Big feelings in little bodies can be overwhelming!
At the heart of ABA therapy is helping children not just manage behaviors, but truly understand and navigate their emotions. We believe that emotional regulation is a superpower that every child can develop with the right support. ABA therapy and emotional regulation can go hand in hand.
Our approach? It's all about giving your child the tools they need to become emotional detectives and problem-solvers.
We start by teaching them to recognize and name their feelings - because you can't manage what you can't identify!
We have used some free emotion identification materials you can download:
Check in and 5 Point Scale by Itty Bitty Speech
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Check-In-Five-Point-Scale-FREEBIE-4616746
Emotion Flashcards by Summit Therapeutics ABA and Autism Resources
From there, we explore how emotions feel in the body (like those butterflies in the tummy) and introduce a toolkit of coping strategies.
Deep breaths, counting to ten, or squeezing a stress ball - whatever works for your child. At times it is helpful to use something physical your child can see themselves move while taking a deep breath such as blowing bubbles or blowing air through a pinwheel.
But it's not just about calming down. We also focus on communicating feelings effectively and understanding what triggers certain emotions. It's like giving your child their own emotional roadmap!
Developing emotional regulation is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate the small wins along the way - every time your child uses a coping strategy or expresses a feeling appropriately, that's a victory worth acknowledging!
Some of the coping skill visuals we use are from Teachers Pay Teachers:
Coping Skills Poster by Mindful Matters Counseling
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Coping-Skills-Poster-10760660
Calming Visual Reference Sheets by Inspiring Special Educators
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Calming-Techniques-Visual-Reference-Sheets-10554241
Behavior Coping Skills Toolbox by Caroline Koehler
Parents, what's been your biggest challenge or success in helping your child manage emotions? Let's share and learn from each other!
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