Don’t Ask Your Kids This Question! Here Are Plenty of Better Options
Understanding When a Child Needs Help
Educators, just like parents, worry about a child’s well-being. Knowing what behaviors to look out for and when to seek help is essential for a child’s social, emotional, and physical wellness.
Due to COVID-19 and the challenges of our current world, many have experienced trauma, grief, and loss. Coping mechanisms are being used to navigate these events, but how do you know when a child’s emotions and behaviors warrant professional help? The Child Mind Institute offers the following questions to guide parents in assessing their child’s developmental, social, and emotional health:
Questions to Ask
- Which specific behaviors are worrying you? Identify the behaviors that raise concerns about your child’s development.
- How often do these behaviors occur? Note the frequency of the behaviors and whether they affect daily life.
- Are these behaviors age-appropriate? Compare your child’s behaviors to developmental norms. Seek input from educators to gain perspective on group and social behavior.
- How long has the child exhibited the behavior? Temporary responses to events are normal, but persistent behaviors may need attention.
- Is the behavior disrupting their life? Consider whether the behavior is preventing your child from participating in activities they once enjoyed.
If you feel your child may need professional help, start by consulting with your pediatrician, who can provide a referral to a mental health specialist. School counselors can also provide valuable support in addressing emotional challenges.
Explaining School Counseling
- Talk to your child about their feelings and how you can support them.
- Explain what a school counselor does, describing them as a “feelings doctor” who helps children manage emotions and develop coping mechanisms.
School Counseling in Real Time
Students can meet with counselors individually or in groups to learn about topics such as mindfulness, responsibility, self-control, coping skills, conflict resolution, self-esteem, stress management, and more.
If you believe your child would benefit from school counseling, inquire with your principal about available services. Master’s-level counselors can help your child navigate adjustments and challenges to support success in both the classroom and at home.
About the Author
Stephanie Siciliano, M.Ed.
“There is always light, if only we are brave enough to see it. If only we are brave enough to BE it.” – Amanda Gorman
