Glitter Jars: Finding Calm in the Storm

Albie paused for a moment and stared at the sight.
The brilliant bold colors seemed to dance in the light.
They fell to the ground as they bounced off the rain.
They glittered and glimmered and calmed Albie's brain.

In The Angriest Monster on Mill Street, Albie watches as the colors from a rainbow swirl and settle into the raindrops after a storm. It’s like a giant-sized glitter jar, helping him calm the storm inside himself.

Glitter jars can be a powerful tool to help kids manage big emotions. When feelings like frustration, worry, or excitement take over, it can be hard to slow down. That’s where the glitter jar comes in. The swirling glitter represents all those jumbled-up thoughts and emotions. When kids shake the jar, it mimics the chaos they might feel inside. But as they watch the glitter slowly settle, it gives them a visual cue to take deep breaths, pause, and let their feelings settle too.

Want to make your own glitter jar? Here’s how:

Creating a Glitter Jar: (grownup supervision)

Materials:

• A clear, plastic jar with a tight-fitting lid
• Glitter (choose your favorite colors!)
• Hot Glue
• Baby Oil (clear)
• Food coloring

How to Make It:

• Fill half the jar with baby oil.
• Add a generous amount of glitter on top of the oil. You can mix different colors and sizes for a more captivating effect.
• In a separate container, mix water with a few drops of food coloring.
• Pour the newly colored water over the oil in your jar. Leave a bit of space at the top.
• Add some hot glue around the top edge of the jar and securely close the lid of the jar. Ensuring it is tightly sealed. (Ask a grownup for help!)

How to Use It:

You can use the glitter jar as a calming tool whenever you feel overwhelmed or need a moment of serenity.

• Hold the jar securely.
• Take a deep breath, inhaling slowly through the nose.
• As you exhale, gently shake the jar, watching the glitter come to life and imagining your thoughts and emotions in motion.
• Settle into a comfortable position and continue observing the glitter as it gradually settles.
• Breathe deeply, matching your breath to the rhythm of the glitter's descent.
• Allow yourself to feel a sense of calm and peace as the glitter settles completely.