Bin 14: Carl's Crate
PBS KIDS's new show Carl the Collector features the first main character with autism in a PBS KIDS series. In this show, Carl and his friends—both neurodivergent and neurotypical—collaborate, play, and discover what makes each of them unique. 'Carl's Crate' has been designed with input from the North Dakota Autism Center and pediatric specialists at Sanford Health to be versatile and effective to provide children with tools for emotional regulation and calming during stressful or overwhelming moments. In this bin you can find: visual calming aids (like liquid motion toys), breathing exercises, mindfulness tools, and soft stress-relief items like plush toys, sensory mats and Purrble.
Early Learning Standards Met:
North Dakota - Social and Emotional Development Language, Communication, & Literacy
Minnesota - Social and Emotional Development Approaches to Learning
Do Together
Ideas for how to use this bin:
- Set Up a Quiet Space: Place the tent in a calm area of the room, away from distractions, where the child can retreat when needed.
- Introduce the Bin: Show the child the calming bin and explain it’s a space to use when feeling upset or overwhelmed.
- Explore Together: Let the child explore the items in the bin, which include soft fabrics, squishy toys, and calming lights.
- Practice Self-Regulation: Encourage the child to use the items to calm down, demonstrating techniques like deep breathing.
- Respect Their Time: Allow the child to use the bin as long as they need, and ask them how they feel afterward to reflect on the experience.
Watch or Play Together
Use this media connection to spark interest, model skills and approaches, or explore a concept:
Talk and Wonder Together
Maximize learning using these prompts during or after the activities:
- How do you feel today? Can you show me with your face or your body?
- What’s your favorite thing to do?
- What sounds do you like? Which ones are too loud?
- Do you like to play with other kids, or do you prefer playing by yourself?
- Would you like a break? Let me know if you need one.
Explore More Resource Bins
