Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Calmness Crew?

The Calmness Crew are a collection of mental health plushie characters that are soft, weighted and designed to support children and young people who experience anxiety, stress, panic, or low mood. Each mental health plushie includes voice-guided mental health techniques used by professionals—such as box breathing, positive affirmations, and grounding exercises—helping kids to self-regulate and find calm wherever they are.

How do the plushies work?

Each mental health plushie contains a small, rechargeable device that plays soothing, voice-guided techniques. With the push of a button, children can follow along with calming exercises to help them relax, re-focus, or feel safe. It’s like having a portable wellbeing coach built into their favourite cuddle buddy.

What age are the Calmness Crew plushies suitable for?

They’re ideal for children aged 5 and up, and especially helpful for those struggling with emotional regulation, anxiety, or sensory needs. Teenagers and even adults have found comfort in them too!

When can the plushie be used?

The Calmness Crew is perfect for:

  • School (during breaks, transitions, or quiet time)

  • Home (bedtime routines, emotional regulation)

  • Travel (car rides, flying, trains, holidays, new environments)

  • Grief or emotional upheaval

  • Therapy or counselling sessions
    In short: anytime your child needs calm, comfort, or emotional support.

What mental health techniques are included?

Each mental health plushie includes voice-guided:

  • Box Breathing – to help regulate breathing and calm the nervous system

  • Grounding Techniques – to help bring attention back to the present moment

  • Positive Affirmations – to build confidence, self-love, and positive thinking
    All techniques are informed by mental health professionals and trauma-sensitive practices.

What makes this different from Jellycat or Squishmallow?

While Jellycat and Squishmallow are lovable soft toys, The Calmness Crew is more than just a plushie.
It’s a mental health tool—designed with intention to support emotional wellbeing through sensory input (weight), voice guidance, and interactive elements like customisable felt patches and emojis. It’s a cuddle with purpose.

Can my child personalise their plushie?

Yes! Children can add felt stickers to the mental health plushie’s heart area to make it their own. Each mental health plushie also comes with a tag where children can name their Calmness Crew member, write what makes them smile (for gratitude practice), and carry a positive affirmation with them.

Are the plushies safe for children?

Absolutely. The mental health plushies are designed with child safety in mind, using high-quality materials, secure internal components, and soft, durable fabric. The voice device is rechargeable and safely enclosed. All felt accessories are attached with Velcro and are tested for safety.

Are the voices calming and child-friendly?

Yes. The voice guidance has been carefully created to feel like a calm, supportive friend—gentle, reassuring, and easy to follow. We’ve worked with multiple people to ensure each character has a different voice, the tone, pace, and language is suitable for children and young people.

Are there any videos or resources to support the Calmness Crew?

Yes! You can explore our Calmness Crew animations on YouTube at www.youtube.com/thecalmnesscrew. These beautifully animated videos extend the Calmness Crew experience with calming visuals and relatable stories.

How do I charge the voice device?

Each Calmness Crew mental health plushie comes with a USB charging cable. The device is easy to recharge—just connect it like you would a phone. A full charge typically lasts several days depending on use.

Is it washable?

Yes, to a degree! The voice device is removable so you can wash the mental health plushie by hand.

What if my child is neurodivergent or has sensory needs?

Many neurodivergent children find the Calmness Crew mental health plushie comforting due to the weight, softness, and structured guidance. The techniques are sensory-friendly, and the plushie offers both tactile and auditory support. It's a helpful tool for emotional regulation, focus, and self-soothing.

Where can I buy a Calmness Crew plushie?

You can order now via our website. We’ll also be announcing availability in schools, therapy centres, and select retail partners soon!

How can I use the Calmness Crew in a classroom or therapy setting?

Educators and therapists have found the plushies incredibly useful as part of wellbeing corners or emotion regulation strategies. They’re a calm-down companion for 1:1 sessions, transitions, or group mindfulness moments.