Transitions can be tough for little hearts. Whether it’s going back to school, living between two homes, or saying goodbye to a parent who serves in the military, many children experience anxiety when they're separated from the people who make them feel safest.

At Today Tomorrow & Always (TTA), we create handcrafted anxiety beads designed to offer a sense of calm and connection to children who need a little extra courage. These beads aren't just beautiful keepsakes—they're filled with the love, presence, and 'magic' of someone special.

A Mother’s Love at the Heart of the Idea

As a mum of four—three with autism, two also with ADHD, and one super special kid with an intellectual disability on top of autism and ADHD (or AuDHD as we call it), I created these anxiety beads out of pure necessity. Though undiagnosed at the time (wow, when i look back I started dealing with this from about 2007), my children were struggling immensely with separation. School drop-offs were heartbreaking: They was often pried from my arms or legs, I was chased as I left the school gates, and walking away in tears was my daily routine, knowing that although school was necessary, it was hurting more than helping.

I desperately needed something to help them feel safer. Something they could hold onto when I wasn't there. Fast forward to the birth of Today Tomorrow & Always and the idea for these beads was born. A tiny piece of me they could carry, a tangible reminder that they were loved, safe, and never truly alone.

What Are Anxiety Beads?

Our anxiety beads are small, wearable memory beads infused with the hair of a loved on, a parent, grandparent, sibling, or any "safe person" in a child's life. They are designed to be worn close to the skin, so children can touch and hold onto them whenever they need comfort.

Each bead comes with a special story, lovingly written for the child: that their bead holds the magic and love of their person, and that whenever they need a boost of brave, all they have to do is gently rub their bead.

Helping Children with Separation Anxiety

These beads have been a source of great comfort to children facing all kinds of transitions:

• Back-to-school nerves

• Children with separated parents living in two homes

• Military families where a parent is away for weeks or months

• Kids who have experienced trauma or loss

• Children in hospital or starting daycare for the first time

The physical presence of the bead, made from a tangible part of their loved one, offers a deep sense of connection and reassurance.

And they’re not just used by my family anymore. These beads have now been tried and loved by over a dozen families, each one finding their own version of comfort and calm. From reduced morning tears to smoother transitions and empowered little ones, the feedback has been overwhelmingly beautiful.

Features of Our Anxiety Beads

• Infused with hair from one or more loved ones (yes, you can include multiple people)

• Wide range of colours to suit your child’s personality and preferences

• Handmade with love and intention, using high-quality, safe materials

• Custom story card included to help children understand the bead’s purpose and magic

Why It Works

For many children, having something small and meaningful they can physically touch helps them self-soothe in moments of stress or worry. These beads are discreet, beautiful, and easy to wear on a chain, keyring, or placed inside a school bag.

Parents have shared that the bead helped reduce morning tears, supported smoother transitions between homes, and gave their child something to hold onto when words weren't enough.

A Keepsake Full of Love

At TTA, we know how deeply you care for your children. These beads are more than jewellery—they're a pocket-sized hug, a whisper of love, and a powerful reminder that no matter where you are, your child is never truly without you.

Turnaround time is typically 4–6 weeks from the time we receive your inclusions, and each order is sent express with signature to ensure safety and care.