As parents, we often try to tell our children that they shouldn't be upset. With good intention, we say things like "You're fine!" or "Don't cry!". Feelings can come and go, like the weather, but we cannot (and should not) prevent them. And we should not send a message to our children that they should not feel them. Instead, we should send a message that it is okay to feel that way, that they can handle their feelings, and that we will be there for them when things are difficult. Check out this article, posted on the Conscious Discipline website, that explains how to coach children through upset feelings, without denying the way they feel. It quotes a favorite song of mine, Let It Be, and also suggests that silence (with presence) is one of the best gifts we can give our kids when they feel upset. And by the way - the Conscious Discipline website has tons of other great, free resources for parents and teachers!
https://consciousdiscipline.com/coaching-children-through-upset/?utm_source=Conscious+Discipline+News+%2B+Offers&utm_campaign=5a1231a110-EMAIL_E-NEWS-CAMPAIGN_2019_11_21_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_fb76618fa7-5a1231a110-107093770&mc_cid=5a1231a110&mc_eid=b7c7a2b49a
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Sensory play experiences are very important for young children. We should let them experience their world using all their senses! This can include messy play and touching and experimenting with all kinds of different materials. It can be fun for kids to play with yogurt while seated at their high chair, or to play with whipped cream in a tray (sugar free won't be too sticky), or to play in a big bin of sand, dry rice, or dry beans. But it's not just fun - it promotes development, memory, attention, early mathematics concepts such as measurement, and sensory integration. So when a snow day comes around, I see it as a big opportunity for sensory play! If you are not able to take your kids outdoors during the snow (because of cold temperatures or not having enough space) you can always bring the snow IN! Consider filling up a large bowl or storage tub, or even a sink or bathtub, with snow! Let them play without bundling them up for the cold - join in, and have fun! Maybe we will get an opportunity - very soon ;)
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AuthorHi, I'm Brie Krentz, and I'm the School Psychologist at HGECC. I care about the social, emotional, behavioral, and mental health of all of our children, and I believe in Conscious Discipline as a way to minimize behavior problems and to help children connect meaningfully with others. Archives
October 2021
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