1. Calm-Down Countdown Rocket
Say:
“Let’s do a 5-4-3-2-1 rocket blast to calm!”
-
5 fingers wiggling
-
4 deep breaths
-
3 claps
-
2 stomps
-
1 big hug
Then pretend to launch into space—zoom!
2. Cozy Cave or “Turtle Shell” Retreat
Make a little pillow fort or pop-up tent and call it a “Cozy Cave” or “Turtle Shell.”
“Want to take a break in your turtle shell?”
It’s a safe space to reset—not a punishment.
3. “Mad Art” Scribble Time
Give them paper and crayons and say:
“Let’s scribble out the mad!”
They can draw, color hard, or tear the paper—all safe, healthy ways to let feelings out.