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HEALTH & WELLNESS
3. Discuss these strategies with your child ahead of time. Kids are creative.
Ask them what will help them when they are upset. Ask them to“ test” out the strategies you both decide on and ask for their feedback. But stick with what you have decided to see how the strategies work. A good trial may be 4- 8 times before you try other strategies. This process helps the child to be engaged in the process. It works best when they feel they have some choice and control in what happens.
4. During the emotional meltdown or acting out.
Check with your child what strategies they think will be helpful. Here are some suggestions:
• Maybe it’ s XXX number of push-ups or throwing a ball outside. Younger children may want a cloth doll or use a heavy fabric tied in a knot, called their angry doll. They can throw it and say I’ m angry because …( outside or in the garage or porch that doesn’ t destroy property or hurt themselves or someone else).
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