Helping Children Soothe Themselves
Two simple, hands-on ways to help children overwhelmed by big feelings.
Print these step-by-step directions for making two items (from everyday materials) that can help soothe a child overwhelmed by big feelings: a comfort container and an ocean bottle.
It’s helpful to keep in mind that mental health isn’t necessarily about feeling “good” at all times—it can be about how we deal with challenges, and there are so many coping strategies like these that you can teach and practice with your children. They’ll use these tools over their lifetimes… long after the big and small challenges of their childhood have come and gone.
Body Break
A quick, playful body break helps children reset by moving, stretching, and breathing to feel calmer, more focused, and ready for what’s next.
Rosita’s Family Quilt
By adding the shirt to their family quilt, Rosita learns how memories, change, and love can turn something broken into something beautiful.
How Am I Feeling? Poster
Use pictures and simple words to help children notice and name feelings.
We Can Do Hard Things Lyric Sheet
Sing along to the words to a powerful song about persistence.
Our Quiet Corner
Sesame friends use a special space to handle big feelings safely.
Social Connection Volunteer Guide
Guide with activity suggestions that boost social connection.
Kindness Comes in Many Forms
Big Bird and Felix discuss Big Bird’s gift for Oscar.