NBFA's ERP Team Monthly Messenger
January, 2021
Shenquaya Clements, Social Worker sclements@nbfacademy.org
Gregory Marable, Restorative Coordinator gmarable@nbfacademy.org
Dealing with Anger
Anger is a healthy emotion to have. It's important to remember that it's okay for kids (and adults!) to get angry. It's what we DO with that anger that can be either healthy or unhealthy. One way to talk to your kids about anger is to teach them the “Stop light” Strategy. Have your child visualize a stoplight and follow the three steps that correspond with the colors of a traffic light: STOP = In that red zone we need to recognize when we are angry and stop to take some deep breaths. THINK = In this yellow zone, kids slow down and think about strategies to deal with the angry feelings. GO = Kids get a green light to implement the strategies they have come up with. Anger is a tough emotion to tame. The more kids can practice managing their emotions early on, the easier it will be manage the tough stuff later in life!
Stress
Stress can be difficult for kids and parents, and we all know how much stress can infiltrate our daily lives. Here are some tips for kids and parents to stay stress free:
Change is tough: Be aware that change (both positive and negative) can be stressful on kids. Try to keep a routine that is solid, and if things are going to change, make sure that you talk to your child about the changes.
Make time to relax: Overscheduling can be hard on kids and parents. Make sure that you kids have some downtime each day!
Be a role model: Teach your child some of the coping skills that you use, and model them when you’re feeling stressed! Deep breathing, self talk and going to a “happy place” are all things kids can do when they are under stress.
Coping statements are key: Just like when we deal with anger, it's important to create some self talk to help kids cope with stress. “Stay calm, just relax”, “I can get through this”, or “Slow down, take a few deep breaths” are all examples of self talk statements your child can use.
Be positive: Remind kids that most of the time, stress is temporary. Often it may seem like the stress will never go away when you or your child is in the middle of a stressful situation. Remind your child (and yourself) that stress is temporary and it usually begins to go away when you take steps to solve the problem.
ATTENDANCE SPIRIT WEEK! JANUARY 25TH - 30TH
Join NBFA in supporting positive school attendance by participating in our Attendance Spirit Week!