Summary: Supporting regulation through the five senses.
The 5–4–3–2–1 grounding technique is a simple method that settles a busy mind. It invites us to focus on what we can see, feel, hear, smell and taste, which brings the body back into the present. This can be particularly helpful for children who arrive dysregulated or anxious at the start of the school day.
Creative activity: Encourage children to design a small “calm card” showing each sense using colour, shape or simple symbols. These cards act as prompts children can return to whenever they need a moment of stillness. They also empower pupils by giving them a tool they can use independently. Small regulating practices like this can create calmer classrooms and more confident learners.
