Raising Resilience in Preschoolers
Even if your child may not officially be in “big kid school,” your preschooler is likely experiencing a lot of change. Your child might be adjusting to new routines, learning how to manage their feelings, and exploring their boundaries and independence. You can help your child build resilience by embracing the ups and downs of daily life with them, and teaching them how to cope with challenges, manage stress and make healthy choices along the way.
In this article:
Preparing your child for school
Starting school for the first time can be both exciting and overwhelming for kids (and their grown-ups) as they adjust to a new schedule, place and friends. While we can’t prepare our kids for everything, we can help set them up for success.
Teaching your child to express and manage their feelings
When we teach kids the words to label their feelings, we’re helping them express what they feel and need. In addition to teaching the words for feelings, kids also need help learning to manage how they feel. One way you can help your child learn to manage their feelings is by teaching them healthy coping skills.
Setting limits and encouraging independence
Some preschoolers may be showing more signs of independence, while others may need more encouragement to do things on their own. Either way, all kids need help understanding boundaries and expectations. While it may be tempting to jump in and handle things for them, remember that kids learn by doing. But they need guidance along the way.
Printable Resilience Resources
Print out these resources to work on raising resilience with the children in your life.
If you or a loved one are experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm, call the Georgia Crisis and Access Line (GCAL) at 1-800-715-4225. You can also chat or text for support by downloading the MyGCAL app in the app store or on Google Play. For those outside of Georgia, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255. Any thoughts of suicide should be taken seriously.