Soothing Strategies: Grounding Techniques Pocket Cards
Here are some self-soothing grounding techniques involving tapping or squeezing that can help calm and refocus children. These pocket cards are perfect for children to begin using straightaway. We recommend that younger children are trained in how to use these techniques prior to using them independently.
The key is providing sensory input and focusing their attention on the sensations in the moment rather than overwhelming thoughts and feelings. Start with just 30 seconds- 1 minute of any of these techniques.
This resource is suitable EYFS, KS1 (when trained in how to use the resource), and KS2.
How could this resource be used?
- To support children and young people with developing personal coping strategies for dealing with big emotions and feelings.
- To help children and young people to distract themselves, for example: away from making risk-related decisions.
- To promote a love of mindfulness as a calming strategy for coping with BIG feelings.
Relevant Curriculum Links:
England PSHE – Which statutory PSHE curriculum* objectives does this resource fall into? *in line with the PSHE Association 2021 Statutory Guidance.
KS1:
- H13. how feelings can affect people’s bodies and how they behave.
- H18. different things they can do to manage big feelings, to help calm themselves down and/or change their mood when they don’t feel good.
KS2:
- H20. strategies to respond to feelings, including intense or conflicting feelings; how to manage and respond to feelings appropriately and proportionately in different situations.
Scottish Health and Wellbeing Curriculum Outcome(s):
- Mental and Emotional Wellbeing:
- I know that we all experience a variety of thoughts and emotions that affect how we feel and behave and I am learning ways of managing them. HWB 0-02a / HWB 1-02a / HWB 2-02a / HWB 3-02a / HWB 4-02a.
- I understand that there are people I can talk to and that there are a number of ways in which I can gain access to practical and emotional support to help me and others in a range of circumstances. HWB 0-03a / HWB 1-03a / HWB 2-03a / HWB 3-03a / HWB 4-03a.
- I understand the importance of mental wellbeing and that this can be fostered and strengthened through personal coping skills and positive relationships. I know that it is not always possible to enjoy good mental health and that if this happens there is support available. HWB 0-06a / HWB 1-06a / HWB 2-06a / HWB 3-06a / HWB 4-06a.
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