Helped, Heard, or Hugged?
There are so many ways to support a child in distress. You can give children a sense of control by offering three ways you may be able to help… and letting them choose.
When children are in distress, asking them the best way you can offer support can be a powerful strategy: “Do you want me to help you, hear you, or hug you?” After all, we all need different things at different times, and every child is different. Just like Grandma Nell, you can simply ask children what they need:
- Helped: Children may want concrete help solving a problem.
- Heard: Often, children just want to be listened to—to vent or talk through what’s going on.
- Hugged: Children may simply want some physical comfort! (Remind children that if a safe, trusted adult is not around, they can try giving themselves a hug.)
You can also pose this similar question: “Do you want a pal (a friend to sit with you, listen, and be kind), a partner (someone to help you solve a problem), or privacy (some quiet time alone)?”
Learn Along the Way
Watch this video to see how Elijah and Daniel navigate changes in media and technology with a positive attitude.
Talk... and Color! Adult-child Coloring Page
An activity with tools, tips, and playful ideas to empower families to foster digital well-being and develop healthy habits related to media and technology.
Screen Time & Safety Tips
Information and resources about screen time, online safety for kids, and digital well-being.
Unplugged: Creating Device-Free Family Moments
When children and grown-ups spend time together, especially without media, children benefit in so many ways. Explore these tips to nurture meaningful moments and support digital well-being in your family.
Tech Talk
An activity with tools, tips, and playful ideas to empower families to foster digital well-being and develop healthy habits related to media and technology.
Growth Mindset…for Grown-ups!
Staying positive can help you navigate changes and take on challenges with confidence.
Using Your Words
A coloring page helping children explore words for big feelings.
