Allison Brown highlights the importance of finding individualized tools to help children regulate their emotions, as a one-size-fits-all approach often doesn’t work. She focuses on rhythmic coping skills, which involve repetitive, soothing activities that promote a sense of calm and balance. These skills aren’t just for moments of distress but can be integrated into daily routines to build overall resilience and emotional stability.
Examples include simple tools like slinkies, yo-yos, liquid motion bubblers, coloring, rocking chairs, or swings for younger children. For older kids and teens, activities like knitting, card shuffling, or even using a pinwheel can be beneficial. These rhythmic actions create a calming effect and help children manage difficult emotions more effectively when challenges arise.
Allison encourages families to experiment with these techniques and tailor them to their child’s needs.
