What should actually go in the box?

A good box usually includes something to squeeze, something to look at, something quiet to listen to and a comfort item, but the right mix depends on the child. During the session we'll work through choosing contents that suit your own child rather than a generic list.

Isn't this the same as sending a child to time-out?

No — a calm-down box is offered as a self-chosen tool for regulation, not used as a consequence or punishment. We spend time in the session on the language and approach that keeps it feeling supportive rather than like being sent away.

What supplies do I need for the in-person session?

Everything needed to build and decorate the box is provided, including the box itself and a selection of contents to choose from. For the online session, a simple materials list is sent in advance so you can use a shoebox or similar container and household items.

Will my child actually use it?

Children are far more likely to use a calm-down box when they've helped choose or decorate it and when it's introduced calmly rather than only brought out mid-meltdown. We cover exactly how to build that habit during the workshop.

Is one box enough for more than one child?

Siblings often have quite different regulation preferences, so a shared box can work but tends to work better once each child has at least one or two personal items inside it. We'll talk through options for households with more than one child.

Hands-on make & take

Creating Calm-Down Boxes

A calm-down box gives a child a physical, predictable place to go when big feelings arrive, rather than relying on a stressed adult to think of the right thing in the moment. In this workshop you'll design and decorate your own box, choose contents that genuinely help regulation, and learn how to introduce it so it becomes a trusted part of your child's routine rather than an ignored corner of a room.

Led by Amy Byrne — BA (Hons) Level 8 in Early Childhood Education and Care, currently studying a Level 9 postgraduate in play therapy, Children First trained and a Mandated Person. One hour, with a take-home booklet and a dated certificate of attendance.

See dates & book Request this as a private session

Who this is for

For parents and educators of children aged roughly two to eight who want a consistent, child-led way to support emotional regulation at home or in a setting.

What we cover in the hour

Why a calm-down box supports self-regulation rather than suppressing feelings.
How to choose contents based on a child's individual regulation preferences.
The difference between a calm-down box and a time-out, and why that distinction matters.
How to decorate and label the box so a child recognises it as theirs.
Scripts for introducing the box calmly, before it's ever needed in a crisis.
Where to keep the box so it's accessible without being a distraction.

What you'll leave with

A fully assembled and decorated calm-down box to bring home that day.
A short list of five to seven contents chosen for your child's specific regulation style.
Simple, warm language for introducing the box during a calm moment.
A one-page routine for using the box consistently.
Ideas for refreshing contents as your child's needs change.

Inside the booklet

The booklet includes a contents checklist, introduction scripts, and ideas for seasonal refreshes to the box.

This workshop links to the Aistear theme of Well-Being and supports Síolta Standard 1 (Rights of the Child) by respecting each child's own way of managing big feelings.

How it can be delivered

Delivery formats and prices for Creating Calm-Down Boxes
Format	Price
Public ticket — live onlineOne hour, small group, booklet emailed	€20 per person
Public ticket — in personOne hour in a venue near you, booklet in hand	€35 per person
Private 1:1 with Amy30 minutes €25 · full hour €50 (3 for €135)	from €25
Private group — onlineParent evening or staff session, minimum 5	€35 per person
Private group — in personYour setting or venue, minimum 6	€45 per person

No VAT and no booking fees. An itemised receipt is emailed instantly, and invoices are available before you book. Running this across a whole setting? Setting packages start at €399.

Common questions

What should actually go in the box?: A good box usually includes something to squeeze, something to look at, something quiet to listen to and a comfort item, but the right mix depends on the child. During the session we'll work through choosing contents that suit your own child rather than a generic list.
Isn't this the same as sending a child to time-out?: No — a calm-down box is offered as a self-chosen tool for regulation, not used as a consequence or punishment. We spend time in the session on the language and approach that keeps it feeling supportive rather than like being sent away.
What supplies do I need for the in-person session?: Everything needed to build and decorate the box is provided, including the box itself and a selection of contents to choose from. For the online session, a simple materials list is sent in advance so you can use a shoebox or similar container and household items.
Will my child actually use it?: Children are far more likely to use a calm-down box when they've helped choose or decorate it and when it's introduced calmly rather than only brought out mid-meltdown. We cover exactly how to build that habit during the workshop.
Is one box enough for more than one child?: Siblings often have quite different regulation preferences, so a shared box can work but tends to work better once each child has at least one or two personal items inside it. We'll talk through options for households with more than one child.

Related workshops

More in this theme: Emotional regulation · All workshop themes · Upcoming dates

Available live online across Ireland, and in person in Dublin, Kildare, Meath, Wicklow, Louth, Cork and other counties.

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Every workshop is grounded in Irish early years frameworks and national guidance.

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