Ways to help kids identify their coping strategies

Big emotions have come and they will always be there. As parents and teachers, it’s instinctual to want to jump in and relieve kids of difficult emotions. However it’s important to let them experience the full tide of emotions so they understand the temporary nature of emotions, learn ways to respond, and develop a sense of responsibility for their feelings.

Here are a few coping strategies that kids find helpful. Effective coping strategies stimulate the 5 senses to help kids ground in their surroundings and take their mind off the upsetting moment.

• Draw or paint 🎨

• Listen to music 🎵

• Do yoga or exercise. Younger kids love to jump on the trampoline or dance! 🩰

• Hug a favourite stuffed animal 🧸

• Play with pets 🐕

• Go for a walk 🚶

• Talk to a friend 📞

Many parents find having a calm down corner at home helpful, and guide their kids to the calm down corner each time they feel upset, instead of punishing. In this calm down corner, you can place an emotions chart, colouring books, books about emotions, stuffed animals, a yoga mat or trampoline, beanbags and other sensory items they find soothing. With time and consistency, your child will begin to associate these new coping strategies as more beneficial than the old tantrums. Kids may even take initiative to go there and calm down. Happy transforming!