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Beyond 'Calm down': Teaching kids to calm themselves June 28, 2017, 8:33 pmWe as adults understand the concept of "calm down," but the kiddos in our life do not. I know for me, and I would bet for a lot of you, when your child starts to scream or react physically, an immediate response of ours is to say, "Calm down." It should be no big surprise it doesn't work. Here are some helpful tips for you to help them achieve calm, rather than asking them to do so on their own. First, start by saying, "I see you are having a difficult time, let me help you." This is validating their emotions and creating a safe place. Don't be afraid to label the emotion, such as, "I see you are mad." Second, have the child breathe with you. Breathe in for five and out five. Do this at least five times. If they need more, keep going. This creates a tool for the child to use when you are not around and they are starting to feel out of control. Here are some other alternatives to the phrase "calm down":
Most importantly, plan for next time. Use phrases like, "How can we make it better next time?" or, "If that happens again, what can you do instead of throwing something?" Parenting is hard and at times you will want to yell, "Calm down." Remember, not only will these skills be useful for your kid, you can also practice them for yourself. The community news source for Eagle Mountain Utah, Saratoga Springs Utah, Lehi Utah, American Fork Utah, Highland Utah, Alpine Utah, and The Cedar Valley, including Cedar Fort Utah and Fairfield Utah. Copyright 2024 The Crossroads Journal LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
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