Establish predictable routines
Routines help children feel safe and secure. Having predictable meal, nap, and playtimes reduces anxiety and creates a sense of stability, which is especially important for children who find it difficult to control their emotions.
Teach emotional labelling and expression
Help your child understand and name their feelings ("I see you're feeling sad"). Offer simple strategies for managing emotions, such as deep breathing or hugging a soft toy, to encourage the child to be able to calm themselves.
Model calm and patience
Children often mirror the emotions of adults around them. Modelling calm behaviour during stressful moments can teach children how to manage big feelings and react more positively to difficult situations.
Create a safe space for emotions
Set up a calming corner with comforting items like soft cushions, a blanket, or a favourite toy. This designated space can be a retreat when your child feels overwhelmed, offering a sense of security and calm.
Use visual aids for understanding emotions
Visual aids like emotion charts or pictures can help young children recognize different emotions. These tools give them a visual clue to understand and communicate what they're feeling.
Encourage simple social interaction
Gradually expose your child to social situations, starting with short playtimes with one other child. Gentle introductions to small group activities or playdates can help them build confidence in social settings.
Teach simple coping strategies
Show your child easy coping techniques like squeezing a stress ball, counting to ten, or taking deep breaths when they feel upset. Practicing these skills regularly makes them more likely to be used when needed.
Acknowledge efforts to control emotions
When your child makes attempts to manage their feelings, notice it and praise their effort, even if the outcome isn’t perfect. Positive praise builds their self-esteem and encourages emotional growth.
Avoid over-stimulation
Keep environments calm and avoid overwhelming your child with too much noise, crowds, or sudden changes. Over-stimulation can increase anxiety or emotional outbursts, especially in children with SEND.
Provide opportunities for movement and sensory play
Physical movement and sensory activities (like playing with water, sand, or dough) can help children release energy and emotions in a constructive way, encourage relaxation and self-regulation.