At Small World Child Care, we understand that learning to navigate big emotions is an important skill for young children. That’s why we use tools like the Solution Suitcase to help guide our little ones through their feelings in a healthy and constructive way.
The Solution Suitcase is a simple, four-step process that empowers children to recognize their emotions, pause before reacting, and choose a positive way to respond. Let’s break it down:
Step 1: Identify the Emotion
The first step is helping children name what they’re feeling. Are they mad, sad, frustrated, or scared? Giving emotions a name helps children understand what’s going on inside and lays the groundwork for managing those feelings.
Step 2: Stop Yourself
When emotions run high, it’s easy to react impulsively. This step encourages children to pause and take control by imagining a stop sign or even saying “Stop!” out loud. It’s a simple but powerful way to interrupt impulsive reactions.
Step 3: Tuck & Take Deep Breaths
To calm their bodies and minds, we teach children to tuck into a comforting position and take deep breaths. This physical cue, combined with intentional breathing, helps reduce tension and creates a sense of calm.
Step 4: Think of a Solution
Once they’re calm, children are encouraged to brainstorm ways to solve the problem. Whether it’s sharing a toy, asking for help, or finding a quiet space, this step fosters problem-solving skills and independence.
Why Emotional Regulation Matters
Teaching children how to manage their emotions not only supports their mental well-being but also sets them up for success in social situations and learning environments. With tools like the Solution Suitcase, we can help them build confidence and resilience to face challenges now and in the future.
We encourage you to try these steps at home! Talk with your child about the Solution Suitcase and practice using it together when big feelings arise. Together, we can help your child develop lifelong emotional skills.



