The Galaxy Guide to Running My Rocket – emotional regulation tool for big feelings

The Galaxy Guide to Running My Rocket: The Ultimate Tool for Big Emotions

The Galaxy Guide to Running My Rocket: The Ultimate Tool for Big Emotions

In this article, we will explore what sets The Galaxy Guide to Running My Rocket apart from other emotional regulation tools, and how its unique approach supports children's emotional regulation with increased independence.

The Rocket Journey and Emotional Navigation

A fundamental concept that distinguishes The Galaxy Guide is its recognition of the range of emotions children experience in a single day. Through the imagery of a rocket, children are encouraged to understand and navigate their changing emotions. Each emotion corresponds to a different planet, representing the arousal level associated with that specific emotion.

By learning to steer their rocket to different planets, children gain a sense of control over their emotions and develop skills to manage them effectively. The inclusion of the Star Controller visual concept further supports children in controlling their "emotional daily flight path," allowing for a gradual transition from co-regulation to self-regulation.

Addressing Internal Needs

The Galaxy Guide recognises that emotional regulation goes beyond just managing observable emotions. It emphasises the importance of meeting a child's internal needs, which can significantly influence their emotional well-being. Factors such as hunger, fatigue, illness, or the need for physical comfort often impact a child's emotional state.

Unlike many other resources, The Galaxy Guide takes a holistic approach by addressing these internal needs explicitly, prompting parents and caregivers to consider whether the child is hungry, tired, unwell, or in need of a bathroom break.

Promoting Independence and Self-Regulation

One of the primary goals of The Galaxy Guide is to empower children to progress from co-regulation, where they rely on full adult support, to greater independence in self-regulation. By providing scaffolded support through the rocket journey and an activity tracker, the resource equips children with the tools and skills necessary for managing their emotions autonomously.

This approach fosters self-awareness, resilience, and independence in emotional regulation, allowing children to develop lifelong skills for managing their emotions effectively.

Rather than telling children how to feel or behave, The Galaxy Guide empowers them to notice, name, and navigate their emotional experience, building the lifelong regulation skills they need.

The Galaxy Guide to Running My Rocket

The Galaxy Guide to Running My Rocket

A therapist-designed book pack for children ages 5–12. Practical strategies, neuroaffirming language, and over 100 regulation activities.

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Whether you are a therapist, working in a school, or supporting a child at home, there is something below for you.

Ready Rocket Therapy Program License
For Therapists

Ready Rocket Therapy Program License

A complete, session-ready emotional regulation program for 1:1 and group work. Neurodivergent-affirming, shame-free, and built for the therapy room.

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Ready Rocket School Learning Program
For Schools

Ready Rocket School Learning Program

A structured emotional regulation program for the classroom. Available for children ages 3 to 7, designed for early childhood and primary settings.

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Galaxy Guide Essential Family Pack Parents Workshop
For Families

Support Your Child at Home

Books, activity packs, and workshops to support your child's emotional regulation at home. For parents and caregivers of children aged 3 to 12.

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About the authors
Bella Martini and Tash O'Connor
Bella Martini & Tash O'Connor
Senior Paediatric Occupational Therapists · Ready Rocket Resources
Creators of neuroscience-informed, neuroaffirming emotional regulation programs and resources for children.
Ready Rocket Resources community

Meet the Authors

Bella Martini

Bella Martini

Senior Paediatric Occupational Therapist

Co-creator of Ready Rocket Resources with a passion for helping children develop essential skills through engaging, evidence-based resources.

Tash O'Connor

Tash O'Connor

Senior Paediatric Occupational Therapist

Co-creator of Ready Rocket Resources dedicated to creating practical tools that support children's emotional regulation and development.