Whether we’re aware or not, children who cross our paths are often judged quickly, and with limited time in the moment for deep reflection.
Recently, we here at Think:Kids came across a popular posting, shared enthusiastically amongst thousands of moms and dads via social media outlets regarding tips and tools for thinking differently about the motivations of children.
We re-worked some of these situations to highlight other possible explanations for what might be getting in the way of a trick-or-treater near you this Halloween. It incorporates some of the skills we at Think:Kids know that children need to be more able to manage situations differently.
Hope you’ll enjoy, and please do share with us your thoughts and experiences- both ghoulish and gay- while out with your kids this week!
The child who is picking more than one piece of candy…is likely doing this quickly, without a great deal of thought, at all. Actually, it probably happened within seconds in one great big impulsive swoop! Not all children are as able as others are to think things through, and evaluate the possible outcomes of a course of action. Be compassionate. Try to understand. They need our support. They need our Help.
The child who takes forever to pick up one piece…might have a hard time processing the available options quickly enough to make a confident choice. Be patient. They need our support. They need our Help.
The child who does not say trick or treat or thank you…might not know a good way to open up a conversation and may not be able to read your facial cues or the subtleties found in your tone of voice. Be kind. Offer a gentle place to start and notice the impact of your style of communication on the child. Are they receptive? Overwhelmed by the verbal back-and-forth? Be curious. Be flexible. They need our support. They need our Help.
The child who looks disappointed when they see your bowl…might be confused, scared, worried, excited, happy, irritated, or disappointed. Not all children can keep calm enough to think when they feel strong emotion. Be the calm you hope to see. Take a deep breath. Share your confidence that the moment will pass. Show compassion. They need our support. They need our Help.
The child who has no plans at all…is likely wishing that just one day someone will ask them along to trick-or-treat. Look for this child. Open your door to him, and help him take those first social steps. Make a play date. Set another. All children have the need to feel accepted and cared for by other children. They need our support. All children need our help to grow.
