This can include children who have learning and behavioral differences, as well as children who don’t.

As a parent, you can help your child cope. Be aware of challenging traits and behaviors. Have a few strategies to manage them when possible. Here are some examples:

• Prepare your child for what’s coming if he strongly dislikes change. Example: “When the timer goes off, you will need to put your toys away. It will be time to go to the store.”

• Make your child comfortable if he is highly sensitive. Let him choose comfortable clothes. Avoid large crowds, or try short visits to crowded places.

• Include lots of physical activity if your child has trouble sitting still. For example, include playground time on a busy day. Help him practice sitting to listen to a story for a couple of minutes at a time, then gradually stretch it out.

• Help your child have fun if he seems negative. Talk about happy times. Encourage joyful things, such as jumping into a big pile of leaves.

• Help your child calm down if he gets very angry. Have him try counting to ten backward or breathing deeply. Or suggest a short run around the yard or block.

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