Preparing Your Child for Changes

During times of change, a little extra attention will go a long way in helping children deal with stress. Plan an hour or a half hour each week where your child has your undivided attention. It is important to use play time to help a child’s development. Let your child pick the activity or follow you child’s lead.

Prepare your child well in advance for any change in your child’s life.

For example:

1. New School

2. New sibling

3. Different routine

4. Mom going to work

5. New Family situations e.g. divorce

Explain the changes that will happen and how it will happen

1. With young children, role play is a good way of making it a fun activity with your child.

2. Your child needs to be given plenty of time to adjust to any changes.

3. The more time you prepare your child in advance, the better.

4. Answer questions honestly and simply. Listen attentively.

5. Acknowledge your child’s feelings.

6. Have a positive attitude.

Give your child assurance, love and nurturing

1. Tell your child how much you love him/her.

2. Provide loads of affection and nurturing.

Seek help if you need it

Children can often communicate their difficulties more effectively through play than they can through language. Research a suitable psychologist or play therapist to help your child through the period of change.

Make changes in your child’s life a positive one!

You are amazing

You are important

You are precious

You are special

You are loved