When it comes to dealing with emotions it can often be difficult for children to express how they feel. These rice filled stress balloons work the same way as a stress ball. The difference is they are fun and cute to look at.
Super easy to make and very little supplies needed. All you need is;
- Rice (uncooked of course!)
- Balloons (larger balloons work better)
- A funnel
- A jug for pouring rice
- Permanent marker
- Paper with different emotions (optional)
When putting the rice into the balloons use a funnel for ease. Place the balloon around the end of the funnel. It sometimes will get stuck in the funnel so its best to do it over the jug once the rice has been poured.
Fill the balloon until it reaches the top. You may need to push the rice down a bit to make more room in the balloon. Then once you can no longer fit anymore rice in, tie a knot to secure. Now you’re ready to draw your faces.
Coming Up With Emotions
I got the kids to tell me some emotions that they feel. I put questions to them and asked how do you feel when..? We came up with 8 and stuck with that. We made;
- Happy
- Sad
- Mad
- Scared
- Shy
- Surprised
- Tired
- Silly
These are a great stress relief for kids as well as a fidget tool. Sometimes kids find it hard to sit still or even keep their hands still. These balloons are a great little tool for that.
Check out these printable play dough mats that are a great tool for helping kids to recognize their emotions.
Can be used with play dough or dry erase markers.
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