Try this simple, kid-friendly technique to support children’s wellness.
Life moves fast — for kids, too. Between school, activities, friendships and family routines, children feel stress just like adults do. The difference? They’re still learning how to handle it.
The good news is that coping skills can be taught and practiced right at home. When you build these skills during calm, everyday moments, you’re giving your child tools they can use when big emotions show up.
That’s where the “Take 5 Moment” comes in. Created by the experts at On Our Sleeves, this simple, kid-friendly activity walks children through five easy steps to pause, check in and reset.
Here’s how it works:
1. Name one thing you need right now.
Start by helping your child pause and tune into their body and feelings.
You might ask:
- Are you hungry?
- Do you need a break?
- Do you want a hug?
This step builds self-awareness. When kids can name what they need, they’re better able to take care of themselves, even during tough moments.
2. Write down two things you can do when you’re upset.
Brainstorm some simple calming activities. These could be simple options like:
- Drawing or creating art
- Listening to music
- Playing outside or moving their body
- Reading a book or spending time with you
This step builds a list of healthy coping strategies your child can use anytime.
3. Think of three people who you can reach out to for support.
Help your child identify their “support circle.” It might be a parent, teacher, coach or friend. Knowing who they can go to builds connection and a sense of safety.
4. Take four deep breaths.
Sometimes the simplest tools are the most powerful.
Guide your child through slow, steady breathing:
- Inhale slowly
- Hold for a moment
- Exhale gently
Try doing it together. Deep breathing helps calm the body and mind, and it’s something kids can use anywhere.
5. Do a five senses awareness check-in.
This final step is all about grounding — bringing your child back to the present moment.
Ask them to notice:
- What do you see?
- What do you hear?
- What do you feel?
- What do you smell?
- What do you taste?
This “5 Senses” activity can interrupt anxious or overwhelming thoughts by focusing attention on what’s happening right now.
Make “Take 5” Part of Your Family’s Routine
Big emotions are part of growing up — tantrums, worries, frustration and everything in between. But with practice, kids can learn how to manage them in healthy ways.
Try incorporating “Take 5” into your daily routine:
- After school
- Before bedtime
- During a calm moment on the weekend
You can even turn it into a fun family habit — because mental health matters for everyone.
The team at On Our Sleeves, powered by Dayton Children’s Hospital, has created a free “Take 5” journal page to help you get started. Scan the QR code to download, then fill it out together and hang it somewhere visible as a daily reminder.
Small moments like these can make a big difference. When kids learn to pause, reflect and reach out, they’re building skills that will support their mental health for years to come.
Want more simple, expert-backed tools? Visit childrensdayton.org/onoursleeves to join the movement and get more free resources straight to your inbox. Every tool is designed to help families talk about mental health in kid-friendly ways, right at home.
