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Creating a sensory calm down jar is a simple and effective way to help children manage their emotions and promote calmness. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of making your own calming jar at home, perfect for classrooms, therapy sessions, or at home.
Materials Needed
- Clear plastic or glass jar with a lid
- Water
- Clear glue or glitter glue
- Glitter, beads, or small foam shapes
- Food coloring (optional)
- Super glue or waterproof sealant (if needed)
Steps to Make the Calm Down Jar
Follow these simple steps to create your calming jar:
Step 1: Prepare Your Jar
Start by cleaning your jar thoroughly. Remove any labels and dry it completely to ensure a clear view of the contents.
Step 2: Fill with Water
Fill the jar about three-quarters full with water. Leave some space at the top to allow for shaking and movement.
Step 3: Add Glue and Color
Pour in about a tablespoon of clear glue or glitter glue. Add a few drops of food coloring if you want to customize the color of your calm down jar.
Step 4: Add Glitter and Decorations
Insert glitter, beads, or small foam shapes into the jar. These will create visual interest and help focus attention during calming moments.
Step 5: Seal the Jar
Secure the lid tightly. For extra security, you can seal the lid with super glue or waterproof sealant to prevent spills.
Using Your Sensory Calm Down Jar
Encourage children to shake the jar when they feel upset or overwhelmed. Watching the glitter settle can be soothing and help children regain their calm. Remind them to take deep breaths and observe the calming effects of the jar.
Benefits of a Sensory Calm Down Jar
- Provides a visual distraction to help children manage emotions
- Encourages mindfulness and deep breathing
- Easy to customize with different colors and decorations
- Affordable and simple to make at home or in the classroom
Creating a sensory calm down jar is a fun and practical activity that can support emotional regulation. With just a few materials, you can make a calming tool that will be useful for children anytime they need a moment of peace and focus.