask whether they’d like to spend a few minutes alone or whether they’d like you to stay with them, like Big Bird’s Granny stayed with him.
A Good Friend to Myself
Self-compassion matters… children should be as kind to themselves as they are to others!
Gratitude Jar
Highlight the power of gratitude! In tough times, help children pause, notice, and savor the feelings that the good things in our lives bring.
Helped, Heard, or Hugged?
There are so many ways to support a child in distress. You can give children a sense of control by offering three ways you may be able to help… and letting them choose.
Teaching My Brain
Compassionate self-talk can turn difficult moments around.
Mental Health Resource and Support List for Parents
If you’re concerned about—or considering seeking professional support for—your child’s emotional well-being, there are lots of resources just for you.
From Attention to Connection: Responding to Challenging Behavior in Caring Ways
In this webinar, you’ll learn strategies to help you support young children facing emotional challenges.
