Problem: Death In The Family
While it is a terrible situation, it is inevitable and something you will have to explain at some point. No one wants to address this sad issue, but it’s better to find positives in the situation.
Solution: Loss is difficult to explain, especially to younger children who may not have experienced it yet. Allow the situation to bring your family closer together and ignite relationships with extended family you may have grown apart from. Encourage your family to spread love to anyone they care about and offer plenty of hugs to anyone who needs one.
Problem: Cross Country Move
No one wants to pull their children away from a familiar environment or group of friends but sometimes situations will force your family to make a tough decision. Children of all ages may act out in response and generally add stress and struggle to an already difficult time for your family.
Moving is not easy but you can involve your children in the moving process.
Solution: Some of the children, particularly if they are older, can be encouraged to communicate with peers. Email, social media, and traditional letters can be used to share messages and pictures with loved ones left behind. You may even encourage them to set up a kidsafe blog that will allow them to share their feelings along their journey. Children of all ages can use the experience to learn about their new destination. Create activities and go on family adventures that explore what the new area has to offer.
Every situation in your life can be used as a learning lesson to bring your family closer together. Rather than dwelling on the negative elements of a situation, look for ways to see the positive and move forward. It’s up to you to teach your children to focus on the positive and grow from the experience.
How do you cope with a bad situation?
