Teach coping skills

Why should I do it:

Improves kids self-confidence and self-esteem
Increases instruction time
Improves students’ independence
Helps students to be more assertive
Decreases the time it takes to deal with students’ crises, issues, meltdowns, etc
Provides students a good life long skills
Helps to empower students
Improves behaviors
Improves student problem solving
 

When should I do it:

All students should be taught coping skills and they should regularly be modeled for all students
When a student frequently has melt downs, falls apart, cries, experiences anxiety, has issues with friends
When students seem to have trouble handling criticism, failure, disappointment, conflict, decision making, etc
When students have trouble appropriately expressing emotions, like sadness, disappointment, frustration, happiness, excitement, etc
When you are having to frequently stop to console, encourage, or settle kids down
 

How do I do it:

Depending on the situation, need, and child, there are numerous ways to teach kids coping skills
Always try to use active listening skills
Use a clam tone
Be firm when necessary and set boundaries
Use support and resources below for specific lesson plans, ideas, strategies, and skills