Fostering Resilience in Children During Life-Changing Events
Recently I was doing research regarding what helps children be resilient when faced with life-changing events. Very quickly, it became clear how important relationships are in fostering children’s resilience. In fact, positive family relationships are the hallmark for helping children weather the different metaphorical storms they face, should they be life-changing or not.
Irwin Sandler, a psychologist from Arizona State, stated, "When something outside your control changes your life, it’s what you do with what you can control that really shapes your children.” From his research, five things emerged that resilient families do well:
- Create traditions and family time that take into account the new normal
- Prioritize self-care
- Actively listen to children
- Maintain some structure and/or rules
- Help children develop coping skills
Okay, with that information, I’m off to participate in our new, since quarantine, Friday family game night, while I paint my daughter’s toes, listen to her woes, all while making sure we start on time, follow the rules and take deep breaths when (not if) a conflict arises. I’ll keep you posted on how it goes!
Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
