Age: 4-5
Applicable To: Groups or Individuals
CAPPD Concepts: Calm, present
What It Is:
Lead the children through the following:
• Sit comfortably and relaxed; breathe deeply
• Look around and name 5 pleasant objects you see
• Breathe slowly and deeply
• Name 5 pleasant sounds you hear
• Breathe slowly and deeply
• Name 5 pleasant things you can physically feel
• Breathe slowly and deeply
• Name 5 colors you see in the room
• Breathe slowly and deeply
The goal of this activity is to limit intrusive thoughts about the trauma; to redirect attention to the outside world.
Why It Helps: This exercise calms children and brings them into the “here and now” which is safer than the stress or trauma-related thoughts and feelings they may be experiencing. Calming helps bring their brain activity from hyper aroused to normal.
