Little humans, big emotions and I don’t have all the answers.
As someone in my 50s, I grew up in a world where parents handled things very differently than today. Think Cartman and “Respect mah athoritayyy!” Now as a grandparent, I can only say how grateful I am for the way many modern parents approach parenting. And as someone who occasionally is there to “help”, I find myself googling like mad to learn the best way to handle all the big emotions that come along with those sweet babies. I do not have all the answers. I’m not sure anyone does. It is a constant learning process and each child is, get this…..their OWN person with different personalities, likes, dislikes and responses to their world. I know, I know, SHOCKER. But the first step in any of it is learning to control my OWN big feelings. And when you get bopped on the head by an angry toddler, sometimes that isn’t the easiest thing to do. At home, I have taken to using things like my little fidget items when I am thinking, or stressed. This poor Needo squishy has been through it! So take a deep breath Gigi and remember the little one is still learning. All over the interwebs you will find different suggestions to help them learn to regulate emotions, but one really seemed to click with me. Sensory bottles, also known as “calm-down jars” that you can buy or even make. The theory is that when littles are having big feelings, watching the items inside the jars (glitter, beads, etc) can be calming and give them a few minutes to focus on something else. I think I’ll give it a try. I’ll add some instructions here but it is something you can really make your own way. Just make sure that top is secure lol.
Calm-Down Jars
Choose any clear, plastic bottle with a tight fitting lid. Consider a size appropriate for your little’s hands.
Fill the bottle halfway, or less, with items of your choosing. Suggestions are glitter, sequins, beads, small toys even shells, small stones, the possibilities are wide. Make sure everything is washed thoroughly to help inhibit mold growth. Don’t use organic things (flowers, leaves, etc) to help avoid mold as well.
Add the liquid of your choice. Water will eventually cause mold without a preservative. If you choose water, use distilled water, at minimum. You can try adding a spoon of bleach or vinegar to inhibit mold growth and then keep an eye out for clouding. You can always redo it it when that happens.
Other options are mineral oil, clear glue/water mixture and I have seen hair gel mentioned.
Using gel, or adding clear glue or corn syrup mixed with water will cause the items to flow slower, a cool effect.
Add a little food coloring to the mix if you want a pop of color.
Then seal the lid tight with super glue, E6000 or hot glue. I intend to use both, better safe than sorry.
Alternately, you can add items with sand instead of liquid. Kiddos can seek and find the items inside.
If you make one of these, post pics in the comment of this post on my facebook, I would love to see!