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)?”
Episode 1 - Ask an Expert: Choices
In the first episode of this six-part series, hear from an expert about how daily decision-making plays a role in family digital well-being.
Episode 2 - Ask an Expert: Notice
In episode two of a six-part series, explore strategies your family can use to build awareness about feelings, choices, and behaviors related to technology and media use.
Episode 3 - Ask an Expert: Making Connections
In episode three of this six part series, explore ways that families can use media and technology to connect and strengthen their relationships with one another.
Using Your Words
A coloring page helping children explore words for big feelings.
C is for Choice
A game about making choices, big and small.
“Celebrating Choices” Collage
Celebrate the ways you choose to spend time together as a family!
Making Healthy Choices Around Digital Media: A Conversation with Vikki Katz, Ph.D.
Learn strategies for making good choices for your family's digital well-being from expert Vikki Katz, Ph.D.
