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The Calming Cart (emotional regulation tools for kids, grown-ups & everyone in between)
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items As a mom of a child with DMDD who has participated in intensive outpatient therapy for emotional regulation, I've learned firsthand how valuable it is for kids to have regulation tools readily available. I also have a bachelor's degree in psychology,...
Sections
6
Start With the Cart
Fidgets & Busy Hands
Sensory Tools
Cozy & Comforting
Breathe, Ground, & Reset
Create It Out
Start With the Cart
The actual setup: rolling carts, small carts, desktop organizers, baskets, pouches, and travel-friendly options for the car for on-the-go use.
A great option if you have a little more room or you're building a larger calming cart. This would work especially well at home, in a classroom, daycare, or child-focused office.
3 Tier Metal Utility Cart Gray - Brightroom™: Rolling Storage Trolley with Wheels, Powder-Coated, Rust-Resistant, 31.3" Height
You don't need an entire cart to create a calming space! A handled caddy or tote keeps favorite tools together and makes it easy to bring them wherever your child needs them. This is a great tote to help keep items organized and easy to find.
Pen+Gear Carry-All Teacher Tote Bag Organizer, Pink
This is the cart that I use at home! I just recently bought this cart to use SPECIFICALLY for our calming cart at home. I really like the mulicolor drawers, for one there are drawers as opposed to the 3 shelves on the rolling cart. I am able to utili...
5 Drawer Rolling Cart by Simply Tidy®, Color: Rainbow
This set is useful when using the tier rolling cart. This helps to keep items together and easy to find. It also helps keep the cart looking neat and less overwhelming, which I have found to be very important when utiliizing the calming cart.
Simplify 10 Pack Plastic Organizing Storage Basket Set, White
I love these pouches! I like to use these for crayons, candy, small fidgets, loose cards, etc. I also like that these are see through, it makes things easy to find and easy to put away where they belong.
8pk of Colored Zip Pouches, Teacher Supplies - up&up™
A great alternative when floor space is limited. The individual pockets make tools easy to see and organize without needing a cart, shelf, or dedicated calming corner.
Mainstays 24 Pocket Clear Over the Door Non Woven Closet Shoe Organizer Shelf - Arctic White
Big emotions don't stay home! Keeping a few familiar regulation tools in the car can be helpful during long drives, transitions, appointments, errands, or overstimulating days.
Skip Hop Style Driven Back Seat Car Organizer - Black
Perfect for making a smaller version of your calming cart to take anywhere. Fill it with a few tried-and-true favorites for restaurants, appointments, vacations, visits with family, or anywhere your child may need extra support. I love this one becau...
Foldable Hanging Cosmetic Organizer, 4-Slayer Travel Toiletry Bag with Clear Pouches, Water-Resistant Makeup Bag for Bathroom, Travel, Camping, Storage
A great option for older kids who want to carry their own regulation tools. It gives them some independence and privacy while keeping the things that help them within reach.
Ozark Trail 9 L Sling pack, Cream, Polyester Messenger Bag, Adult, Teen, Unisex
Fidgets & Busy Hands
Pop-its, stress balls, putty, stretchy toys, tangles, sensory rings, etc.
One of my favorites for keeping hands busy without requiring much thought. The repetitive twisting and turning can give busy hands something to focus on while listening, talking, waiting, or working through a big feeling.
10 PCS Multicolored Quiet Fidgets Toys for Unique Fidget Experience, Anti Anxiety Sensory Toys Combine into New Shapes, Brain Imagination Tools, Relax Therapy Educational Toy Twisty Bendy Fidget Toys
Simple, repetitive, and satisfying! Pop-its can give kids something predictable to do with their hands while they work through emotions or just need a little sensory input.
RadBizz Pop Fidget Sensory Fidget Toy For Autism, ADHD, Stress
Similar to a pop-it but smaller and easier to take anywhere. I especially like these for younger children because they're simple to manipulate and don't have a bunch of little pieces.
