Creative Ways to Help Kids Relax: Pinwheels, Paper Boats, and Fun Therapies

As a psychologist, one of the most gratifying aspects of my work is discovering and creating fun and crafty ways to help children relax and feel at ease in their environments. Typically, relaxation isn't just about quiet time; it’s about finding joy and connecting to interests while nurturing a child's unique needs.

The Play of Pinwheels

Pinwheels might seem like simple toys, but their therapeutic value can be immense. They offer a sensory experience that engages sight, touch, and even proprioception. Children can be encouraged to blow on a pinwheel to make it spin. This activity is not only easy and fun but also helps regulate breathing.

The pinwheel seems like a “magical calming device.” Watching the pinwheel spin can act as a fun reward, making relaxation a fun game instead of a chore. Deep, focused breathing—without the pressure of doing it in a certain format—can be calming for children who feel overwhelmed. Watching the colorful pinwheel spin also provides a sense of achievement.
For kids who struggle with motor coordination, pinwheels can be a fantastic way to build those skills while having fun. Parents can also try this at home: making a pinwheel together as a craft activity and then using it as a calming tool during tense moments.

Sailing with Paper Boats

Making paper boats together can be an equally fun bonding activity, especially for children who thrive on structure and step-by-step tasks. Once the boats are made, we can let the child sail them in a tub or basin of water or even outdoors. Some children enjoy adding pebbles or leaves to their boats, making the activity even more immersive. The gentle ripples in the water and the act of creating something with their hands can be incredibly soothing.

Fun Therapies That Work

Incorporating play into therapy is essential for our neurodivergent friends. This offers an incredible outlet for our kids. For instance, a child who is non-verbal can communicate through character play, using their favorite plushie to express frustration. Storytelling with stuffed animals or toys also allows kids to project their feelings onto the characters, giving them a safe space to explore emotions and build coping strategies.

Sand trays, sensory bins, and even bubble wrap are great options to explore textures, build stories, and release pent-up energy. The key is to let the child lead the play—their creativity often reveals the path to their relaxation. These moments of play are more than just activities; they’re bridges. They connect us to the child’s world, offering not just relaxation but also understanding and acceptance.

Sensory bins filled with rice, Legos, beads, beans, or sand provide a wonderful outlet for tactile exploration. Children can explore various textures, bury small toys, or trace patterns, which helps them ground themselves when they’re feeling overstimulated.
Art-based modalities like finger painting, slime play, or clay modeling allow them to express emotions in a non-verbal way, while also improving fine motor skills.

Whether it’s through pinwheels, paper boats, or playful therapies, these activities create moments of calm and connection that can make all the difference.

Reference:
https://www.thetherapistparent.com/post/fun-relaxation

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