How to Develop Coping Skills in Youth: Ideas to Try at Home
Life throws curveballs to all of us, and kids are no exception. They experience a rollercoaster of emotions, but sometimes they lack the tools to express themselves or deal with strong feelings. That's where Boys & Girls Clubs come in!
We equip youth with coping skills to manage stress and build confidence. Here's a glimpse into how our Clubs are building coping skills and how you can apply it to your home:
Create a Safe Zone for Calming Down
Feeling overwhelmed? Make a "Zen Den"! This designated space at Boys & Girls Clubs of Sonoma-Marin provides a space for an emotional check-in and break. Kids identify their feelings through provided charts, practice breathing exercises, and choose from fidget toys, weighted blankets, puzzles, or yoga mats to relax and reset. Similar "sensory rooms" at other Clubs offer comfy couches, Lego, and stuffed animals!
Group Talks: Sharing Makes it Easier
Talking about feelings can be tough. To help both younger and older kids feel comfortable opening up emotionally, it’s important to know they’re not alone. Being in a group can sometimes make it easier to talk about feelings and experiences. This can help young people feel understood and supported as they face their own challenges.
Empowering Kids: How They Practice Self-Care and Calming Techniques
We aren’t the only ones with ideas for managing mental health! Boys & Girls Clubs of Sonoma-Marin also asked Members from different Clubs how they manage their emotions and practice self-care:
“I paint rocks with happy words and place them in a circle so that my friends can come into the circle to feel safe, and they can add their own.” - Riley, 1st grade
“When I feel too much static in my body, I don’t want to talk. I want to sit next to a tree and ground my body.” - Jessie, 4th grade
“When I am feeling upset, I let it out by making loud noises and going for a walk until I’m ready to share what I’m feeling. I take three deep breaths with my Club Lead. Breathing in thoughts that bring joy then breathing out the hardness.” - Ryder, 6th grade
"I take time to sit and focus on my breathing and sometimes do dance-like movements to shake everything off." - Amanda, 8th grade
While we can't control everything, Boys & Girls Clubs provides the tools to navigate life's ups and downs. At the Clubs, we offer emotional and social wellness education, resources, and activities to help kids reflect on their feelings and communicate effectively.
This story was adapted from BGCA.org.