Calming Sequence for the Cardinalsaurs

The Cardinalsaur group has been working on learning a basic 3 point scale for emotional regulation and how to use the visual cue for the Turtle Technique to calm. The 3 point scale is a modified version of Kari Dunn Buron's 5 Point Scale technique. The kids learn to identify their feelings and then take steps to move to a calmer level. Once they are at a calmer level, they can begin to problem solve with adult help.

The Turtle Technique comes from the book Tucker Turtle Takes Time to Tuck & Think by Rochelle Lentini. A Powerpoint that contains the scripted story can be found at http://www.challengingbehavior.org/do/resources/teaching_tools/ttyc_toc.htm.

The Turtle Technique contains 3 calming steps.
1. Stop and keep your hands, feet, and yelling to yourself.
2. Tuck and take 3 deep breaths. (Some students physically tuck their heads inside their shirts, sit under a piece of furniture, or in a calm corner. Other students just close their eyes or lay their head down on the desk).
3.  Think of a way to solve your problem and make yourself feel better or ASK FOR HELP.

Feel free to print the image to use at home. It is also available under the calming tools page on the sidebar. Ask your child to teach you how to tuck and use the Turtle Technique. Please praise and reinforce your child whenever he or she attempts to use the technique instead of tantrumming at home. 

Please let me know if you have any questions!