When there are known triggers, like transitions, fatigue, hunger, overstimulation, or change, the Calming Kit can be used proactively.

This is the Pause phase: noticing early signs of overwhelm and supporting regulation before emotions escalate. Sensory tools help calm the nervous system through the body, reducing overload before it turns into a meltdown.

The cards are often used here through the simple games inside the deck. They help children learn to recognise emotions and practise safe ways to express them, building skills they can draw on later.

When emotions are very big, the priority is supporting the body first.

This is the Play phase: focusing on connection and safety rather than reasoning or correction. For some children, that means offering a sensory tool to interrupt overwhelm and help the nervous system settle.

For others, or at later stages of their regulation journey, the cards may feel more supportive. Looking through them together can help identify what they’re feeling and choose what might help next, creating teamwork, choice, and a sense of control.

There’s no fixed order and no right or wrong approach. What helps will change over time. Trust your instinct and meet your child where they are.

Once the intensity has passed, the nervous system is still settling.

This is the Grow phase: recovery, reconnection, and gentle learning, without consequences, shame, or lectures.

Sensory tools can continue to support the body back to baseline. When it feels right, the cards can be used to reflect on what was felt and what helped, building understanding and emotional skills over time.

This phase is where regulation is strengthened for the future, through safety, repetition, and calm experiences.