This Just Might Be The Thing That Saves You in 2026

A few months ago, I attended a one-off class with a celebrated MFT in the area who is known for her work with kids - in particular, kids with big emotions. You know the ones. The Geminis or those masking as Geminis. You can't miss 'em - and we all have one. The class was meant to help moms tackle Back-to-School, Big Emotions & Mindful Transitions, all things I still haven't mastered in my 34 years on this earth but here's to giving it a go with my 6 year old. I mostly just wanted to hang out with my friends who were also attending. The therapist started talking and while she was describing different techniques and tactics, an idea popped in my head: a regulation bin.

What's a regulation bin? It's a shoe box or container housing all the essentials for deescalation. When a category 4 emotional hurricane is heading your way, this is the thing you'll grab. And it's all based on things this therapist was saying are helpful to kids around this age.

So, let's build one together and put it next to our fire extinguishers, epipens, and dechokers - shall we?

What you'll need:

bubbles or matchbook

kazoo or harmonica

paper & crayons (or some sort of doodling devices)

pop rocks

warheads or sour candy

play-doh

stress balls

weighted blanket

yoga cards

calm turtle

easy game

Why

bubbles or matchbook: these force the kids to regulate their breath and are a great distraction from their big emotions

kazoo or harmonica: another breathing tactic but also paired with funny music to lighten the mood

paper & crayons: a technique used by many child therapists is asking them to draw their emotions. This art therapy has proven very effective in helping kids define their feelings and have a safe, healthy outlet for them

pop rocks: these are guaranteed to distract your kid from their tantrum plus all kids love candy

warheads or sour candy: there are countless studies out there that confirm that sour candy can actually stop panic and anxiety. How? I don't know ask a doctor but it's a real thing.

play-doh: the squish is where it's at for the angry kiddos

stress balls: just like with adults, stress balls can actually be a super effective way for kids to channel their emotions into a simple squeeze.

weighted blanket: provides safety and comfort if necessary through deep pressure stimulation which calms the nervous system - the same way a hug does.

yoga cards: emotions are a full mind/body activity for kids so helping the body feel good is just as important as helping their mind feel good. These kid-friendly yoga cards can help them feel centered and calm.

calm turtle: the Zenimal calm turtle is basically an instructed meditation device for kids that can be super helpful after a big meltdown.

easy game: an easy simple game like these at-home scavenger hunt cards can invite distraction and also help with the transition from tantrum back into reality.