Fat Brain Toys Dimpl Baby and Toddler Sensory Developmental Toy
Great for kids who seek that squeezing input when they're frustrated, anxious, overwhelmed, or full of energy. I like having a few different firmness levels because every child has a different preference.
Joyfy 9 PCS Slow Rising Stress Balls Squishy Sensory Fidget Toys, Hand Therapy Balls for Anxiety Relief, Classroom Prize Bag Stuffers, Party Favors
These give a really satisfying resistance when squeezed and can be great for hands that need to do something. There are several textures and firmness levels, so this is another one where kids may have a definite favorite.
Schylling NeeDoh Nice Cube Squish Toy, ages 3+ (purple), 1ct
Great for older kids, teens, and adults who want something smaller and more discreet. They can be manipulated repetitively without feeling like a traditional children's sensory toy.
9Pcs Magnet Rings Fidget Toy Set, ADHD Fidget Toys for Adult, Magnets Fidget Spinner Rings for Anxiety Relief, Christmas Stocking Stuffers Gifts for Teen Boy Adults
The marble slides back and forth inside the mesh, giving the hands a repetitive task. They're inexpensive, quiet, and small enough to stash just about anywhere.
Novelty Place Mesh and Marble Fidget Toys 10 Pcs Mesh Texture Sensory Tools
Flip, fold, repeat. This is a good option for kids who enjoy continuous movement and patterns, and I especially like it for older children and adults.
Oren Fidget Cube Pack, Infinity Cubes for Sensory Play, Handheld Puzzle Game for Children, Teens - Promotes Fun, Stress Relief & Focus, Blue, Green, Pink, And Yellow - Set of 4
Different sides provide different movements like clicking, rolling, flipping, or rubbing. I like this because one small fidget gives you several sensory options to experiment with. It is also small enough to hold in your hand without causing a distra...
Appash Fidget Cube Stress Anxiety Pressure Relieving Toy Great for Adults and Children[Gift Idea][Relaxing Toy][Stress Reliever][Soft Material]
A quieter, simpler option for kids who find repetitive rubbing soothing. These can be especially nice for older children or anyone who doesn't want an obvious "fidget toy."
Fidget Toys Adults Sensory Stone: 6 Pack Textured Worry Stone for Autism Kids Calming Down - Fidget Stress Toys for Anxiety Relief - Small Students Prizes Fidget Toys
Great for pulling, twisting, wrapping, and stretching. These give more resistance than a lot of small fidgets and can be a good option for kids who want stronger input through their hands.
Stretch Fidgets, Multicolor, 6 Pack, Simply Sweet
Small enough to keep in a pocket, backpack, desk, or car. They're especially useful when a child wants something discreet to manipulate with their fingers.
Pen+Gear Multicolor Adaptive Fidget Rings, 6 Count
This is one of my favorites! The clicking movement and flexible body make these fun for kids who enjoy repetitive movement and sound. I wouldn't choose this one when quiet is the goal, though!
KiddiTouch 4 Pcs Slug Sensory Toys for Kids with Autism, Fidget Toy for Autistic Kids & Adults, 3D Articulated Slugs
One of my favorites because you can squeeze, stretch, pull, roll, and manipulate it in so many ways. Different resistance levels also let you find one that provides the amount of input your child prefers.
CanDo TheraPutty Therapy Putty Set Multi-color 6 X 2 oz. 2X-Soft / X-Soft / Soft / Medium / Firm / X-Firm 10-1480, 1 Set HSA/FSA Eligible
Sensory Tools
Sensory bottles, liquid timers, textured items, sensory brushes if appropriate, tactile tools, visual sensory items, etc.
