The Big Idea: Small things can set kids off, but you can teach them a self-soothing breathing exercise for them to use on their own.
Count, Breathe, Relax
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n66r5Y6wguc
Explain that Cookie Monster is having a hard time with big feelings, so he’s learning “Birthday Breathing.” Together, watch the video all the way through. Show it again and have kids practice along with you and Cookie Monster (it helps to rehearse a strategy before you actually need it!):
- Hold up one hand—it’s a birthday cake with five candles!
- Pretend to blow out one of the candles: take a deep breath in and then blow out, curling the finger down as you finish exhaling.
- Repeat with the other four fingers until you have a fist. Notice how you feel now. Repeat if needed.
