Changes in children's behaviour

You need to acknowledge when your child is behaving differently. A change in behaviour may be the result of different emotions, such as: anxiety, stress, uncertainty.
They may often find different ways to express the feeling they have -  for example they may suggest they have a sore tummy. A sore tummy is much easier to talk about than sadness.

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Talk to your children about how they’re feeling often and how you’re feeling. You don’t want to overwhelm them but you do want to normalise the way they’re feeling. Let them know that when it comes to things that are unknown, it’s ok to feel anxious but reassure them you’re going to look after each other and things have changed for a reason.

• Explain what is happening and try to be honest. Don’t avoid talking to them about it because what children do is, they can start ‘magical thinking’.  Which is where they can believe  that they are causing things – such as: “This illness must exist because I’ve not been washing my hands properly“. Explain to them in an age-appropriate, non-alarmist way what the truthful facts are.
• Look at where they’re getting their information and make sure they are looking at a reliable source. Have a conversation with your child about what they already know and address any misconceptions.
• In addition to looking at the source, make sure you limit exposure to media and how much they’re consuming. Discuss how what they’re seeing and reading makes them feel.
• Finally and importantly, routine! This is really important to help give children the feeling of safety.

Reward Charts

 Reward charts allow children to visualise positive reinforcement and this helps encourage a clear link between the chart and good behaviour.

Visual Timetable

It is important for us to develop a daily routine, as a routine can help us to feel more in control of everything and help us to make room for all that's important. Routine can aid our mental health. It can help us to cope with change, to form healthy habits, and to reduce our stress levels.

I have attached an editable visual daily routine below, which can be adapted for child/ren, carers or whole families.

If you require any help in adapting the timetable, please do not hesitate to get in touch.