Tips for Raising Considerate Children

It's that time of year again when we give thanks for our many blessings. We express our gratitude and many of us reach out to others in need in the spirit of giving. One day a year is nice, but how can we encourage our children to be more grateful, caring and considerate all year long?

Help encourage considerate behavior with these tips from the Triple P Positive Parenting Program, generously funded by The Children’s Trust:

Children demonstrate consideration for others when they:

• Listen
• Share and let others have a turn
• Ask what others would like to do
• Wait when others are busy
• Think about others' feelings
• Help others
• Are friendly and welcoming
• Help out at home

Parents can encourage consideration by doing the following:

• Modeling being considerate yourself. Children are sponges and they are very much aware of your behavior.
• Avoid criticizing others. Set an example and let them know that accepting others for who they are is important.
• Point out others’ good points. Focus on the positive.
• Provide opportunities to show caring. Thanksgiving or any other holiday is a great time to do this, but opportunities exist every day. Simply holding the door open for someone or saying "thank you" frequently will send a clear message.
• Praise your child for being kind or helpful. By recognizing and reinforcing their positive behavior, you are likely to see more of it.
• Ask your child about his or her feelings. Show your children that you care about them and that will encourage them to follow suit.
• Encourage your child to make amends. 
• Provide a consequence for inconsiderate or hurtful behavior. This is very important - but even more importantly, make sure you enforce that consequence in a calm and clear-headed manner.

Source - Triple P Positive Parenting Program

Here are 14 tips for both parents and kids for coping with stress from the Anxiety & Depression Association of America.

1. Take a time-out. Practice yoga, listen to music, meditate, get a massage, or learn relaxation techniques. Stepping back from the problem helps clear your head.
2. Eat well-balanced meals. Do not skip any meals. Do keep healthful, energy-boosting snacks on hand.
3. Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can aggravate anxiety and trigger panic attacks.
4. Get enough sleep. When stressed, your body needs additional sleep and rest.
5. Exercise daily to help you feel good and maintain your health.
6. Take deep breaths. Inhale and exhale slowly.
7. Count to 10 slowly. Repeat, and count to 20 if necessary.
8. Do your best. Instead of aiming for perfection, which isn't possible, be proud of however close you get.
9. Accept that you cannot control everything. Put your stress in perspective: Is it really as bad as you think?
10. Welcome humor. A good laugh goes a long way.
11. Maintain a positive attitude. Make an effort to replace negative thoughts with positive ones.
12. Get involved. Volunteer or find another way to be active in your community, which creates a support network and gives you a break from everyday stress.
13. Learn what triggers your anxiety. Is it work, family, school, or something else you can identify? Write in a journal when you’re feeling stressed or anxious, and look for a pattern.
14. Talk to someone. Tell friends and family you’re feeling overwhelmed, and let them know how they can help you. Talk to a physician or therapist for professional help.

Source: The Anxiety & Depression Association of America