My 7 year old can often feel overwhelmed and on the verge of breaking down. We came up with a way for him to take 5 to calm down and start feeling more in control of things.
It might seem silly but it works for him – and for me!
Step 1: Stop. Whatever he’s doing, stop doing it.
Step 2: Breathe. Take a deep breath. Take a few deep breaths.
Step 3: Wiggle the ick out. Get the ick out and move it out.
Step 4: Dance to the music in your head or your heart right now. Usually he’s got a Bruno Mars song going. Sometimes he does the griddy. Step
Step 5: Smile. Smile huge. A really big toothy smile. Let that smile shine bright!!
And then, in about 15 seconds, he feels better.
And so do I.