Table of Contents
Calm Down Jars are a popular tool used by teachers and parents to help children manage their emotions, especially frustration and impulsivity. These jars are simple to make and serve as a visual calming aid, encouraging children to pause and regain control during emotional moments.
What Are Calm Down Jars?
Calm Down Jars are transparent containers filled with water, glitter, and sometimes other small objects. When shaken, the glitter swirls around, creating a mesmerizing effect. Watching the glitter settle helps children focus, breathe, and calm down before reacting.
How Do Calm Down Jars Help?
The jars serve as a visual cue for children to pause and reflect. The slow settling of the glitter mimics the calming process, encouraging children to take deep breaths and regain control over their emotions. This can reduce impulsive reactions and promote emotional regulation.
Benefits of Using Calm Down Jars
- Provides a tangible way to understand emotions
- Helps develop patience and self-control
- Reduces anxiety and agitation
- Supports mindfulness and emotional awareness
How to Make a Calm Down Jar
Creating a Calm Down Jar is simple and inexpensive. Here are the basic steps:
- Fill a clear jar or bottle with water.
- Add a few teaspoons of glitter (choose colors that are calming).
- Optionally, add a few drops of glitter glue or food coloring for visual effect.
- Screw on the lid tightly.
- Shake the jar and watch the glitter swirl and settle.
Using Calm Down Jars Effectively
Introduce the jar to children as a calming tool. When a child becomes upset or impulsive, encourage them to shake the jar and watch the glitter. As the glitter settles, guide them to take deep breaths and express their feelings. Reinforce that the jar is a reminder to pause and think before reacting.
Tips for Success
- Use the jar consistently during emotional moments.
- Explain that it’s a tool to help them calm down, not to punish.
- Encourage children to describe what they see and feel.
- Make personalized jars with different colors or themes.
With regular use, Calm Down Jars can become a valuable part of a child’s emotional regulation toolkit, helping them develop patience, self-awareness, and resilience.