This activity will help you create a “go-to” box or bag filled with the coping skills, or ways to take care of your feelings, that work best for you. You can “go to” this box or bag when you feel overwhelmed or are experiencing challenging emotions, so you can easily find and remember ways to help you take care of your feelings and cope with them in healthy ways.

Brainstorm:

1. Have you noticed any challenging or uncomfortable feelings recently?

2. How did you take care of your feelings or what coping skills did you or could you use?

Materials: 

• Bag or Box (maybe a cardboard box or shopping bag)

• Found materials

• Paper and pen or pencil

• Favorite drawing supplies (crayons, markers, colored pencils, etc.)

Directions:

1. Read the brainstorm questions (above) and take some time to answer them for yourself.

2. Find or decorate a bag or box for your Coping Skills Toolbox.

3. Find and collect objects or write/draw things that represent your favorite coping skills from each of the following categories:

4. Optional: Share your Coping Skills Toolbox with someone!  Share with them how you are feeling and how you are coping with or taking care of your feelings.