The Emergency Activity Cheat Sheet

A cheat sheet designed to be printed and pinned to the fridge for
those moments when you need a quick reset.

10-Minute Distractions

• The “I Need a Favor” Trick: Hand them a basket of washcloths or hand towels. Say, “I am so behind today. Could you do me a huge favor and fold these for me?”
• The Junk Drawer Sort: Put a handful of safe items (cooking utensils, playing cards, spools of thread) on a tray. Ask them to sort them by color, size, or type.
• Magazine Scavenger Hunt: Hand them a catalog or magazine. Ask them to dog-ear every page that has a dog, a car, or the color blue. You choose!
• “Name Three” Trivia: Ask rapid-fire, low-stress questions. “Can you name three types of flowers?” or “What are three things you’d put in a cherry pie?”

Calming & Bedside Resets

• Sensory Sorting: Place a lightweight lap tray over their legs with a bowl of smooth river stones or differently textured fabrics to handle.
• Scent & Memory Massage: Use a lightly scented lotion (like lavender or vanilla) to gently massage their hands. Physical touch is instantly soothing.
• Audio Escapes: Play familiar music they like, hymns, or even Lawrence Welk or a musical movie, to provide engagement without demanding eye contact or speech.
• Life Story Photos: Point to an old photo and say, “That looks like a beautiful day,” rather than asking, “Do you remember this?”

When They Say “No”

• Do Not Force It: Pushing will only increase agitation. Back off and try again later.
• Change the Pitch: Don’t present it as a game or activity. Ask, “You don’t have to play, but would you keep me company while I do it?”
• Give Them a Job: If they won’t participate, make them the “official page turner” or the person in charge of holding the supplies.