New school? New neighborhood?
Guiding children through change
Guiding children through change
Change can be unsettling for people of any age, but it can be particularly tricky for kids because they may not have the experience to navigate it as adults do. Helping our children learn to handle change is a gift that will serve them well throughout life.
Here are some thoughts.
Change can be unsettling for people of any age, but it can be particularly tricky for kids because they may not have the experience to navigate it as adults do. Helping our children learn to handle change is a gift that will serve them well throughout life.
Here are some thoughts.
One big thing
No matter what change swirls about us, God is the constant. His love, protection and grace remain unchanging, and we have to cling to that truth as the world around us shifts. He has a perfect plan, and he is constantly moving us in the direction of that plan.
Talk, talk and talk some more
Fear of the unknown is usually the root of challenges that accompany change. Kids need to process verbally and externally with someone they trust. They need to ask questions and unpack their worries. When we understand where their thoughts are leading, we can redirect them with perspective, truth and reality. I had a new student once who was terrified because he didn’t see the cafeteria at open house and was afraid he would have to wait until he got home every day to eat. A simple chat solved everything.
Make the list
What are the pros and cons of the change? As you chat and compile the list, you can open a child’s eyes to the potential good that comes with change and become aware together of the worries you can offer in prayer. Asking questions such as, “What good things would you like to happen when you (move or switch rooms or go to a new school)?” or “What blessings, graces and lessons do you think God might have in store for you?” As the change unfolds, circle back to the list and see how God is leading all of you through the change.
Prayerfully plow through
Change can be overwhelming, but if we break it down into parts and pray through one part at a time, peace is possible. Walking with kids right through the middle of change can offer strength. Praying for the virtues of courage and joy helps shift the focus from “it’s not what I’m used to” to “new things can be good.”
Although we are creatures of habit who like the familiar and the comfortable, God is never going to leave us right where we are. His plan is to move us ever closer to himself, and that means we must be people of trust and faith. God didn’t leave his chosen people in the desert, and he’s never going to lead us through a change that isn’t perfectly designed to strengthen our holiness.
Sheri Wohlfert is a Catholic wife, mom, grandma, speaker and writer. Catch her blog at www.joyfulwords.org.
