The Ultimate Tween Anxiety Toolkit: Helping Your Child Cope in Stressful Moments

As parents, we understand that life is not always smooth—particularly for children these days in our fast-paced world. Tweens are in a unique position where they are facing school stresses, shifting friends, and enormous emotions that are just too much at times. Tweens’ anxieties can manifest in so many ways—pre-school stomachaches, night waking, irritability, or lack of concentration.

One of the most effective ways to assist your tween is to establish an Emergency Anxiety Toolkit—a small collection of soothing tools that they can turn to when overwhelming emotions hit. Having resources and strategies on hand enables tweens to take control of their emotions, become more resilient, and develop self-calm behaviors.

Below are some parent-approved products that can make your child feel more balanced when anxiety hits.

1. Squishy Toys – Stress Relief in the Palm of Their Hand

Squishy toys provide instant sensory relief by giving your child something safe and fun to squeeze. They’re perfect for releasing tension and redirecting restless energy.

• NeeDoh Squishy Ball – Classic stress ball option

• Dream Squishy Drop–Another popular stress toy for sensory needs

• Oreo Squishy Toy – A playful, discreet fidget for school or at home

2. Fidgets – Focus & Calm on the Go

Fidgets can help tweens who struggle with focus, nervous energy, or the urge to keep their hands busy. They’re portable, discreet, and can be used at school, during homework, or in public settings.

• Spiky Rings – Great for grounding and tactile input

• Textured Fidget Pads – Engaging textures to explore

• Fidget Ball Set with Case – Compact and travel-friendly

3. Sensory Comforts – Engaging the Senses to Soothe the Mind

Anxiety often eases when kids can engage their senses in calming ways. Sensory comforts can make a big difference in helping tweens reset emotionally.

• Weighted Blanket – Provides gentle, calming pressure

• Lavender Aromatherapy Spray – Natural calming scent for relaxation

• Plush Stuffed Animal – A cozy, cuddly comfort item

• Noise-Canceling Headphones – Blocks out overwhelming sounds

• YumEarth Organic Sour Candies – A sweet (and safe) way to distract and ground

Helping Your Tween Build Coping Skills

While tools like these are wonderful for providing relief in the moment, the bigger goal is teaching your tween healthy coping strategies. Encourage them to notice what works best when they’re feeling anxious. Over time, your child will begin to develop confidence in their ability to manage tough feelings.

Tips for Parents:

• Keep the toolkit accessible (a small box, pouch, or desk drawer works great).
• Practice using the items before your child feels anxious, so they know what to expect.
• Pair the toolkit with calming strategies like deep breathing, positive affirmations, or grounding exercises.

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