Acupressure Tapping for Kids
EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) Acupressure Tapping is a gentle, evidence-based method that combines acupressure with positive affirmations to alleviate stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges. Designed specifically for kids, our tapping infographic offers an actionable way kids can manage their thoughts and feelings. Through simple tapping on specific points of the body, kids can learn to navigate their emotions, build resilience, and foster a sense of emotional well-being. Done with a parent, this technique can also strengthen parent-child bonding and trust.
HOW DOES EFT ACUPRESSURE TAPPING WORK?
The bilateral stimulation of acupressure points through tap can help us process complicated thoughts and feelings, and reinforce affirmations. The technique combines focused thinking with sensory activation to rewire thought and behavior patterns.
For this practice, bilateral stimulation is when both sides of the body are alternately engaged at specific acupressure points. Studies show that this can relieve stress and regulate the central nervous system.
This practice promotes emotional and behavioral regulation.
Co-regulation: When this practice is done with a parent, kids are given a supportive model to learn how to use the technique to manage thoughts and behaviors. There are also added benefits to the parent-child relationship such as increased bonding, trust, and confidence.
Self-regulation: Once kids know what to do, they can practice tapping independently as a way to manage their own overwhelming thoughts and behaviors.
Help kids learn and talk about thought and behavior patterns with this free worksheet! Find more free therapeutic activities for kids here.
Here’s how to do it:
STEP 1: Focused Thinking
Identify where the mind should focus during the tapping sequence. Sometimes the focus is simply on the tapping sensation! If targeting a particular challenge, remember to use (or encourage your child to use) specific language that identifies the core of the issue.
Focused thinking themes and examples:
QUIET: Quiet meditation or unstructured focused thinking can promote relaxation and mindfulness practice.
AFFIRMATION: Repeating positive affirmations while tapping through the sequence can help increase self-confidence and self-efficacy by replacing restrictive or negative thought patterns.
(Example: “I did my best on the math test today. Even though math is hard for me, I am smart and capable. I can ask for help if I need it. I have lots of strengths: kind, creative, funny.”)
SELF-ESTEEM: Using language specific to the child’s needs, kids can learn to accept their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without judgment while highlighting strengths, goals, and a positive path forward. Always begin and end with positive focused thoughts.
(Parent-Child Example: “You tried something new today. Maybe you felt a little left out at the birthday party. It can be hard to join a big group of kids. I am proud of you. You liked petting the cat at the party. You are good with animals. You are bright. Maybe tomorrow we can make pancakes—we love cooking together. You are a great kid.”)
ANXIETY: Using language specific to the child’s needs, kids can learn to acknowledge anxiety and add affirmations for comfort and relief.
(Parent-Child Example: “It has been a fun summer. It’s hard when good things come to an end. Starting something new can be scary. I get nervous sometimes too. But new things help us grow. Remember when you were nervous to start swimming lessons and now you swim like a fish? I wonder what you will learn at your new school. You are capable. I will be here for you.”)
Books are also a great way for kids to explore anxiety and coping skills. Check out our selection of picture books about anxiety!
STEP 2: Tapping
While practicing focused thinking (see above), use both pointer fingers to alternately tap each point 5-7 times :
side of hand near pinky
inner corner of brows
outer corner of brows
under eyes
under nose
under lower lip
under collar bones
under arm pits (cross your arms and give yourself a squeeze!)
top of head
Repeat the sequence as needed.
NOTE: Don’t get too caught up on the number of taps or the order of the sequence! The important part of the practice is self-empathy, sensory stimulation, mindfulness, and bonding—not counting!
A free printable version of this information is available in our Infographics Tab!
CLICK HERE to explore our pediatric mental and behavioral health infographics.
