If there is one thing that we all need to succeed in life, it is the ability to self-regulate in all of the situations life throws our way!  Building a foundation of these skills in our kids, will serve them for the rest of their lives.  Kids are expected to self-regulate a lot.  Here are 3 favorite tricks that work in our house, and we hope they work in yours too!

#1 - Bendy straws!  We begin every morning with a drinkable yogurt and a bendy straw.  Drinking thick liquids through a straw can be calming to the body and mind!

#2 - Carry the groceries, laundry, books, or anything heavy.  When I taught in the classroom and had a student who was extra frustrated, wiggly, or dysregulated, I loaded them up with heavy books to carry and asked them to deliver the books to a teacher down the hall.  This is called “heavy work” and it calms the nervous system while helping with anxiety. 

#3 - Bubbles!  We know that taking deep breaths helps us to calm down.  Bubbles can make this fun for kids!  We love to use all types of bubble wands, and blow slowly and then quickly to see which makes the biggest bubble!  

BONUS - Preschooler Strategy: Hug Yourself!  Teach your child how to wrap their arms in front and squeeze tight.  The pressure will likely feel calming, AND, it gives those little hands something to do, preventing them from grabbing, hitting, pushing, or whatever else they may really want to do!

By giving your child tools to self-regulate, you are supporting their nervous system.  This empowers them. Talking to our kids about how to help their bodies feel calm will eventually allow them to feel in control of their bodies, leading to the ability to make decisions, wait their turn, stay focused, and even cope with stress!

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