The Cope-Cakes Coping Skills Pack is an innovative and interactive resource aimed at helping children develop healthy coping mechanisms for managing feelings such as anger, worry, and sadness. Inspired by the concept of a “cope-cake” (a cupcake filled with soothing strategies), this printable pack equips children with the understanding that, just like baking, they can select various ‘ingredients’ (coping skills) to feel better when emotions become overwhelming.
This engaging activity pack includes a variety of tools designed to assist children in distinguishing between healthy and unhealthy coping strategies:
- Cope-Cakes Social Story – An age-appropriate overview of coping skills.
- Coping Skills Poster/Colouring Sheet – Visual aids to reinforce calming strategies.
- My Cope-Cake Recipe Card – A creative way for children to choose their own coping strategies (e.g. deep breathing, speaking to an adult, physical activity).
- Healthy vs Unhealthy Coping Matching Game – An interactive game to match skills like “taking deep breaths” and “shouting”.
- “What is the Size?” Worksheet – A tool for helping children assess the intensity of their feelings and the effectiveness of coping tools.
- Printable Cope-Cake Dice Game – A fun way for children to practise recognising and selecting coping skills.
- Cut-and-stick Craft Activity – Create a bespoke Cope-Cake using their chosen calming strategies.
The pack encourages children to:
- Understand the concept of coping skills.
- Identify healthy versus unhealthy reactions.
- Formulate a personalised emotional regulation plan.
- Implement calming techniques during overwhelming moments.
- Reflect on strategies that provide a sense of safety, calmness, and control.
Ideal for use in primary school classrooms, nurture groups, and PSHE sessions, as well as therapy settings and support for children with autism or ADHD, this resource serves families and educators looking to instil vital coping strategies in children. The Cope-Cakes Coping Skills Pack fosters confidence, resilience, and emotional literacy—creating a foundation for positive emotional health, one cupcake at a time!
