It’s OK to Ask for Help
Here's What To Do
1
Throughout the day, remind your child that it’s OK to ask for help.
2
Talk together about the different things they might need help with, like reaching for something, getting dressed, or feeling calm when they are feeling an emotion like anger.
3
Ask your child for help too, and acknowledge when you notice others asking for, or providing help.
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Take a few deep breaths together or use your child’s favorite calming strategy if they need help regulating their feelings first.
E
Engage:
- “I am always here to help you if you need help.”
- “You can say “help me please” or show me.”
E
Encourage:
- Teach your child American Sign Language for “help” so they can communicate when they can’t speak or don’t want to.
- Make a “thumbs-up” sign with your dominant hand. Place it on the open palm of your non-dominant hand. Then move both hands upwards.
R
Reflect:
- “What can you say or do if you need help?”
Not quite ready?
If your child isn’t ready to ask for help, use the sign and simple words to ask for help. They do not have to repeat your words. “You can say, “Help me with my socks please.""
Ready for more?
Talk with your child about why asking for help is important.
As your child masters this skill...
They will seek adult support to help them manage their behavior.