by Catherine Mathews
For children any change in their routine can be upsetting. The younger the child the more difficult it can be to deal with any changes. Our Guides really appreciate when families share this information with them so we can be as supportive of the child and their needs. Often times parents are surprised at what constitutes a big change for their children so here is a good list to go by:
Every Child:
Separation or Divorce
A parent dating someone new
A parent becoming engaged or getting married
A parent going out of town
A parent coming home from out of town
In split households – a change in who will pick up the child
Prolonged family illness or a major medical diagnosis (grandparents and close family members included)
A family member or pet dying (grandparents and close relatives included)
Moving to a new home
An upcoming vacation
A change in extracurricular activities (includes the addition of tutors)
An upcoming change in schooling plans
Any addition or change to the child’s care team (nannies, babysitters, etc.)
Any illness the child has experienced
Infants and Toddlers
Any time a child’s sleep routine has altered
Any time a child’s bowel movement routine has altered
Teething
Family illness (this can make a lot of difference to a child’s day)
Vaccinations
Changes in the food routine of the child
Early Childhood Students
The loss of a favorite blanket or toy
A forgotten school item or rest time item
A change in the child’s sleep routine
Any event that was particularly hard for the child such as vaccinations, doctor appointments, or being scared by a movie
A friend or family member moving away
A family member or pet getting sick or having an accident (grandparents and close relatives included)