When working with an escalated child a common reaction is to say, "calm down". Typically, telling someone to calm down has the opposite effect, and is unlikely to help them return to calmer and safer behavior. Calm is a behavior that needs to be taught by teaching the child what calm looks and feels like. A good starting point to teach a calm body. This is especially effective when the child engages in aggressive behavior when they are escalated.

The steps for a Calm Body should be practiced in moments of calm. This practice will make the student more likely to engage in the behavior when they are escalated. Use the visual provided to prompt the behaviors needed to achieve a Calm Body.