Three Simple Ways to Help Your Child Find Calm
Parenting can feel overwhelming when emotions run high. The good news? Calming doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few easy techniques, you can give your child tools to settle their body and mind—while staying connected to them in the moment. Here are three quick strategies to try today ⬇️
1️⃣ Box Breathing
Draw a square in the air with your finger:
〰️ Inhale (4 counts) → Hold (4) → Exhale (4) → Hold (4). The rhythm + visual makes it easy for kids to follow.
2️⃣ Belly Buddy
Have your child lie down with a soft toy (or a squishy gel bead pack!) on their tummy. As they breathe in, the toy rises. As they breathe out, it lowers. It’s fun, visual, and teaches slow, steady breathing.
3️⃣ The “Calm Senses” Game
Ask your child to notice:
〰️ 3 things they can see
〰️ 2 things they can hear
〰️ 1 thing they can touch (like a squishy gel bead pack).
It’s grounding, simple, and works anywhere.
✨ Calm doesn’t come from perfection—it comes from practice. Try one of these today and notice how your child responds.
Written By Brooke Michell
Brooke Michell is a Psychologist, MPsych (Clinical), passionate about helping children and families improve sleep, wellbeing, and connection. With over a decade of experience at the Paediatric Sleep & Psychology Clinic, and now the Director of Calm Space Psychology, Brooke specializes in gentle, research-based strategies for children from birth through adolescence. Brooke’s Masters research explored the impact of sleep on children’s behaviour, a focus that continues to shape her compassionate and practical approach to supporting families today.
📖 For more gentle tools, take a look at our Calmer Bedtimes E-books.
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🌿 Join Brooke's community on Facebook and Instagram for more parenting tips and support.
As always, information on this website is for educational purposes only. Please consult your GP for information specific to your child.
