YOUR GUIDING PRINCIPLES FOR CONNECTING WITH YOUR CHILD

Thank you for joining our workshop! We explored how small, intentional shifts can make a big difference in your child's life and in your family. This handout is a quick guide to the powerful strategies we discussed.

1. The Foundation of Connection: The Wait & Watch Method

Before you teach, you connect. This principle, inspired by the DIR Floortime approach, is all about entering your child's world.

• Pause and Observe: Before reacting, take a moment to simply watch your child. What are they interested in? What are they trying to do or communicate?

• Join Their World: Respond to their cues. If they are banging a spoon, you can bang a spoon too. If they are whispering, you can whisper back.

This simple act builds trust and a strong emotional bond.

2. The Power of Predictability: Visual Schedules

Children thrive on routine. When they know what’s coming next, their anxiety decreases, and they feel safe.

• Create a Visual Map: Use simple drawings or pictures to represent the steps in a challenging routine, like bedtime or morning activities.

• Start Small: Focus on just one routine and stick with it. Your child will quickly learn to rely on the visual schedule as a source of comfort and predictability.

3. The 'Why' Behind the Behavior: Sensory Awareness

All behavior is communication. Instead of asking "What's wrong with you?" ask, "What is the need behind this behavior?"

• Observe their needs: Is your child seeking a lot of movement (sensory seeking)? Or are they overwhelmed by loud noises or textures (sensory avoiding)?

• Create a Safe Space: A Calm Down Corner is a great way to help. It's a special spot filled with things that help your child self-regulate, like soft blankets, a pillow, or a favorite fidget toy.