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 calm tone
• Be firm when necessary and set boundaries
• Use support and resources below for specific lesson plans, ideas, strategies, and skills