
Positive Problem Solving
We can help children learn to solve problems – a key part of resilience!
Critical thinking, self-control, planning, persistence, and reasoning skills help children solve problems and make good decisions. Grown-ups can help little ones build these skills during everyday moments, and it’s important to first help children feel safe to try, try, and try again!
Watch this short video to learn these simple strategies for building these skills:
- Connect – create an environment in which children feel safe to try
- Identify – help kids express problems in their own words
- Think – encourage kids to consider different solutions
- Try – cheer kids on and let them know that sometimes we have to keep trying!
After watching, take a look at Teaching Belly Breathing and Elmo’s School Friends to help put these strategies into practice.

Safe & Together
When families have to leave home in order to stay safe, it helps to remember that home is where the love is.

Bubble Time
A quiet activity such as blowing bubbles can help both children and adults breathe deeply, slow down… and calm down.

Crayon Power
Coloring together can soothe both children and grown-ups.

See You Later Alligator
A special, loving good-bye routine can make separations easier.

Friendship Bracelets
When it’s hard to be apart from those we love, the littlest things can become big reminders that someone loves us and is thinking of us.

Cloud Watching
Spending time outside can feel like a “reset” on the day.

Pillow Hugs
Hugging a pillow covered with an item of a loved one’s clothing can help comfort children when they’re missing them.