INCREASING MELT DOWNS DURING HOLIDAYS? = CREATE A VIZUAL SCHEDULE MAPPING OUT NORMAL ROUTINE

As the Holidays are approaching, one helpful thing to create is a picture schedule with your children. While the holidays are usually a busy and happy time for adults, this time can feel opposite for children who are out of their routine- This is where the picture schedule will help! You can use clip art, magazines or a drawing on a dry erase board- the more simple, the better! 

Children’s brains think in pictures- providing them with visual icons to represent what activities are taking place will soothe them and let them know what to expect. Try as much as possible to stay on bedtime and daily routines to help the child keep normalcy to their schedule while out of their school routine. 

See the picture above for an example.

DOING AN ELF ON THE SHELF? = HERE’S A FUN SPIN

What you focus on you get more of. Conscious Discipline asks us to use the Elf on the Shelf to use the power of attention. Allow the Elf to be the vehicle that retrains our eyes to see the love and positivity that surrounds you. 

You can help children in your care grow up seeing the glass half full. Talk to your children about what it means to see the best in others and that Elf is looking for the best in you.

Ex. The elf saw you _______________________. (Helping your brother pick up toys, so you could walk safely on the floor.) That was helpful. 

Helping your child focus on the positive, helps them focus on positive behaviors.