My Coping Toolbox (Ages 6 to 9)

My Coping Toolbox (Ages 6 to 9)

Different feelings need different tools.

Coping skills help kids get through a big feeling, but one tool doesn’t fit every feeling. This colorful one-page coping skills sheet is sorted by feeling, so kids can find the one that fits, try a tool and color in a star next to the ones that help.

What’s inside

When I feel mad (my body feels hot and strong): stomp it out, pillow squeeze, scribble it out.

When I feel worried (my thoughts keep going and going): balloon breathing, a worry box, and asking a grown-up “What’s going to happen next?”

When I feel sad (my body feels heavy): cozy cuddle, ask for a hug, happy song.

When I feel tired or blah (I don’t want to do anything): dance party, cool drink, go outside.

A quick picker for real-life moments: after school when everything feels like too much, worries at bedtime, losing a game, or missing someone.

A reminder for kids and grown-ups: all feelings are okay, it’s always okay to ask for help, and practicing together when calm makes the tools easier to use later.

Who it’s for

Kids ages 6 to 9, plus the parents, play therapists, school counselors and teachers who support them.

Ways to use it

Try each tool together in session and let your child star their favorites.

Post it in a calm-down corner, classroom or bedroom.

Use the quick picker for after-school restraint collapse and bedtime worries.

Send it home so parents and kids practice the same tools.

Why it’s different

Each feeling starts with a body clue, like “my body feels hot and strong,” so kids can recognize the feeling before they have the word. The tools include movement, deep pressure, sensory comfort and connection, which work especially well for neurodivergent and sensory-seeking kids. And nobody is told to “just calm down.”

What you get

A one-page printable PDF, US Letter, available as an instant download. Single-clinician license included.

Pairs well with: Grounding, Take Two: Ages 6 to 9; Whole-Body Feelings Wheel, Ages 6 to 9; Emotions 101 for Kids: Be a Feelings Detective

The two Coping Skills, Sorted sheets (ages 10 to 12 and 13 to 17) are next if you want to keep going.