How to Teach Kids Self-Control Strategies

Children who have self-control can express their feelings in healthy ways.

If your child has ever kicked and screamed when you didn't buy her ice cream or when another child took her toy away, it's time to teach her self-control. According to KidsHealth.org, teaching your child self-control is one of the best things that you can do for her. If she learns self-control at an early age, it will help her act properly in stressful situations that she might encounter later in life.

Instructions

1. Tell your child to take a deep breath and count to 10 when she feels like losing control. Demonstrate this strategy when a situation overwhelms you.

2. Teach your child how to deal with wanting something he can't have. Ask him to describe or draw a picture of something he wants but can't have, such as a pet rabbit. Suggest ways to deal with the situation, such as asking a friend if he can play with his pet rabbit. Help him understand the strategy by acting out the situation with puppets.

3. Teach your child how to identify anger. Help her recognize signs of anger, such as flushed cheeks, a louder voice and clenched fists. Explain to her that recognizing the signs of anger will help her calm herself down before she loses control.

4. Help your child understand her feelings. Encourage her to think about why she is upset before she loses control. Explain that it's better to talk to someone she trusts about what's upsetting her than to lose control.

References

• KidsHealth.org: Teaching Your Child Self-Control
• Dr. Michele Borba: Anger Management Strategies for Kids
• National Association of School Psychologists: Teaching Young Children Self-Control Skills