What are some calming activities for after school? 

Parenting Perspective 

Building a Calm After-School Routine 

The time after school can feel overwhelming for many children with additional needs. They often hold in their emotions all day at school and then release them the moment they feel safe at home. Building a calm after-school routine can help your child decompress and reduce the chance of meltdowns. 

Gentle Sensory and Movement Activities 

Start by offering a quiet, familiar space where they can unwind. This might be a cosy corner with cushions, soft lighting or their favourite blanket. Some children enjoy gentle sensory activities like playdough, kinetic sand or relaxing under a weighted blanket. Others find calm movement helpful, such as a slow walk outside, bouncing on a small trampoline or doing some gentle stretches. Listening to soft nasheeds or peaceful sounds can also soothe a busy mind. 

Giving Your Child Time to Settle 

Try not to ask too many questions straight away. Give your child time to settle and ‘land’ after the school day. Having a simple snack ready can help refuel them. If they enjoy drawing or colouring, keep those supplies nearby for quiet, creative time. If possible, keep the first part of this time screen-free, as it can help them reconnect with their body and emotions. 

Remember, not every day will look the same. Watch what helps your child feel safe and adjust your routine gently as you learn what works best. These small moments of calm after school can turn your home into a place of peace and belonging where your child feels truly understood and supported. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam reminds us that the home should be a place of warmth and gentle refuge, especially after a tiring day in the world outside. Creating calm moments for your child is an act of mercy and a reflection of our faith. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah An-Nahl (16), Verse 80: 

‘And Allah has made for you from your homes a place of rest… ‘

This Ayah reminds us that our homes are meant to be havens of ease. 

It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3671, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘Be kind to children and perfect in your upbringing of them. ‘

This Hadith Shareef shows that offering gentle, thoughtful care, like a calming activity or a patient hug, is part of perfecting your duty as a parent. Make sincere Dua that your home remains a safe, peaceful place where your child feels secure and loved, no matter what challenges they face outside. Trust that your effort to create calm, the soft voice, the quiet corners, the gentle reminders, is never wasted. With Sabr and Tawakkul, these small acts can bring Barakah to your family’s evenings and strengthen your bond with your child in ways that echo far beyond childhood.