Children need to be prepared with changes ahead to make them feel secure. Children thrive on routine and on knowing what is happening next.
During times of change, a little extra attention will go a long way in helping children deal with stress. Plan an hour or a half hour each week where your child has your undivided attention. It is important to use play time to help a child’s development. Let your child pick the activity or follow you child’s lead.
Prepare your child well in advance for any change in your child’s life.
For example:
- New School
- New sibling
- Different routine
- Mom going to work
- New Family situations e.g. divorce
Explain the changes that will happen and how it will happen
- With young children, role play is a good way of making it a fun activity with your child.
- Your child needs to be given plenty of time to adjust to any changes.
- The more time you prepare your child in advance, the better.
- Answer questions honestly and simply. Listen attentively.
- Acknowledge your child’s feelings.
- Have a positive attitude.
Give your child assurance, love and nurturing
- Tell your child how much you love him/her.
- Provide loads of affection and nurturing.
Seek help if you need it
Children can often communicate their difficulties more effectively through play than they can through language. Research a suitable psychologist or play therapist to help your child through the period of change.
Make changes in your child’s life a positive one!
You are amazing
You are important
You are precious
You are special
You are loved
