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The most read post on this blog is by far the one I did several years ago on calming kit boxes for classrooms in the elementary school I worked at, at the time.  Since then, I have continued to use calming toolkits with students I work with.  Today, I wanted to share what I have in mine, as I finally am happy (after several years) with that is inside!

So without further ado, here’s what’s in my calming tools/fidget kit (I still can’t decide on a name!)

First, I loved the closed plastic shoe boxes, and they probably work great for the classroom, but I found that when I had my tools out in an open space, kids were more likely to use them.  This container is from the Target Dollar Spot during the back to school sale time.  It’s perfect for my office for now.

As far as what is inside, I have found that this variety of tools is essential to facilitate the appropriate use of the skills, and have something for everyone.

Visual Calming Tools:  (I make them but a glitter wand does the trick as well.). Right now I have a calming glitter jar that I made in a group, but anything that is visually calming.  Think of looking at the beach, or fish swimming in. fish tank.  It calms you, right?  That’s what I try to replicate here.

Stress balls:  (These emjoi ones and  these mesh ones are student favorites.) I like to have a variety of things that kids can squeeze when they feel nervous, stressed or need something to move in their hand without much distraction.   These are the first tools I use when I introduce this bin to kids.

Fidgets:  (These wooden ones are definite favorites,I describe fidgets to kids like something you can use to keep your hands or body busy so that your mind can concentrate.  Not pictured, but very popular-thinking putty!

Ideas for calming:  (I love these visual ones) I have to admit-I thought that this would be more popular than it is, but I still keep it in there, despite its popularity.  I like the idea of visuals for kiddos who resist when I ask “what tool can you use right now?” and then give 500 suggestions that are denied.  😉

Tools for feeling expression:  How many times do kids come in shut down, and just don’t want to talk?  In these instances, I find that kids so often will express themselves through drawing, writing, or visually showing what they are thinking or feeling before verbalizing it.  In times like these, anything where kids can write or draw, point to a feeling, etc. are essential.  I found these smiley faces on clearance at Target on a whim, and my kids LOVE pulling out the one that matches their mood when they are otherwise shut down.

Calm breathing visuals:  I’ve mentioned this before, but I teach pretty much every single kid that comes through my door a calm breathing technique.  Let’s face it -who couldn’t use it???  The ones kids tell me that they use the most are 5 Finger Breathing and Lazy 8 Breathing, so I include visuals for those, and a few others, in my box as well.

So, that’s what I have included in my calming tools kit-it seems to have a bit of everything for kiddos who need it.  Are there any other gems you have?  How do you use these tools in your work?