Y’all already know how much I love EFT tapping. You may have attended my EFT foundations workshop already and felt the benefits for yourself. For those of you who are learning about EFT tapping for the first time, Emotional Freedom Technique is a gentle and empowering tool that helps to calm and regulate the nervous system in the presence of big feelings.

I love using it with kids because it not only helps them to feel caler, it also teaches them that all emotions are okay, and that they are still loved and safe even when they’re feeling overwhelmed and their nervous system perceives a threat. It helps children to process these big feelings in a safe and accessible way.

Just as importantly, tapping offers parents a practical way to regulate their own nervous systems in the moment, so they can remain calm and not get triggered in the face of big emotions. When adults model calm presence and acceptance, children learn to do the same. This supports co-regulation, where the child’s emotional state is naturally soothed by the grounded energy of a caring adult. EFT helps create moments of connection and understanding — showing kids that big feelings aren’t something to fear or suppress, but something we can hold together with compassion.

Different ways to apply EFT tapping

1. Reduce feelings of anxiety and stress

Children, just like adults, experience anxiety and stress, whether it’s related to school, friendships, or changes in their environment. EFT tapping helps to calm their nervous system by stimulating emotional acupressure points. This can quickly reduce feelings of anxiety and stress, helping children feel more relaxed and secure. One of my favourite things about EFT is how receptive children are to the benefits.

2. Enhance focus and concentration

Many children - and adults - struggle with focus and concentration, whether due to nervous system dysregulation, sensory distractions or ADHD. EFT can help to ease overwhelm, clear mental blocks and reduce hyperactivity, allowing children to concentrate better on the task at hand, such as schoolwork and hobbies. This can lead to more fulfilment, improved self-esteem and a greater sense of achievement.

3. Calm big feelings and improve emotional regulation

Learning to manage emotions is a critical part of a child’s development. EFT provides children with a practical and convenient tool to understand and regulate their emotions. By tapping through their feelings, children can process emotions more effectively, leading to improved emotional resilience and stability. EFT empowers children to feel confident around big feelings and feel in control of their circumstances. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by their feelings, children learn that they have a healthy coping tool they can use anytime and anywhere to help themselves feel better.

4. Boost self-esteem and confidence

Children often face challenges that can impact their self-esteem, such as peer pressure, academic expectations, or social difficulties. EFT helps children release negative beliefs about themselves and build a more positive self-image. This boost in self-esteem and confidence can empower children to face challenges with a stronger, more optimistic mindset.

5. Support physical health

The mind-body connection is strong, and emotional distress can manifest as physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomachaches, or sleep disturbances. EFT can help alleviate these symptoms by addressing the underlying emotional causes. By tapping, children can experience not only emotional relief but also improvements in their physical health. (This goes for adults too!!)

Try these tapping set-up affirmations with your little ones

For anxiety and stress

It’s okay to feel worried — I don’t have to fix everything.
I feel tight inside, but I’m safe and loved.
I’m not alone — someone is here for me.
Even if I feel nervous, I can still try.
These worrying thoughts are not the boss of me.
I feel worried, but I am safe right now.

For concentration and focus

It’s okay if I get distracted — I can try again.
There’s no need to rush, I can slow down and take my time.
I’m doing my best, and that’s enough.
I can take one step at a time, at the perfect pace for me.
Even if I get distracted, I’m still a wonderful person.

For big feelings

Even if I feel really mad, I can still be kind to myself.
This sadness feels big right now, and that’s okay.
I don’t have to hide my feelings — they can come and go.
It’s okay to feel scared — I’m not alone.
I know how to calm my body with deep breaths.
My feelings are just visitors. I can say hello and let them pass.
Even when I feel upset inside, I’m still loved.

For self-confidence and esteem

Even if I feel shy, I am brave inside.
I’m learning new things every day, and that’s amazing!
It’s okay to make mistakes — I’m still a good kid.
I like who I am, just as I am.
I’m perfectly lovable the way I am.
Even though this was hard, I’m proud of myself for trying.
My voice matters, and what I say is important.

Tapping helps children learn that their feelings are safe, their bodies are wise, and they are never alone in what they feel. When practiced in coregulation with a patient caregiver, it becomes a powerful tool for building emotional resilience, confidence, and inner calm. It can help families to resolve conflict and find their way back to connection and safety.

If you’d like more guidance on how to use EFT with kids, you can access the recording of my “Tapping with Kids” workshop, where you will learn how to practice EFT tapping, and I walk you through practical ways to introduce tapping, support co-regulation, and create emotional safety at home or at work. It’s perfect for parents, carers, and professionals alike.

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