This group was specifically interested in discussing ways to handle the sometimes challenging after-school transition time. We often encounter difficult behavior and/or meltdowns as kids transition from school to playtime to dinner, with siblings fighting once they are "reunited" after school.
Potential Solutions:
· Bring food to pickup; a snack can really help.
· Form an instant "connection" by giving 100% focus to the child coming out of school.
· Genuinely listen to your child and "hear the need" even if you can't/ won't meet their specific request.
· Prepare ahead for the end of day as much as possible (i.e., have dinner menu planned)
· Just know it's going to be a challenging time and take comfort in knowing other parents are going through the same thing.
· Use "the zones" language from school.
· Wait a bit and have a conversation with your child(ren) at a calmer time about how the after-school period is going and how it can be improved for everyone.
· Be flexible.
· Try using a repetitive physical action as relaxation (sweeping, wiping table); remember, this too shall pass!
Potential Solutions:
· Bring food to pickup; a snack can really help.
· Form an instant "connection" by giving 100% focus to the child coming out of school.
· Genuinely listen to your child and "hear the need" even if you can't/ won't meet their specific request.
· Prepare ahead for the end of day as much as possible (i.e., have dinner menu planned)
· Just know it's going to be a challenging time and take comfort in knowing other parents are going through the same thing.
· Use "the zones" language from school.
· Wait a bit and have a conversation with your child(ren) at a calmer time about how the after-school period is going and how it can be improved for everyone.
· Be flexible.
· Try using a repetitive physical action as relaxation (sweeping, wiping table); remember, this too shall pass!