Six Ways To Calm Your Worrying

Who:

Autistic children and neurodivergent learners who experience “thought loops,” sensory-driven anxiety, or difficulty transitioning away from distressing topics.

What:

This is a structured visual guide designed to make the abstract concept of “worry” more concrete and manageable. It breaks down emotional regulation into six clear, actionable steps—ranging from physical “sensory breaks” to scheduled “worry windows.” It is a perfect addition to a “calm-down corner” or a home-school communication folder.

Why:

For many autistic children, anxiety isn’t just a feeling; it’s a physical and cognitive overwhelm that can lead to burnout or meltdowns. By using this handout, you provide a predictable framework for handling big emotions. It moves away from vague advice like “just relax” and replaces it with logic-based strategies (like problem-solving) and sensory-based strategies (like calming the body) that respect the way a neurodivergent mind processes the world.