August|2026

First Words Calendar

Tried & True Tips from a Therapist

by Kristi Denkeler, EIS, SC, Team Leader

Help Your Toddler Manage Big Feelings

Have you ever been cut off in traffic or had someone refuse to let you merge? Maybe you've stood behind someone with a full cart in the express checkout lane...50 items instead of 15?! Frustrating moments like these can make anyone feel upset. Now imagine your child having those same big feelings without the words or skills to express them.

When we feel overwhelmed, our "inner toddler" may want to scream, kick, or throw things too. As adults, we have learned ways to calm ourselves. We might enjoy a cup of coffee, take a warm bath or shower, eat a piece of chocolate, exercise, listen to music, or go for a walk or take a drive.

Toddlers are still learning these important self-calming skills. As an Early Intervention Specialist, one of the most common questions I hear from families is how to help reduce tantrums and teach healthy ways to calm down. It is important to remember that we are helping shape these amazing, curious, and sometimes challenging little people. They deserve patience, respect, and guidance as they learn. Here are some strategies that can help.

1. Create a Calm Spot

A calm spot is different from a time-out. It is a special place that you and your child create together when they are calm. This space gives your child a safe place to go when they need a break. (See ideas here.)

Choose a quiet area away from the television and other loud distractions. A calm spot can be as simple as a small tent, a cozy corner with pillows, or a soft rug.

Fill the area with calming items such as:

• Sensory bottles (Learn how to make a sensory bottle here.)
• Texture books
• Stress balls or sensory balls
• Shakers and pop-it toys
• Bubbles, feathers, or pretend birthday candles to blow out
• Favorite stuffed animals
• Soft pillows or bean bags
• Books, posters, or picture cards that show different emotions

2. Practice Calming Skills Through Play

Children learn best through play. Practice calming strategies before your child is upset so they know what to do when big feelings happen.

Try activities such as:

• Blowing out pretend candles
• Blowing bubbles
• Drinking cold water through a straw
• Counting favorite toys
• Playing with Play-Doh, slime, kinetic sand, water, or ice (Try this DIY taste-safe kinetic sand or these great ice play ideas.)

Blowing and sucking activities can help children regulate their breathing and calm their bodies.

3. Model Taking a Break

Children learn by watching the adults around them. When you need a break, let your child see you use your own calming strategies. Say something like, "I am feeling frustrated, so I am going to my calm spot to take a few deep breaths." This teaches your child that everyone has big feelings and that taking a break is a healthy way to handle them.

4. Read Books About Feelings

Read books about emotions every day or several times each week. Stories help children recognize different feelings, learn new words to express themselves, and discover healthy ways to cope. Check out these book suggestions.

5. Use Music and Movement

Calming music, silly songs, or simple yoga activities can help children relax and reset. You may even choose a special calming song that you use consistently whenever your child needs help settling down. Check out Cosmic Kids for some wonderful themed yoga activities.

6. Offer Regulating Snacks

Some children find crunchy snacks, chewy foods, or cold drinks through a straw calming. These simple activities can provide sensory input that helps them regulate their emotions.

7. Stay Calm During a Tantrum

When a child is having a tantrum, talking loudly or trying to reason with them often makes the situation more difficult. Instead, help your child move to a safe, comfortable space where they can express their feelings.

Once your child begins to calm down, speak in a gentle voice and get down to their eye level. You might say, "I see that you are upset. I am here to help." Naming their feelings helps children learn to recognize and communicate emotions over time.

Every Child Is Different

There is no single strategy that works for every child. Pay attention to what helps your child feel calm and practice those strategies often, especially when they are already feeling happy and relaxed.

The calming skills you teach your child today can become lifelong tools for managing emotions, solving problems, and building healthy relationships.

Your Story Matters

We’d love to hear your journey. Whether it’s a small milestone or a life-changing moment, your story can inspire others and help us show the power of possibility.

Introducing The Heart of ECI

At Easterseals ECI, our work is driven by people with big hearts—those who go above and beyond to support children, families, and one another every single day. To celebrate that spirit, we’re introducing a new monthly feature called “The Heart of ECI.” Each month, we’ll spotlight one of our incredible team members who embodies the compassion, dedication, and teamwork that make our mission come alive. These individuals are nominated by their peers—the people who see their kindness, commitment, and impact in action every day.