Coping with change is among the leading challenges facing students. And helping them to cope with change is important.
Causes of Change and Effects
There are many things that can agitate a child or and adult when it comes to change. For example, changing a seating arrangement in the classroom or a household routine can alter the balance and security of a child; cause anxiety, fear and spill into their concentration and school life.
Coping with change
People react to change differently and how they cope is important. Hoping that the uneasy feeling will go away, waving it off like a bad smell, or pretending it’s not there might seem like the best way to handle the situation. However, according to many crisis management specialists, -talking is high on the list for coping and managing how people feel about change.
How to talk about change with kids
- Like getting your kids involved from the word go. Usually, children don’t have control over the major changes at home or at school and that can be challenging and make them feel anxious, worried, and insecure. By involving them in the process and decisions, you help them feel better about the situation and themselves.
- Listen to their concerns and contributions and acknowledge them. It’s important to allow your kids to feel and show their anger, sadness and even fear.
- Be honest about the reasons for the change and let your kids know how you feel as well. Let them understand that these feelings are normal.
- Give your kids time and space to digest and adjust to the situation.
- Create a positive learning environment at home to help their transition process.
- Supporting learning through fun activities.
Start early discussing the changes with your kids if you are aware. Of course, there are changes that creep up uninvited. Should that happen, follow the 4 steps above. These steps can also be used by adults. According to the Australia’s Better Health Channel “Talking about your problems can release pent-up feelings.”
Take care until next time.
Margaret