Life is full of changes: some big, some small, some that we like and some that we don’t like. Being resilient (or being able to bounce back) can help us to deal with change more easily.
Any kind of change, whether good or bad, brings with it some degree of stress, as we have to step out of our comfort zone, or familiar world, into the unexpected.
Change for children can be particularly tough as it can challenge their sense of security, safety, and predictability within their world. Also some children react more strongly to change than others because of their temperament.
Christine Hawkins
Owner KMEC Hunter
So here are a few things to try to help them cope better with the stress of change:
Maintain routines
If you and your child are undergoing a period of change, it helps if you can keep most of your child’s routine the same.
Prepare children for what may happen and be honest
Tell children of any changes in advance of them occurring if possible. Do this in a reassuring tone. Answer any questions they may ask. Try not to impose your view of the situation, but see how they perceive the change. Talk openly and honestly about their feelings. Work out a plan of action together.
Be a good role model
Your children are watching and learning from how you approach life and respond to change. Do you demonstrate optimism and hope? Do you see change as a chance to experience something new? Or are you scared by it and avoid it at all costs? If the last one is true for you, it’s important to care for yourself in a way that increases your own resilience so you can best support the development of resilience in your children.
