Helping Kids Soothe Themselves
Help children soothe themselves with these rainbow hug cards.
- Print this big rainbow hug from Elmo and show it to kids. You might say, “Elmo’s holding a rainbow because rainbows make him feel happy.”
- Help kids color in the card and cut it out, then ask, “What makes you feel happy?”; “When are some times you might need special hugs?”; and “Who do you think could use a big rainbow hug?”
- Encourage children to draw (on the back of the card) things that help them feel comforted, such as a stuffed animal or a favorite blanket. Each time they hug Elmo close to them, they will be getting close to those things, too!
Using Your Words
A coloring page helping children explore words for big feelings.
Safe & Together
When families have to leave home in order to stay safe, it helps to remember that home is where the love is.
Bubble Time
A quiet activity such as blowing bubbles can help both children and adults breathe deeply, slow down… and calm down.
Toddler Tips: Meltdowns
Strategies for during and after a meltdown…and even some ways meltdowns might be avoided.
Listen, Feel, and See with Elmo
When children are in the hospital, this mindfulness game can help them soothe themselves.
Monster Meltdown
Meltdowns happen… but they are somewhat predictable! As you try to handle them, curiosity and patience go a long way.
Cookie Monster’s Beach Day
When children are in the hospital, their imagination can become a valuable tool in soothing themselves.
