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Routine
Kids count on structure and predictability. They feel safe when they know what to expect. When there is no routine, kids (and adults!) start to feel insecure and anxious. In order to bring a sense of normalcy to their day, a predictable routine will do wonders for calming big emotions and decreasing unexpected behaviors. Decide what needs to happen during the day (What needs to happen before school? After school? Before bed?) and work with your child to put together a daily schedule. Post the schedule so your child can see what is coming up.
Articles:
Family routines: how and why they work
5 Reasons Why It's Important for Kids to Have A Routine
Why Kids Need Routines
Kids count on structure and predictability. They feel safe when they know what to expect. When there is no routine, kids (and adults!) start to feel insecure and anxious. In order to bring a sense of normalcy to their day, a predictable routine will do wonders for calming big emotions and decreasing unexpected behaviors. Decide what needs to happen during the day (What needs to happen before school? After school? Before bed?) and work with your child to put together a daily schedule. Post the schedule so your child can see what is coming up.
Articles:
Family routines: how and why they work
5 Reasons Why It's Important for Kids to Have A Routine
Why Kids Need Routines
Give Kids Choices
A lot of our kids' days are planned out for them. They are frequently told where to go, what to do, and when to do it. This is bound to leave kids feeling like they have no control over what is happening. While we can't change what is happening, we can find ways to help them assert some control over their day. Where possible, letting kids choose activities, when to do things, or how to accomplish something will give them a little sense of empowerment. By giving them appropriate ways to assert control, you might just avoid some unexpected behaviors as they strive to be seen and heard.
Articles:
Giving children choices
Guidelines for Giving Kids Choices
A lot of our kids' days are planned out for them. They are frequently told where to go, what to do, and when to do it. This is bound to leave kids feeling like they have no control over what is happening. While we can't change what is happening, we can find ways to help them assert some control over their day. Where possible, letting kids choose activities, when to do things, or how to accomplish something will give them a little sense of empowerment. By giving them appropriate ways to assert control, you might just avoid some unexpected behaviors as they strive to be seen and heard.
Articles:
Giving children choices
Guidelines for Giving Kids Choices
Movement
Kids need to move! They are wired to be in motion. Not only does movement help our bodies to be strong and healthy, it keeps our brains clear and improves our ability to learn and helps us to process and deal with our emotions. Be sure to include fresh air and sunshine in your child's daily routine. It will really make a difference in their ability to handle stressors. Additionally, as kids are getting into the swing of school, homework, and other home responsibilities be sure they are taking breaks. Letting them choose activities for those breaks is a great way to help them feel some control of their school day.
Articles:
3 Ways Movement and Mindfulness Can Reduce Stress In Kids
Physical Activity: Benefits of exercise for health and well being
Physical Exercise for Brain Health
Kids need to move! They are wired to be in motion. Not only does movement help our bodies to be strong and healthy, it keeps our brains clear and improves our ability to learn and helps us to process and deal with our emotions. Be sure to include fresh air and sunshine in your child's daily routine. It will really make a difference in their ability to handle stressors. Additionally, as kids are getting into the swing of school, homework, and other home responsibilities be sure they are taking breaks. Letting them choose activities for those breaks is a great way to help them feel some control of their school day.
Articles:
3 Ways Movement and Mindfulness Can Reduce Stress In Kids
Physical Activity: Benefits of exercise for health and well being
Physical Exercise for Brain Health
Dealing with Challenging Behavior
Resources:
An After School Meltdown Strategy that Actually Works
How to Handle Big Temper Tantrums Over Little Things
Resources:
An After School Meltdown Strategy that Actually Works
How to Handle Big Temper Tantrums Over Little Things