Helping Kids Manage Big Emotions with the Breathing Buddy
As a parent, you’ve probably been there—your child is overwhelmed, anxious, or on the verge of a meltdown, and no matter how many times you tell them to “take a deep breath,” it just doesn’t seem to help. That’s because for young kids, deep breathing can feel abstract. They need visual cues to guide them through the process.
That’s exactly why I love using the Breathing Buddy in therapy! It’s a simple, engaging tool that helps kids slow down, focus on their breath, and calm their bodies in a way that actually works.
Why Deep Breathing Works
Deep breathing is one of the most effective ways to calm the nervous system. It helps kids:
Lower their heart rate when they feel anxious or overwhelmed
Feel more in control of their emotions
Reset their body and mind before reacting
The problem? Most kids don’t know how to effectively use deep breathing in the heat of the moment. That’s where the Breathing Buddy comes in.
What is the Breathing Buddy?
The Breathing Buddy is a visual breathing cue that guides kids through slow, controlled breaths. It changes colors, prompting kids to breathe in during one color and breathe out when the color changes. No complicated instructions, no frustration—just press a button and breathe.
I love it because:
It’s engaging. The changing colors keep kids focused.
It’s simple. No need for explanations—just follow the colors.
It works in the moment. Whether your child is feeling overwhelmed at home, in the car, or at school, they can grab their Breathing Buddy and start calming down immediately.
How to Use the Breathing Buddy at Home
Helping kids build the habit of deep breathing takes practice! Here’s how you can incorporate the Breathing Buddy into your child’s daily routine:
Morning Reset: Start the day with a few calming breaths before heading to school.
Big Emotion Moments: When your child is upset, encourage them to grab their Breathing Buddy and follow the color cues.
Bedtime Wind-Down: Use it to relax and settle their body before sleep.
On-the-Go Calm Down: Bring it in the car, to school, or anywhere they might need a quick reset.
Grab Your Breathing Buddy Here!
If your child struggles with big emotions, transitions, or anxiety, the Breathing Buddy is a game-changer. It gives kids the tools they need to self-regulate in a way that makes sense to them.
Ready to help your child feel more in control of their emotions? Grab your Breathing Buddy here