Watching the glitter slowly settle gives kids something visual to focus on while they ride out a big emotion. I especially like these because you can pair them with breathing or simply sit together and watch. I like these because they can be used to ...
hand2mind Express Your Feelings Sensory Bottles, Social Emotional Fidget Toys for Kids (4 Pieces)
A simple visual sensory tool that's mesmerizing without requiring the child to do anything. Great for kids who respond well to having something predictable and repetitive to watch.
hand2mind Sensory Fidget Tubes (Set of 4), Calming Corner Items Kids, Fidget Toys for Kids
A larger option for a dedicated calming space. The combination of gentle movement and light can create a lower-stimulation environment when a child needs somewhere to decompress.
Bewish LED Sensory Bubble Lamp with Artificial Fish, 7 Color Changing Fake Aquarium Night Light, Relaxing Home Decor for Kids & Adults, Autism & ADHD
Projects slow-moving lights onto the wall or ceiling and can help transform a bedroom, classroom corner, or calming space into somewhere with less demanding visual input.
Enbrighten Color-Changing LED Galaxy Wave Projector, USB-C Powered, Night Light, 70333
A great option for kids who regulate better when they're allowed to move. It lets them wiggle and shift while still sitting for things like homework, meals, reading, or classroom activities.
Bouncyband Little Wiggle Seat Sensory Cushion, Purple
These give kids visual and tactile input through their feet and can be incorporated into a calming area or movement activity. I especially like tools that let kids regulate without requiring them to sit perfectly still.
Gift Boutique Liquid Sensory Floor Tiles 12" x 12" 4 Pack
I LOVE sensory bins!! They provide a lot of tactile exploration.
Creativity for Kids Sensory Bin Beach
Rice, dry pasta, kinetic sand, water beads alternatives, pom-poms, or other age-appropriate fillers can provide lots of tactile exploration. Always choose fillers based on the child's age and whether they still put things in their mouth.
STEAM by Roylco Sensory Bin
Scoop it, squish it, cut it, mold it, destroy it, rebuild it. It gives the hands a repetitive sensory activity while also leaving room for creative play. I love that it is easy to clean up! The sand clumps together so you don't have to worry about ti...
Kinetic Sand Deluxe Beach Castle Set with Molds & Tools
Soft dough gives kids something they can squish, roll, flatten, pull, and create with. I love sensory tools that don't have a "right" way to use them.
Play-Doh Retro Diner 8 Mega Variety Compounds – Bubble Pop, Butter, Foam, Super Stretch
Cozy & Comforting
Stuffed animals, soft blankets, lap pads, pillows, cozy items, and comfort objects.
Sometimes comfort is the tool! A familiar stuffed animal can provide something soft to hold, squeeze, cuddle, or simply keep nearby when emotions feel really big.
Spark Create Imagine Soft Bear Plush with Beans, 17 in, 0 Months+
These can add warmth and comfort to the coziness of a stuffed animal. This one has a little weight to it, which can provide comfort, and it also is lightly lavender scented. My children love to use this so much that they each have one of their own. A...
Warmies Microwavable French Lavender Scented Plush Fox
A simple cozy blanket can make a calming space feel safe and inviting. It’s also something children can wrap around themselves, snuggle under, or use while sitting with you. I have found that my children like the blankets with fringe or tassels on th...
Dongrere Knitted Throw Blanket with Tassel Fringe, Lightweight Decorative Blanket for Sofa Couch Bedroom Travel Hotel Home Use, 68x50 Inch, Orange
A larger pillow gives kids something they can hug, squeeze, lean against, or cuddle. Sometimes having something substantial to hold feels better than a small stuffed animal. 🐢 Weighted Lap Pad
18" Pink Cat Squishmallows Plush
Great for creating a little retreat when the rest of the room feels like too much. I especially like these for bedrooms, playrooms, classrooms, and daycare calming areas. It does not require any set up and fold back into it's pouch which makes this e...
Sensory Tent for Kids 36" Pop Up Calm Corner Tent Blackout Sensory Room Play Den for Autism ADHD SPD Children with Storage Bag
Breathe, Ground, & Reset
Pinwheels, bubbles, breathing boards/cards, grounding activities, mindfulness tools, visual breathing aids.
