Mental Health Activities: How to Make a Calm-Down Bottle

When young children become overwhelmed or upset, sensory activities can help them calm down and regulate their emotions. These activities encourage kids to be present in the moment.

Calm-down or sparkle bottles are both fun to make and easy to transport! This means they’re a kid-friendly tool you can use anywhere to help your child manage emotions and stress. This emotional activity for preschoolers helps foster healthy emotional awareness and regulation.

Supplies You’ll Need

• An empty clear plastic bottle

• Clear or colored glue (can use glitter glue)

• Mix-ins: glitter, sequins, small toys, beads (the lighter the better)

• Water

• Super glue

• Optional: food coloring

Instructions

• Set aside uninterrupted time to do this activity with your child. If possible, choose a quiet place where you will not be interrupted. Put aside your phone (and have your child put aside their electronics, too).

• Make the calm-down bottle

  • Fill the bottom of your bottle with glue (¼ - ½ cup)

  • Have your child add mix-ins and food coloring - be creative and have fun!

  • Fill the rest of the bottle with water

  • Place superglue around the lit and screw tightly. Let dry completely before letting your child handle it.

• Encourage your child to play with the bottle. Point out to them how the glitter swirls. Encourage them to notice different colors or objects they added.

• How to use the calm-down bottle to help your child be calm

  • When your child starts to become upset, shake the bottle and have your child focus on watching the glitter swirl and settle.

  • Incorporate the calm-down bottle into daily activities. For example, if your child does not like to wash their hands, turn over the bottle and have them wash their hands until the glitter settles.