Toys, toys, toys!

Now that Christmas has come & all of the toys have been unwrapped, pay attention to your child's favorites.  Put away (for another time) those toys that your child isn't showing much interest in.  This will really help to minimize the over-stimulation & meltdowns.

Meltdowns & Patience

If your child(ren) is/are having meltdowns, your patience would be most helpful to your child(ren). Children typically meltdown when they feel out of control from within.  Sitting with them & letting them know that you're there to help, can go a long way.  It may not be easy in the moment, but patience is warranted.

Are you beginning to see behaviors in your child at school that are atypical?  This is often due to the overwhelming feeling of so much change upcoming in their routine.  Those changes often trip triggers to their past, causing them to be anxious about what's coming next.

Holiday gifts for your child(ren)

During this holiday season with all of its hustle & bustle ... take the time to give your child(ren) the gift of YOU!!!  Time with your child(ren) is more important than stuff.

Wishing everyone a very HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!  If your child is struggling today with all of the change in routine, or all of the people you have over, or because of the places that you're visiting ... just take a few minutes to go into another room alone with your child.  Have them sit on your lap & be sure to bring out some things that calm.  Reassure them that you're there with them if they need anything.

Since Thanksgiving is just a week away, it's a good time to start talking with your children about all of the changes in routine that are going to occur.  The changes at school, the changes to Mom & Dad's work schedule, the changes to the amount of people/who will be at the dinner table on Thanksgiving.  Let them process & ask questions.

Holiday Changes & Behavior

As Thanksgiving nears & routines change, be aware that you may see some unusual behaviors in your children.  When you ask why they're behaving this way & they say "I don't know," try & be patient with them because they really don't know.

My deep appreciation

I would like to take a minute to thank all of the families that have been involved in my Emotions of Adoption journey.  My deep appreciation goes out to all that sent photos, testimonials, wrote personal notes of support, & delievered kind words of support through Facebook.  Your support has meant the world to me.  Thank You!