One of my favorite simple breathing tools for little kids! Blowing bubbles naturally encourages a longer exhale without having to tell a toddler to “take a deep breath.” Plus...bubbles. Immediate toddler currency.
Play Day Bubble Wand with 5 fl oz, 6 Pack Multicolor for Children Ages 3+
Another fun way to practice controlled breathing. Have your child experiment with blowing gently versus blowing hard and watch how the pinwheel responds.
JHyouerji Colorful Pinwheel DIY Craft Kit Multicolor Plastic Wind Pinwheel for Outdoor Garden Yard Decoration Photo Prop Gift
Put a feather in your hand or on a table and see how slowly your child can blow it away. This turns breathing practice into a game instead of another instruction they're expected to follow.
Hello Hobby Multicolor Goose Feathers, 4.75" x 0.52" x 8.75", 1 Pack
Children trace a path with their finger while breathing in and out. The visual and tactile component gives them something concrete to focus on while practicing their breathing
hand2mind Mindful Maze Boards, 3 Double Sided Breathing Boards with Finger Paths, Ages 3+
Expand the ball while breathing in, slowly collapse it while breathing out. I love this because it turns an abstract instruction like “breathe slowly” into something children can actually see and follow.
ORB Curiosities Expand-A-Ball JUMBO - Expandable Sensory & Fidget Sphere and Breathing Ball Toy For Kids and Adults - Doubles in Size to Expand From 6" to 14" - Great for Breathing Exercises and Play
Chewing gives the mouth something repetitive to do and can be a helpful sensory tool for some kids, teens, and adults. It's also discreet enough for older kids who may not want to pull out an obvious calming tool. Choose age-appropriate gum and use o...
Extra Polar Ice Sugar-Free Mint Chewing Gum - 15ct
The strong, cool peppermint flavor can be another simple sensory grounding tool. They're inexpensive, individually wrapped, and easy to keep in a calming cart, purse, desk, or travel kit. Choose age-appropriate options and supervise younger children ...
Great Value Peppermint Starlight Mints Hard Candy, 10 oz Bag
That strong sour flavor can give your senses something very specific to focus on when emotions feel overwhelming. I like this as a grounding option for older kids, teens, and adults who enjoy strong flavors. Always choose something age-appropriate an...
Warheads Extreme Sour Hard Candy - 3.25oz
This one is a little different, but I like it for helping children notice physical cues. What does your face look like? Are your eyebrows tight? Is your jaw clenched? What happens when we relax them? Body awareness is part of learning to recognize em...
Equate Medium Hand Face Mirror, Black, Size 10.6" x 7.6" x 0.3", 1 Count
Sometimes we don't need a specialized regulation product at all. Taking a pause, sitting somewhere comfortable, and having a drink of water can be part of resetting and tending to what the body needs.
Pure Life Purified Water, 8 fl oz, 12-pack Plastic Bottles
Create It Out
Coloring books, crayons, drawing tablets, journals, Play-Doh, art supplies, stickers, and other creative outlets.
Simple, inexpensive, and appropriate for a huge age range. Drawing and coloring gives kids something to do with their hands and another way to express themselves when they don't necessarily want to talk.
Crayola Crayons, 24 Count, Back to School Supplies, Classroom Must Haves for Teachers, Classic Colors, Gifts, 3+
A great option for older kids who may have outgrown crayons but still enjoy drawing or coloring. I'd keep a small set right in the cart with paper or a coloring book.
Crayola Colored Pencil Set, 12 Ct, Back to School Supplies for Kids, Classroom Supplies, Teacher Gift
Because sometimes you need to create it out, but Mom does not need permanent marker added to the emotional crisis. 😂 Washable all the way for younger kids!
Crayola 10ct Ultra Clean Washable Broad Line Markers, School Supplies for Kids, Art Classroom Must Haves, Coloring Gift, Ages 3+
Coloring provides a repetitive, low-pressure activity that some kids find relaxing. I'd include everything from simple children's coloring books to more detailed options for teens and adults.
