What Parents Can Do To Help Children Cope With Feelings
Ø Talk with your child, providing simple, accurate information to questions.
Ø Talk with your child about his/her feelings.
Ø Listen to what your child says and how your child says it. Is there fear, anxiety,
insecurity? Your repeating the child’s words may be very helpful, such as,
“you are afraid that”. . . or, “you wonder if someone else will die.” This helps
both you and the child clarify feelings.
Ø Reassure your child, “We are together. We care about you. We will take care of you.”
Ø You may need to repeat information and reassurances many times. Do not stop
responding just because you told the child once.
Ø Hold the child. Provide comfort. Touching is important for children during this period.
Ø Spend extra time putting your child to bed. Talk and offer assurance. Leave a night light
on if necessary.
Ø Observe your child at play. Listen to what is said and how the child plays. Frequently
children express feelings of fear or anger while playing with dolls, trucks, or friends.
Ø Provide play experiences to relieve tension. Work with playdough, paint, play in water,
etc. If children show the need to hit or kick, give them something safe such as a pillow,
ball, or balloon.
Ø If you need help for your child, contact your school counselor.
Ø Talk with your child about his/her feelings.
Ø Listen to what your child says and how your child says it. Is there fear, anxiety,
insecurity? Your repeating the child’s words may be very helpful, such as,
“you are afraid that”. . . or, “you wonder if someone else will die.” This helps
both you and the child clarify feelings.
Ø Reassure your child, “We are together. We care about you. We will take care of you.”
Ø You may need to repeat information and reassurances many times. Do not stop
responding just because you told the child once.
Ø Hold the child. Provide comfort. Touching is important for children during this period.
Ø Spend extra time putting your child to bed. Talk and offer assurance. Leave a night light
on if necessary.
Ø Observe your child at play. Listen to what is said and how the child plays. Frequently
children express feelings of fear or anger while playing with dolls, trucks, or friends.
Ø Provide play experiences to relieve tension. Work with playdough, paint, play in water,
etc. If children show the need to hit or kick, give them something safe such as a pillow,
ball, or balloon.
Ø If you need help for your child, contact your school counselor.
