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15 Must-Have Products for Managing Behavioral Issues in Kids: Ideas for the Parent Who Has Tried Everything

  • Writer: Michelle Kral
    Michelle Kral
  • Apr 21
  • 8 min read

Updated: Apr 29

Finding effective tools to manage behavioral issues can greatly ease the parenting journey. The products listed here span games, planners, and organizational tools designed to foster emotional intelligence and good behavior. Implementing these continued strategies not only promotes positive habits in kids but also nurtures skills that last a lifetime. Remember, every child is unique. Explore these options to determine which best suits your family’s needs.




A Reward Chart is an established strategy for promoting positive behavior. By monitoring accomplishments and incentivizing constructive actions, children can visually observe their progress. This method not only instills a sense of achievement but also reduces household frustration. Studies indicate that children are more inclined to repeat desirable behaviors when they receive prompt rewards, rendering this chart an invaluable resource for parents.


This bestselling reward chart on Amazon is a great way to get started. It's customizable, easy to use, and 99% of the work has been done for you. It comes with over 100 pre-written and illustrated stickers representing different behaviors and chores. The colors and illustrations are great for younger kids and non-readers. There are also options for one child or multiple children.



Social Emotional Board Games can be entertaining and educational. They teach children about making choices, teamwork, and good behavior through playful interactions. Not only do they capture kids' attention, they also build social-emotional skills. In one study, children who participated in social skills games showed a 25% improvement in team collaboration over their peers. The Pete The Cat Groovy Friendship Game is a perfect option due to its versatility. It's also easy to play so you can start working on these skills at an early age.




Developed by renowned clinical psychologist, Thomas Phelan, PhD, 1-2-3 Magic is a straightforward parenting technique that helps parents manage behavior simply and effectively. By using a simple counting method, parents can clearly communicate limits. It's proven to be highly effective with reducing tantrums, whining, talking back, and other troublesome behaviors. Parents report that they've seen a reduction in misbehavior up to 40% when implementing this technique consistently. The 1-2-3 Magic Parenting Book is an easy read and a must have.





The Good Behavior Bucket is a fun way to incorporate reward systems. Children earn special tokens for good behavior, which they can exchange for prizes. This creativity transforms behavior reinforcement into an engaging experience. An initiative in a preschool setting using token systems reported a 30% drop in negative behaviors within one month. The shapes make it easy for students to visualize good and bad behaviors. It's also customizable with pre-made stickers or you can create your own.





With Punch Cards, kids get a punch for every milestone achieved—like completing chores or demonstrating good manners. Once filled, they earn a larger reward. This visual method keeps children motivated and accountable without overwhelming them. In fact, a study showed that children who use visual rewards are 50% more likely to stay engaged in their tasks.


This pack of 200 Behavior Punch Cards comes with multiple styles for different kids, and can be used in the classroom or at home. The material is also sturdy, so they won't get damaged easily. Punch cards are conveinent for kids who need instant gratification, because they're portable. They allow you to visually reward the positive behavior on the go.





A Thought Spot provides children with a place to articulate their emotions. By expressing their feelings verbally, kids can more effectively manage their emotions and lessen occurrences of frustration. Emotional intelligence is a crucial skill, and resources like this aid in nurturing that growth, ultimately reducing overall behavioral problems. Thought Spots prompt children to relax and contemplate their actions, unlike a Time Out Chair, which may exacerbate a meltdown. This bestselling Thought Spot Mat is portable, and can be used indoors or outdoors.





Visual Schedules are a helpful tool for children to manage their daily routines. They offer a clear way for young learners to visualize activities, which is essential for reducing anxiety, especially during transitions. A planner helps parents create a structured environment that provides security and predictability for kids who thrive on routine. Visual schedules allow children to see what comes next, easing uncertainty. Structured routines can lead to a reported 45% increase in positive behavior at home, enhancing cooperation, focus, and social interactions.


The Slumberkins Sloth Visual Schedule fosters independence as children learn to anticipate their next steps, boosting self-confidence and accomplishment. It can be customized to meet each child's needs, making the planning process engaging. Fun visuals and relatable characters, like the Sloth, help children connect with the schedule, making it an enjoyable part of their day. Overall, the Slumberkins Sloth 18 Piece Visual Schedule not only organizes routines but also supports emotional stability and independence, transforming how children experience their daily lives.





The Hand2mind Express Your Feelings Sensory Bottles are designed to help children express and understand their emotions. Filled with vibrant colors and materials, these sensory bottles encourage playful exploration of feelings through elements like glitter and beads. A key benefit is their ability to facilitate discussions about emotions. Children often find it hard to articulate their feelings, especially when overwhelmed. These bottles prompt conversations about emotions like happiness and anxiety, helping children identify and label their feelings through the movement of the contents.


Additionally, sensory bottles improve emotional regulation. Engaging with them allows children to recognize their feelings and develop coping strategies, such as using the calming effect of swirling glitter to promote mindfulness. These bottles are also effective in group settings, providing a non-threatening way for children to share feelings with peers and educators, fostering empathy and understanding. Overall, the Hand2mind Express Your Feelings Sensory Bottles are powerful tools for emotional development, encouraging dialogue and promoting healthier relationships.




