Movement, Sensory & Calming Break Cards – Visual Choice Boards for Kids & Teens

Support emotional regulation and sensory needs with ease using these ready-to-use break card visuals.

Created by an occupational therapist and mom, this printable toolkit helps children and teens recognize when they need a break—and gives them empowering choices for how to self-regulate.

💛 Perfect For:

• Children & teens who struggle with emotional regulation

• Sensory seekers or kids who experience overwhelm

• Autistic learners, kids with ADHD, or anyone needing more structure

• Parents, teachers, and therapists supporting neurodivergent kids

🧠 What’s Included:

• ✅ 6-Option and 3-Option Break Choice Boards

• ✅ Over 100+ illustrated “I need a break” cards across 3 categories:

  • Movement Breaks (jumping jacks, trampoline, yoga, bear crawls…)

  • Sensory Breaks (playdough, weighted blankets, fidgets, music…)

  • Calming Breaks (deep breathing, reading, cuddles, quiet time…)

• ✅ Visual indicators for emotional and physical cues:
  (“You may need a break if you feel overwhelmed, too loud, too tired, or too wired.”)

🎯 Why It Works:

• Encourages communication for kids who struggle to express what they need

• Reduces meltdowns and dysregulation by offering proactive break choices

• Builds emotional literacy, independence, and self-awareness

• Can be used at home, in classrooms, therapy, or homeschool routines

📌 How to Use:

• Print and laminate the full deck or just the choice boards

• Create a visual break area at home or school

• Empower your child or client to pick the break that fits their body’s needs

❤️ Designed by Sara Anderson, OTD, OTR/L

As a neurodivergent mom and occupational therapist, I created this toolkit to help families, educators, and professionals give kids the tools they need to feel safe, calm, and supported—without the overwhelm.

📥 Instant Digital Download

This is a printable resource. No physical product will be shipped. You’ll receive a PDF file ready to print and use today.