Coping Skills Toolbox for Ages 10-12

Coping Skills, Sorted: Ages 10 to 12

Find it, try it, star it.

Different feelings need different tools. This one-page coping skills sheet for preteens is sorted by what’s actually happening, so they can find the feeling that fits, try a tool and star the ones that help. Every tool is one clear line, which makes it easy to use on their own.

What’s inside

• Frustrated or about to blow (lots of energy that needs somewhere to go): wall push, take space (“I need 5 minutes”), rip it up.
• Worried or overthinking (my brain won’t stop): brain dump, box breathing, control sort.
• Sad, left out or lonely (I need comfort or connection): reach out, comfort playlist, and “friend voice”: what would I say to a friend who felt this way?
• Drained, blah or done (running on empty): move for 5 minutes, refuel with water and a snack, one tiny win.
• A quick picker for real moments: after a fight with a friend, the night before a test, home from school and wiped out, and can’t sleep because of worries.
• A reminder: coping skills don’t make feelings disappear, they help you ride them out, and asking for help is a coping skill too.

Who it’s for: preteens ages 10 to 12, plus the school counselors, therapists and parents who support them.