How to Encourage Self-Soothing in Toddlers
Self-soothing is an important part of toddler development as it allows them to learn to regulate their own emotions. With the right tools and guidance, toddlers can be taught how to practice effective self-soothing techniques. Encouraging self-soothing in toddlers can help them learn skills that will support them later in life.
It’s important to understand that toddlers are learning about the world around them and this can be overwhelming. It is your job as a parent to provide them with the necessary support and encouragement they need to learn self-soothing skills. Guide your toddler in calming down and staying regulated by providing them with a safe and secure environment and making sure they receive enough rest and proper nutrition.
By introducing your toddler to self-soothing techniques early, they will learn how to deal with their emotions in a positive way. You can start by encouraging your toddler to use calming words such as “relax” and “breathe”. Other activities such as reading stories, singing songs, or playing calming music can also be beneficial in helping them manage their feelings.
Teach Coping Skills
Teaching your toddler coping skills such as deep breathing, counting to ten, and even taking a break can help them self-soothe.Explaining to your toddler why these activities are important and showing them how to do it can help them understand and use them effectively. You can also introduce them to activities such as coloring, listening to music, and playing with toys to help them relax and practice calming themselves down.
By incorporating these activities into your toddler’s routine, you are teaching them how to cope with difficult emotions in a healthy way. Encourage your toddler to explore their emotions by talking about them and allowing them to express themselves freely. You should also be open about your own feelings and discuss with them in an age-appropriate way.
Create a Routine
Creating an effective routine is key to helping your toddler learn self-soothing techniques. Introducing structure, such as regular meal and nap times, can provide security and help toddlers feel safe. Having a set bedtime routine can also work wonders, as soothing activities such as a warm bath, a story, or connecting with their parents can help them relax and self-soothe.
For busy toddlers, yoga and meditation can help create a sense of calm. There are many toddler-focused yoga and meditation programs that can help your little one practice self-soothing techniques in a positive way. Learning more about these skills in a group setting can help toddlers learn and practice in a safe, supportive environment.
If you have a hard time setting a routine for your toddler, try to focus on one activity at a time. This allows them to focus on one task and get it done, rather than trying to juggle multiple activities and becoming overwhelmed. Encouraging them to take breaks and be mindful of their emotions will also help them manage their feelings and learn to self-soothe.
Relaxation Tools
Provide your toddler with a wide variety of tools and activities that can help them relax and self-soothe. You might want to consider the following:
- Stuffed animals and plush toys
- Music, books, or stories
- Exercise and sports
- Coloring books
- Storytelling discs
- Bubble baths
- Board games
By providing your toddler with a wide range of tools, they will learn to choose which activities help them best soothe and relax. Keeping the environment calm and providing your toddler with positive reinforcements can also go a long way in helping them embrace self-soothing techniques.
Conclusion
Encouraging self-soothing in toddlers is essential for them to develop healthy coping skills later in life. By providing tools and guidance, you can help nurture and support your toddler as they learn how to effectively deal with overwhelming emotions. Through play, a supportive environment, and relaxation tools, your toddler will be able to master the art of self-soothing and regulation.