Emotional First Aid Kit
To empower children with a personal toolkit of strategies for managing different emotions.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Personal, Social & Emotional
- Learning area: Personal, Social and Emotional Development
- Level: EYFS Reception
Objectives
- Creates personal regulation kit
- Uses kit independently
- Identifies effective personal strategies
- Shows self-regulation growth
Materials
- Small decorated boxes
- Strategy cards
- Sensory items
- Personal comfort items
Instructions
INTRODUCING THE CONCEPT: 'When our body gets hurt, we use a first aid kit with plasters and bandages. When our FEELINGS get hurt, we need an EMOTIONAL first aid kit!'
CHOOSING STRATEGIES: 'What helps YOU when you're upset? Deep breathing? Drawing? Squeezing a stress ball? Listening to music? Choose YOUR favourite strategies for YOUR kit.'
FILLING THE KIT: Children fill small boxes: a stress ball, a breathing card, a photo of someone who loves them, a note saying 'You can do hard things', their favourite calm activity.
USING THE KIT: 'You're feeling upset. Would you like to use your emotional first aid kit? Take it to the calm corner and try your strategies. You know what works for YOU.'