Bendon Pet Pals Jumbo Coloring Book, 64 Pages
Coloring provides a repetitive, low-pressure activity that some kids find relaxing. I'd include everything from simple children's coloring books to more detailed options for teens and adults.
Bible 64 Page Coloring and Activity Book by Bendon, Easter Basket Stuffers, Paperback
Coloring provides a repetitive, low-pressure activity that some kids find relaxing. I'd include everything from simple children's coloring books to more detailed options for teens and adults.
Fuzzy Hygge: Cute and Cozy Coloring Book for Adults and Teens Featuring Adorable Animals Characters for Stress Relief, 96 pages (Paperback)
Coloring provides a repetitive, low-pressure activity that some kids find relaxing. I'd include everything from simple children's coloring books to more detailed options for teens and adults.
Crayola Flower Coloring Book Florals, 40 Adult Coloring Pages, Arts and Crafts, Screen Free Mindfulness Activity, Gifts for Teachers and Kids
Sometimes a blank page is better than a structured activity. Draw how you feel, scribble as hard as you want, make a picture, write something, or just doodle.
8.5"x11" Medium Weight Sketchbook - Mondo Llama™: Twin-Wire, Acid-Free, Soft Cover, 70 Pages,
The repetitive patterns can be especially nice for older kids, teens, and adults who enjoy detailed coloring. Definitely another calming-cart item that isn't just for children.
Crayola Mandala Coloring Book, 40 Pgs, Adult Coloring Book, Mindful Meditations, Mothers Day, Gifts for Teachers and Teens, Ages 8+
Draw, write, erase, repeat. These are fantastic for the car or travel kit too because there's virtually no mess and you don't need a pile of art supplies.
Pen+Gear 8-Inch LCD Doodle Tablet
Just add water and paint! These are especially nice for younger children because they provide the experience of painting without requiring you to put an entire craft store in your calming cart.
Melissa & Doug Water Reveal - Fairy Tale
Creative and sensory. Kids can squeeze it, smash it, roll it, build with it, or just manipulate it. Sometimes the process matters much more than whatever they create.
Play-Doh 4 Pack Classic Colors, 3 Ounce Cans, Arts & Crafts for Kids 2+
Bend, twist, shape, flatten, and create. They're portable, reusable, and don't require glue, scissors, or a bunch of additional supplies.
Wikki Stix Primary Pack Craft Kit
I really like these for older children, teens, and adults. They're repetitive, require just enough attention to occupy the brain, and give you something tangible at the end.
Brain Games - Sticker by Number Brain Games - Sticker by Number: Amazing Animals (13 Images to Sticker), (Spiral-Bound)
I really like these for older children, teens, and adults. They're repetitive, require just enough attention to occupy the brain, and give you something tangible at the end.
Brain Games - Sticker by Number Sticker by Number: Dream Big, (Spiral-Bound)
I really like these for older children, teens, and adults. They're repetitive, require just enough attention to occupy the brain, and give you something tangible at the end.
2ct Animal Gem Art Craft Activity Kit - Mondo Llama™
A great option for older kids and teens who enjoy repetitive handwork. Activities like bracelet-making can give the hands something structured to do while they decompress.
502pc String A Bling Jewelry Set - Mondo Llama™: DIY Bead Kit for Bracelet Making & Friendship Bracelets
Great for younger children who enjoy arranging and rearranging things. They're also easy to throw into a travel calming kit.
Reusable Sticker Pad - Habitats
And sometimes they don't want prompts! A plain notebook gives kids a private place to write, draw, rant, make lists, or get thoughts out of their head and onto paper.
3pk Florals 6"x8" - up&up™
Scratching away the dark coating to reveal the colors underneath gives kids a repetitive creative activity with a little sensory component too. They're also relatively mess-free and portable.
Rainbow Spectrum Scratch Art for Kids - 100Pcs Scratch Rainbow Art Paper，Mini Notes Arts and Craft Supplies, Summer Activities for Kids Camping & Summer Crafts