What Do I Do?
Here's What To Do
1
Throughout the day, help your child to include strategies to constructively manage big feelings, and control their actions.
2
For example:
- If you notice your child becoming frustrated while doing a puzzle, help them to take deep breaths, or shake and dance for a little. Then, when they feel calm, you can both brainstorm ways to complete the puzzle.
- If your child has a conflict with a sibling, after using calming strategies as needed, help them to identify the issue. Together, brainstorm ways to safely resolve the conflict.
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Throughout the day, incorporate self-regulation strategies like deep breathing, dancing and drawing. The more your child practices these when they’re calm, the more likely they’ll be able to use them when they require support.
E
Engage:
- “I notice that your face looks like it’s frustrated (describe what you see). How does your body feel?”
- “What would you like to do to help you feel calm?”
E
Encourage:
- Describe the calming strategy while you do it with your child.
- “First, let’s take some deep breaths together. Make your belly go out like a balloon as you breathe in. Now, let’s blow out all the air and make our bellies go in.”
R
Reflect:
- “How does your body feel when you are calm?”
Not quite ready?
Practice incorporating one, simple and familiar calming strategy before introducing others.
Ready for more?
Encourage your child to also share how their words and actions might affect them self and others.
As your child masters this skill...
They will confidently apply self-regulatory behavior strategies