Free Calm-Down Starter Kit for Toddlers: Help Your Child Handle Big Emotions With Visual Tools

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 Big feelings can be overwhelming for toddlers. From sudden tantrums to quiet meltdowns, emotions often come faster than they can express. That’s why I created this Free Calm-Down Starter Kit — a research-informed, visual toolset designed to help toddlers understand, express, and manage their emotions in a safe and supportive way.

Why Toddlers Need Visual Tools to Calm Down

Young children are still learning how to connect their feelings with words. In fact, research in early childhood development shows that toddlers process visual cues faster than verbal instructions. Visual supports can help them:

  • Recognize and label their feelings

  • Understand safe ways to respond

  • Build independence in calming down

Children with autism or speech delays especially benefit from visual aids. By removing language pressure and adding predictability, visuals help all toddlers feel more in control.


Cover page mockup of the Free Calm-Down Starter Kit for Toddlers, featuring illustrated visuals like a social story, cue cards, and a calm-down guide for early childhood emotional s


What’s Included in the Free Kit:

This printable Calm-Down Starter Kit includes everything you need to introduce emotional regulation in your home or daycare:

✅ 1. Calm-Down Choice Board (Visuals Only)

A 1-page board with 4 autism-friendly visuals:

  • Take a deep breath

  • Hug a toy

  • Ask for help

  • Quiet play

Tip: Post this board in your calm-down space or at child eye-level. Let your toddler point to or choose a strategy when they feel upset.

✅ 2. Mini Social Story: "When I Feel Angry"

A toddler-friendly printable storybook that walks children through what anger feels like and what they can do. It uses a gentle, reflective tone and supportive illustrations.

Tip: Read the story during calm moments, not just when your child is upset. Repetition helps toddlers absorb new ideas.

✅ 3. 3 Visual Cue Cards (With Labels)

  • Break Time

  • Sensory Play

  • Coloring

These small square cards are perfect for your visual routine board or calm-down bin.

Tip: Laminate the cards or print on cardstock. Keep them handy during transitions or emotional moments.

✅ 4. How-to-Use + Printing Tips Page

Simple, clear advice for printing at US Letter size (8.5" x 11") and using the tools effectively at home or in a childcare setting.

Tip: Print at 100% scale for best results. Laminate for repeated use.

✅ 5. Final Thank You + Share Page

Help us spread calm! Share this kit with fellow parents, daycare providers, or teachers who support young children.

Benefits of Using a Calm-Down Kit

Visual tools give toddlers something to see and do when they feel overwhelmed. Instead of relying on verbal reminders, you offer them a safe, visual menu of options.

With repeated use, toddlers begin to:

  • Build emotional awareness

  • Gain confidence in handling big feelings

  • Reduce behavior outbursts over time

Final Thoughts for Parents & Educators

You don’t need fancy tools to support your toddler’s emotional growth. Just a bit of structure, visuals, and patience go a long way. Start small — introduce the Choice Board, read the social story at bedtime, and let your child explore.

You’re not just managing behavior. You’re building lifelong emotional skills.

📅 Ready to Get Started?

Click below to get your free kit: Download the Calm-Down Starter Kit on Payhip

And don’t forget to follow along:

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