One area that my autistic/hyperlexic son needs support with is self-regulation. We are trying to help him build up a strong set of self-regulation tools and coping strategies so that he has the tools to calm himself as needed.
These free printable visual calm down strategies cards for kids are one of those tools to help him pick strategies that work.
Much like our free printable daily schedule, these calm down cards are visual. They include a variety of ideas targeting oral motor skills, heavy work activities, vestibular and proprioceptive sensory input, and more. There's over 40 ideas included!
About These Free Calm Down Cards for Kids
These visual calm down strategies cards are a great thing to include in a calm down kit for kids. Or take them on the go with a few fidgets or other supplies to use when your child has a meltdown when out and about (aka make a travel calm down kit).
Since my son is a visual learner, I included full color photos on each card, but you can print them in black and white like I did, if you prefer. (Or out of necessity because you only have a black and white printer...)
There are 40 cards included in this set. Each card has a full color photo or image and written text below. The cards include a variety of ideas such as:
- Interest based or play based ideas such as singing the ABCs, building with blocks, or doing a maze or puzzle
- Simple calm down and mindfulness strategies such as yoga, deep breathing, and blowing bubbles
- Sensory ideas such as swinging, using a sensory bottle, or deep, heavy work
- Quiet time activities such as reading, taking a bubble bath, or retreating to a quiet place
- Movement activities such as dancing, skipping, or jumping on a trampoline
- ...and so much more!
How to Make These Calm Down Cards Portable
If you want to easily make them portable, perfect for taking on the go, then here's what you'll need:
- Free printable visual calm down strategies cards - You'll have to fill in the sign up form below to grab your copy.
- Scissors or paper cutter/trimmer - I highly recommend going the paper cutter route! Things go much quicker and the cuts stay straight!
Simply print off the cards, cut, laminate, cut again, and hole punch. Slip the cards onto a binder ring. Then kids can flip through the book to find a calm down strategy that they would like to try.
Download the Free Printable Visual Calm Down Strategies Cards
This set of visual calm down strategies cards includes over 40 full color ideas! I just printed in black and white because, shockingly, I don't have a color printer! Gasp, I know. PS: They make a great addition to a DIY calm down kit for kids!
This printable was updated on February 13, 2019 to include more diversity in the photographs on the calm down cards! I hope you enjoy the newly revised cards!
To get your copy, enter your name and email in the form below.
