Helping Toddlers Feel Safe (New Social Story and Calm-Down Plan for “When I Feel Scared”)
As a home daycare provider and parent, I’ve seen how big feelings can overwhelm little ones. One emotion I notice often is fear. It can happen when things are too loud, too fast, or just unfamiliar.
Sometimes a child’s heart starts beating fast and they want to hide.
Sometimes they freeze when someone comes too close.
And sometimes, they simply don’t have the words to say what they’re feeling.
That’s exactly why I created this new printable tool:
“When I Feel Scared” (A Toddler-Friendly Social Story with a Calm-Down Plan)
Why I Made This Story
This story comes from real moments I’ve seen in my daycare. I’ve worked with children who feel scared during loud sounds, busy transitions, or sudden touches. Fear is a normal feeling, but toddlers need help understanding it and knowing what to do.
So I created a simple, calm story with gentle visuals and supportive steps like:
I can stay near someone I trust
I can say “no” or “stop” if I need more space
I can cover my ears or hug a toy
Grown-ups can help me feel calm and safe again
Each line is paired with a clear visual that is autism-friendly and toddler-appropriate. There is no clutter, just a calm layout with clean white space and soft tones.
What’s Included in the Download
This listing includes:
The full “When I Feel Scared” story
A printable Calm-Down Plan Chart (in two versions, one with text and one without)
A soft and structured design made for young children
Both US Letter and mini book sizes
A gentle parent and educator tips page at the end
Whether your child is verbal or nonverbal, these visual tools give them options. The non-text versions are perfect for children who use AAC or need simpler visuals without labels.
How This Story and Chart Help Toddlers
This set was made to help children before the meltdown, not just during one. By reading the story during calm moments and reviewing the chart together, you’re helping your child build real emotional skills.
You can use it to:
Prepare your child for new places or situations
Add structure to your calm-down corner at home or school
Support sensory needs with clear and comforting images
Practice emotional phrases like “I need space” or “I feel scared”
The Calm-Down Plan is also a great visual reminder for toddlers to use safe tools like (hug a toy), (cover ears), or (go to a trusted adult).
Where to Get It
You can download the full set instantly here:
https://www.etsy.com/listing/4337817358/when-i-feel-scared-toddler-social-story
Everything prints easily at home and is ready to use with toddlers, preschoolers, or in early childhood classrooms.
A Gentle Way to Say “It’s Okay to Be Scared”
This printable story and calm-down chart were made with care for the real feelings toddlers face every day. When you offer tools like these, you’re telling your child:
You are safe
You are understood
And there are ways to feel better
🧸 Print it, read it often, and keep it close for calm-down time.
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