Supporting Children With Emotional Disturbance

Children with emotional disturbance are often aggressive and lack strong coping skills. Therefore, emotional disturbance conditions can be difficult for parents and teachers to navigate. Geo Psychological Testing has compiled a list of tips for supporting children with emotional disturbance:

 

Be your child’s advocate in school

Children with emotional disturbances often have specific academic needs. No one will advocate for your child if you don’t! Supporting children with emotional disturbances means meeting with teachers and administration to ensure they receive the academic accommodations necessary to succeed in school. Furthermore, communicating with your child’s teacher and asking for updates on your child’s progress and behavior is important as well.

Lead by example

Self-regulation is a learned behavior. Therefore, it’s important that you model emotional intelligence and self-regulation for your child. When frustrated or angry, take a step back and breathe through the frustration. Focus on your breathing until you are calm enough to respond rather than react. When your child is experiencing strong emotions, walk them through these steps until they have calmed down.

Encourage open dialogue

Teaching your child how to express big emotions is just as important as teaching them to self-regulate. Having the space to safely express their emotions without fear of judgment is important for children with emotional disturbances. Instead of growing frustrated with their big emotions, sit down face-to-face, ask them questions about how they’re feeling, allow them to freely communicate, and offer alternatives for coping.

Concerned your child may be struggling with an emotional disturbance disorder? The professionals at Geo Psychological Testing specialize in emotional disturbance testing. Schedule a visit with one of our licensed clinical psychologists today!

 

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