17/02/2026
I know lots of parents are relating to this as Term 1 is in full swing. Release the fizz slowly!
Ever noticed how a child can “hold it together” all day… then explode at home? It is also relevant for us as adults.
This is one of my favourite ways to explain why that happens — and it’s simple enough to do with a real Coke bottle.
Sit with your child and pass the bottle back and forth.
As you talk about their day, gently shake it each time a stress or trigger comes up. Share your own triggers also.
Noise. Work pressure. Friendship stuff. Trying to behave. Trying not to cry.
Then pause and ask:
“What do you think will happen if I take the top off now?”
That moment matters.
It helps children see that the explosion isn’t about being naughty or out of control — it’s about pressure building with nowhere to go.
From there, you can explore the real question:
How do we take the lid off without an explosion?
We talk about letting the bottle settle first.
Deep breathing.
Quiet time.
Food.
Movement.
Connection.
Time to decompress.
Regulation isn’t about forcing calm.
It’s about releasing pressure safely — a little at a time.
👉 You can find The Coke Bottle Activity linked in the comments below ⬇️ or via Linktree Shop in Bio.
I’d love to know — what “shakes the bottle” most for your child after school?