The Mindful Maze for Kids is an innovative program designed to teach children the essential skills of mindfulness and patience. This engaging activity encourages children to focus on the present moment, helping them to develop a greater awareness of their thoughts and feelings. Engaging in calming activities, such as navigating through a mindful maze, can be particularly beneficial during stressful moments, allowing kids to find a sense of peace and tranquility amidst the chaos of daily life.


Research has shown that incorporating mindfulness practices into children's routines can lead to significant improvements in their emotional regulation and behavior. In fact, various child psychology studies have reported a remarkable reduction of nearly 60% in negative behaviors among children who regularly practice mindfulness techniques. This reduction not only helps children manage their emotions better but also fosters a more positive and supportive environment for their growth and development.





The Slumberkins Mindfulness Yeti is designed to guide kids through engaging mindfulness exercises. This adorable plush toy not only serves as a comforting companion but also plays a crucial role in fostering coping mechanisms that are essential for effectively managing emotions. By incorporating mindfulness techniques into their daily routines, children can experience significant improvements in their emotional regulation. Studies have shown that those who practice these techniques see a remarkable 30% improvement in their ability to manage their emotions, which can lead to fewer behavioral challenges in various settings.


Benefits of mindfulness for children include:

  • Emotional Regulation: Mindfulness practices help children understand and control their emotions better.

  • Reduced Behavioral Challenges: Improved emotional regulation often results in fewer behavioral issues.

  • Enhanced Coping Mechanisms: Children learn valuable skills to cope with stress and anxiety.

  • Increased Focus: Mindfulness can improve concentration and attention in children.


With the Slumberkins Mindfulness Yeti, children can embark on a journey of self-discovery and emotional growth, making it a wonderful addition to their playtime and daily routines.






The Funny Face Game injects laughter into learning about emotions, making it an engaging activity that encourages children to act out different feelings. This approach helps them understand emotional diversity, as embodying various emotions allows kids to better recognize and articulate their own feelings, ultimately fostering emotional intelligence. This lighthearted approach can significantly reduce tension, making it easier to discuss feelings in a natural setting. Children often feel more comfortable expressing themselves when humor is involved, which facilitates open conversations about emotions. Additionally, the game promotes social interaction and empathy, as kids learn to recognize and respect the emotions of their peers. To play the Funny Face Game, gather a group of children and provide them with a list of emotions. Each child takes turns acting out an emotion while the others guess what it is. This activity not only enhances their understanding of different feelings but also encourages creativity and spontaneity. Variations can be added, such as using props or integrating storytelling, to make the game even more engaging. Incorporating the Funny Face Game into educational settings or home activities can be a fun and effective way to teach children about emotions. By blending play with learning, it helps kids navigate their emotional landscape while fostering a supportive environment for discussion.





The Calming Corner Tool Kit includes a variety of handy items specifically designed for self-soothing and emotional regulation. This kit encourages kids to select calming strategies during moments of distress, helping them to manage their emotions more effectively. By providing these tools, children can learn to identify and implement techniques that promote calmness, which is essential for their emotional development. Teaching self-regulation through such tools can lead to a significant 35% decrease in aggressive outbursts, allowing for a more peaceful and conducive environment for learning and interaction. The toolkit serves not only as a resource for immediate relief but also as a foundation for developing lifelong skills in emotional management and resilience.

5% decrease in aggressive outbursts.




A Kids Timer visually counts down the time for various tasks such as homework assignments or household chores. This structured approach can significantly assist children in grasping the concept of time management and the responsibilities that come with it. By providing a visual representation of time passing, kids can develop a clearer understanding of how long they have to complete their tasks. As a result, they are likely to reduce the frequency of procrastination, which can lead to a more harmonious and organized home life. This not only fosters a sense of accountability in children but also encourages them to prioritize their responsibilities effectively, ultimately contributing to their personal growth and development.





A Responsibility Chart serves as a valuable tool for children to effectively track their various duties at home. By providing visual reminders, this chart teaches accountability and encourages the development of positive habits over time. As children actively engage with their responsibilities and see their progress, families often notice a smoother and more harmonious home environment. This system not only fosters a sense of responsibility in children but also enhances family dynamics by promoting teamwork and shared goals. As children learn to manage their tasks, they gain confidence and independence, which can lead to a more organized and peaceful household.





A Gratitude Journal encourages kids to creatively explore their thoughts and feelings in a meaningful way. Through the act of writing, children have the opportunity to process their emotions more effectively, which can lead to a significant reduction in negative behaviors that are often linked to feelings of frustration and confusion. When children take the time to reflect on what they are thankful for, they cultivate a positive mindset that can help them navigate their daily challenges. Additionally, children who regularly engage in journaling report experiencing greater emotional clarity, allowing them to understand and articulate their feelings better. This practice not only fosters a sense of gratitude but also contributes to less behavioral angst, as children learn to express themselves in healthier ways. Overall, the benefits of maintaining a gratitude journal extend beyond mere reflection; they empower children to develop resilience and emotional intelligence, which are essential skills for their overall well-being and personal growth.




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