Calm Down Time (Toddler Tools Series) – Gentle Board Book for Toddlers (Ages 1-3 yrs) | Build Self-Soothing & Emotional Regulation Skills | by Free Spirit Publishing

Calm-Down Time is a gentle Toddler Tools® board book written by Elizabeth Verdick and illustrated by Marieka Heinlen, published by Free Spirit Publishing. It is designed for toddlers ages 1–3 and helps young children understand strong emotions and learn simple ways to calm themselves.

The book addresses the difficult moments that can come with meltdowns, frustration, and tantrums. Rather than treating these feelings as bad behavior, it gives toddlers simple, reassuring tools for expressing their emotions and settling their bodies. Children are introduced to the idea of a calm-down place, where they can take a quiet break, cry, ask for a hug, sing, be comforted by a grown-up, talk about their feelings, and practice breathing.

With rhythmic text and warm illustrations, the book encourages early emotional-regulation skills and reassures children that after taking time to calm down, they can return to play feeling better. The book also includes tips for parents and caregivers, making it useful for building positive calming routines at home or in childcare settings.