1. Stay Calm Yourself
Toddlers mirror your energy.
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Quiet voice
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Slow body movements
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Relaxed breathing
If you stay steady, toddlers can settle faster.
If you feel your buttons being pushed, it’s okay to:
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Switch with a coworker
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Take a breath
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Step away for a moment
A calm teacher helps every child.
2. Use Words + Simple Choices
Toddlers understand more than they can say.
Helpful phrases:
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“I see you’re upset.”
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“Let’s take a break.”
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“Do you want the red cup or the blue cup?”
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“We can try again.”
This gives children a sense of control without giving in to unsafe behaviors.
3. Offer Calming Tools
When toddlers are overstimulated, offer tools to settle:
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Cool drink of water
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Slow walk down the hallway
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A favorite song
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Soft toy or weighted plush
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Looking at something interesting (mindfulness)
These moments help bring their bodies back to balance.
4. Use Positive Routines
Patterns help toddlers feel safe.
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Transition songs
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Visual schedules
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Predictable snack and nap times
Consistency prevents many tantrums before they start.
Real Classroom Examples
Example 1: Rooftop Energy
Jonah is running around the room, yelling.
You offer a plan:
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“Let’s jump on the floor dots together!”
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After a few minutes, you say:
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“Now we sit and drink water. One…two…three.”
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He settles and joins circle time.
Example 2: Big Feelings at Cleanup
Maya throws blocks when it’s time to clean up.
You kneel and say:
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“You don’t want to stop playing. That is hard.”
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Hand her one block:
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“You can put this block in the bin.”
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Small success → more success.
The OT Toolbox — “What Is Co-Regulation?” (2023).
https://www.theottoolbox.com/co-regulation/