Tips on Social Emotional Learning: Optimistic Thinking
As we close out another week of distance learning, we wanted to share some additional resources that might be of interest on Social and Emotional Skills – the tools children (and adults) use to understand and manage emotions, social interactions, and every day emotional responses. Developing and nurturing these skills in our children can help them become happy, productive, and successful adults as they appreciate how to think and act in stressful or challenging situations.
Every few days for the next couple of weeks, we will send out some additional information on this topic that may be of interest to your family.
Today we wanted to share information on Positive/Optimistic Thinking, one of 8 critical areas of importance for well-being. Here is some information about this topic and how to use the “Even If” strategy to keep things positive at home: Optimistic Thinking
Keep in mind: Words are powerful. Long after we’ve parted company, the words we heard and the tone in which they were said stay with us. Focusing on specific examples of your young person’s abilities and strengths helps them believe that we really see them as an individual, and that we respect and admire them for who they are.
Here are some creative ways to promote Optimistic Thinking in your home:
*Write “Our Family” in the middle of a piece of construction paper and add a comment or two about your family’s strengths. Invite other family members to add their comments. Hang this in a high-traffic area of your home so it can be added to and enjoyed.
*Make Encouragement Posters for each person in your household.
*Work together to make a list of things your family is thankful for.
*Recognize and compliment optimistic thinking.