Children (5-7) Coping Menus

Children between the ages of 5 and 7 experience emotions and body sensations very intensely and often need simple, concrete support to feel safe and regulated.

At this age, coping tools work best when they are:

  • gentle
  • sensory-based
  • short and clear
  • guided by a trusted adult

Coping Menus for Ages 5–7

These coping menus are designed specifically for children ages 5–7, with simple language, clear visuals, and activities that are appropriate for this stage of development.

They are designed to be used with the support of a trusted adult, such as a:

  • parent or caregiver
  • educator or school staff member
  • support person helping a child regulate, reset, or feel more settled

Choose the menu that best fits what the child needs in the moment. There is no need to complete every activity. One activity may be enough.

Emotional Support Coping Menu

Gentle activities that help children feel supported when emotions feel big or overwhelming. This menu can help a child with FND slow things down, feel reassured, and connect with a trusted adult during difficult moments.

Evening Calm Coping Menu

Quiet activities designed to help children gradually wind down at the end of the day. For children with FND, reducing stimulation and creating a calmer transition toward rest can be helpful when their nervous system has had a busy or demanding day.

Heavy Regulation Coping Menu

Simple activities that use safe, comfortable pressure or resistance, such as pushing, squeezing, or using something cozy and weighted. These activities can provide strong, predictable body input that may help some children with FND feel more grounded and settled.

High Energy Reset Coping Menu

Short activities for times when a child feels restless, wound up, or full of energy. This menu gives children with FND safe ways to use movement and then gradually shift toward a more regulated pace without expecting them to suddenly become still.

Movement Coping Menu

Gentle, age-appropriate ways to move the body through simple actions and play. For children with FND, this menu offers supportive opportunities for movement without pressure, competition, or a focus on performing movements perfectly.

Quiet Focus Coping Menu

Simple activities that gently direct attention toward something calm and manageable. This menu can help children with FND shift their attention when symptoms, sensations, emotions, or a busy environment are becoming difficult to manage.

Severe Sensory Reset Coping Menu

Low-demand activities for times when sensory input feels like too much. This menu can help a child with FND reduce stimulation, create a quieter environment, and feel supported while their nervous system has time to settle.

You Don’t Have to Get It Perfect

Supporting a young child with FND can take patience, flexibility, and time. Some coping tools may help on one day and feel less helpful on another, and that is okay.

You do not need to find the perfect activity or fix every difficult moment. Offering your child a safe choice, staying nearby, and responding with patience and reassurance can be meaningful support.

Small moments of safety, connection, and understanding matter.

These coping menus are educational and supportive resources and are not a substitute for medical care, diagnosis, treatment, or individualized advice from a qualified healthcare professional. Activities should be adapted to the child’s needs and abilities and used with appropriate adult supervision.

If you have concerns about your child’s symptoms, safety, or health, please contact their healthcare provider.