My Soothing Sensory Box

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	Advanced
	Age: 4-6
	Preparation: 3 days, updating throughout the school year
	Children create a sensory box to use for calming and relaxation. The activity introduces children to tools that can help them calm down and relax.
	Self-regulation
	Cognitive task Conversation Storytelling
	Large or wheeled box or chest Tactile balls and squeeze rings Scented sachets Calming nature images Mandalas for coloring Picture books or calming images Sensory timers Tai chi ball Kaleidoscope Sensory bags Breathing strip or tape Other available sensory materials

Preparation

The teacher prepares a larger or wheeled box and fills it with a selection of sensory materials. If some items are not available, similar calming or tactile materials can be used instead.

Implementation

The teacher brings a large box or chest filled with sensory materials into the play area.

Children are invited to open the box, explore the objects, and touch, smell, and observe them.

The teacher encourages the children to describe how each object feels and what it reminds them of.

Creating the Soothing Box

Exploring Sensory Materials

Children take time to explore and experiment with the sensory items. The teacher guides them to notice how different materials, textures, scents, or visuals make them feel calm, curious, or happy.

Selecting Personal Favorites

Each child selects a few items they find most soothing or comforting. These are placed together in the sensory box.

Once completed, the box is placed in a quiet calming corner or area dedicated to social and emotional learning, where children can use it whenever they need to relax or regain focus.

Variations and Additional Ideas

The teacher and children can add different sensory didactic materials.

Worksheet "Calming Strategies"

Smell a flower and breathe in and out	Ask for a hug	Talk to a trusted adult
Breathe in and out	Cuddle a toy	Stretch
Draw	Squeeze a soft ball	Count to 5 and tell how you feel