Coping skills are things that we can do in-the-moment, when we are feeling lousy, to help us turn down the volume of our emotions and avoid getting overwhelmed.
– adapted from www.katielear.com
1. Problem-Based Focus Coping Strategy: Create A Task List
When a child is overwhelmed with the tasks / school work they have, sit down with them to list out the tasks and submission dates. By doing so, child will be able to visualize their tasks better.
Next, guide your child in organizing the tasks on the list by priority, establishing realistic and healthy expectations for completing each task individually. This approach enables your child to envision the successful completion of tasks and makes them more attainable.
It is important to work on the task list with your child and not for your child. You may read more on setting healthy expectations.
2. Emotion-Based Focus Coping Strategy: Mindfulness Activities
Introduce your child to mindfulness activities as tools they can rely on during moments of overwhelm.
Some mindfulness activities includes reading, journaling, colouring, breathing, walk in the nature, meditation and sensory play for younger children.
3. Emotion-Based Focus Coping Strategy: Relaxation
Assist your child in developing the skill of relaxation and encourage them to take breaks when needed.
Some soothing activities includes taking a warm bath, deep breathing exercise, guided visualization, creating a calm-down kit.
Above all, simply be present. The most valuable support you can offer is being a attentive listener to your child, reassuring them that you’re always there for them. You are one of the dependable resources they can count on.
