At LA Speech Therapy Solutions, our OT Therapy Los Angeles team knows that mental stress and muscle tension inhibit a child’s ability to function properly. When breathing techniques aren’t doing the trick, here are some other options to help your child calm down.
1. Inversion
Take a cue from Yogis and have your child enter child’s pose, hang their heads down towards their toes, or practice a headstand. Inverting the body refreshes our autonomic nervous system, which controls how we respond to stress.
2. Sing Loudly
Singing out loud to a favorite tune releases endorphins in the brain. These chemicals are “feel good” chemicals that, upon release, physically make you feel better.
3. Take A Hot Bath
Relaxing in the tub with steam rising from the surface is a trusted way for both kids and adults to unwind. Including a few bath toys can make the experience more child-friendly.
4. Push Against A Wall
This trick rids our body of stress hormones. Our muscles contract when we try to push the wall down; these muscles relax when they get tired out. This entire process relaxes the body and signals the brain to release endorphins.
5. Pop Bubble Wrap
A simple joy that everyone has experienced. Popping bubble wrap is a classic de-stressing mechanism that gives your mind a breather by engaging your fingers in sensory stimulation.
6. Go For A Walk
Have your child breathe in fresh air and get some exercise. The repetitive rhythm of walking also has a self-soothing quality. Taking a walk with your child helps them get out of their head.
7. Blow Up Balloons
This activity requires children to take deep breathes and control their exhalation. An improvement upon typical breathing techniques, blowing up balloons is a more tangible, colorful experience that will keep children engaged.
8. Watch Fish
The physical act of watching fish swim in a tank reduces blood pressure and heart rate. The next time your child needs to unwind, go find some fish; think lakes, ponds, and aquariums.
About LA Speech Therapy Solutions
LA Speech Therapy Solutions is an OT Therapy Los Angeles provider. Our occupational therapy professionals have years of experience helping children overcome developmental delays. If your child is having trouble meeting age-specific cognitive, motor, or social milestones, contact our OT therapy Los Angeles team for a full assessment.
