My Calm-Down Plan (Kids)
A child-friendly plan created with a caregiver that lists warning signs of big feelings, chosen calm-down tools, a calm spot and helpful adults at home and school.
2-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Emotion regulation
- Approach / concern
- For Kids
- Technique
- Emotion regulation
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 2 pages (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the My Calm-Down Plan (Kids)?
A calm-down plan is a personalized coping plan for children that identifies early warning signs of dysregulation, preferred calming strategies and supportive adults. It is often paired with a calm corner at home or in the classroom.
Why it works
Recognizing emotions and having concrete coping strategies are key emotion-regulation skills in childhood (Southam-Gerow & Kendall, 2002). Involving caregivers and practising when calm are core features of CBT with children (Kendall & Hedtke, 2006).
When to use it
- Children aged about 4-11
- Meltdowns, anger and anxiety
- School behaviour plans
- Parent coaching
How to use it in session
- Complete the plan together when calm.
- Use the child’s language and drawings.
- Practise each tool regularly.
- Share with school if appropriate.
- Review after difficult moments and celebrate successes.
Clinician tips
- Keep tools concrete and playful.
- Adults co-regulating calmly matter more than any tool.
- Avoid using the calm spot as punishment.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
At what age can children use a calm-down plan?
From about age 4, with adult support. Older children can take more ownership.
What if my child won’t use the plan in the moment?
That’s common. Keep practising when calm and model the tools yourself.
References
Kendall, P. C., & Hedtke, K. A. (2006). Cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxious children: Therapist manual (3rd ed.). Workbook Publishing.
Southam-Gerow, M. A., & Kendall, P. C. (2002). Emotion regulation and understanding: Implications for child psychopathology and therapy. Clinical Psychology Review, 22(2), 189-222.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
