Self-Control is the ability to recognize feelings, thoughts and impulses, and act on them in appropriate and healthy ways. It is the ability to act the right way at the right time. Self-Control can be one of the most difficult skills for children (and adults) to master. It takes time and practice. Below you will find resources you can use at home to better understand self-control, and help teach this important skill to your child.
Resources for Young Children:
Information:
Self-Control: What it Means for Kids
https://www.understood.org/en/friends-feelings/common-challenges/self-control/self-control-what-it-means-for-kids?_ul=1*16p48gl*domain_userid*YW1wLXpEV0k3LWdBRFNUamZKcFJjTmRnUlE.
Helping Your Grade School Child Gain Self-Control
https://www.understood.org/en/friends-feelings/common-challenges/self-control/helping-your-grade-school-child-gain-self-control
Activities:
Games that Teach Self-Control
https://www.familyhconline.com/teach-children-self-control/
Breathing Exercises
https://copingskillsforkids.com/deep-breathing-exercises-for-kids
Managing Anger
https://copingskillsforkids.com/managing-anger
Videos:
Just Breathe
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVA2N6tX2cg
Sesame Street: Self-Control
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0YDE8_jsHk
Resources for Adolescents:
Information:
Teaching Self-Control to Teens
https://www.boystown.org/parenting/article/Pages/teaching-self-control-to-teens.aspx
Helping your High School Child Gain Self-Control
https://www.understood.org/en/friends-feelings/common-challenges/self-control/helping-your-high-school-child-gain-self-control
Activities:
Breathing Exercises
https://www.6seconds.org/2018/08/12/three-breaths-for-lowering-your-cortisol-level/
Videos:
Helping Teens Learn Self-Control