Mr. Litchfield's
Social Skill Lesson: Week of May 25th-29th
Helping Children Deal with Change
Suggestions of ways to help children cope with the stress of change:
Listen:
When your child is ready to talk (this may take time for some children), be sure to give them your ear. Letting them know you are there for them can make them feel more secure in their feelings.
Offer choices:
Sometimes, children exhibit negative behavior during new changes because they feel out of control. They are used to one routine and now may not know what to expect from day to day. Offer them choices throughout the day and give them options.
Let Them Be Upset:
Crying and tantrums are ways that children can react while trying to navigate through new changes.
Keep a Routine:
Children thrive on routine. It makes their lives feel predicable and safe. Without structure, our children feel a sense of chaos which can lead to more stress.
Create New Rituals:
Everyone likes something to look forward to. It is fun to introduce new daily and weekly activities into your schedule. Movie night. Craft Sundays. Pizza Fridays (A popular one in my house!)
Give Warning:
Talk about any new changes ahead of time. This will help children process and ask questions.
Focus on the Positive:
It is easy for us to find the mistakes we all make everyday, but it is important to find things you can celebrate!
Accept that change takes time:
This is new, uncharted territory for everybody and everyone processes at different speeds. Be kind and patient.
Trust your instincts:
You know what is best for you and your family. Stay healthy and informed. If you see changes in behavior, remember that it is normal.