Be proactive in teaching kids what *to say and do* in tricky moments instead of reactively focusing on what not to do when things get rocky in the moment!!
🎁 handle feeling disappointed by a gift - practice saying thank you and remind them they can always privately tell you how they feel! This is great to role play and act out!!
✅ know what to expect!! Tell kids as many details as you can about what will happen - where you’re going, who will be there, food, any special events. Knowing what to expect helps many kids feel calmer and more regulated.
👨👩👧 take a break when needed!! Have kids pack a few favorite toys and bring a calming kit. It’s ok to need a break. 💙💙💙💙
Don’t wait for meltdown city at the event to think about handling big events or hard moments. Prep ahead of time and talk through what to expect instead!