We are all in the thick of it. The most common challenge that I am seeing for families is that children are having a hard time managing emotions also known as self-regulation. Children are under more stress than ever trying to navigate this new way of life, school and friendship with parents and teachers that are more stressed out than ever as well. This leads to a lot of lids flipping and meltdowns. It's important to make "calm" part of every child's day. There are many ways to do this.
Set aside at least 10 minutes a day for your child to do a preferred calming activity
reading, listening to a meditation, playing outside
Create a space in your home as a "calm corner" Your child can help you decorate it with fuzzy blankets, books, art supplies, feelings chart etc. In the picture above are some of my favorite items including a Hobermann sphere (breathing ball), lavendar oil, Aaron's Puddy and books about feelings and breathing.
Practice positive self-talk
"I can do hard things." "Mistakes help me learn and grow"
Practice calming strategies regularly
Counting, Belly Breaths
Make sure your child is getting enough physical activity with something they enjoy
Dancing, playing, jumping on the trampoline, stretching
Explain how the brain works so your child can identify when they are flipping their lid and know what they need to do to calm down