Healthy Coping Strategies for Children

Why Focus on Healthy Coping?

An important goal for our students is to be able to use coping skills on their own so they can deal with their discomfort in a healthy way when we are not around to help them.

It is important to point out the strategies we are using so that the students can understand them and remember to use them on their own when needed.

The following are tips to keep in mind when helping your child with coping skills.

• Prompt your child. Say things like, "It looks like you're feeling frustrated. What would help you to calm yourself right now?"

• Praise your child. When you notice your child using coping skills, provide positive praises. Say, "I saw you taking some bubble breaths just now. Nice job calming yourself."

• Debrief after an event. Help your child learn to identify which strategies work best for him/her. Ask questions like, "Did coloring help you feel better?"

Disclaimer:  The following links are purely for educational purposes and are not intended as psychological interventions or as a substitute for psychological treatment. If you are in need of psychological help you should seek the consultation of a licensed mental health professional. 

Coping Skills for Elementary School Students