understanding child and adolescent development
holding conversations – language, eye level – interests,
concerns
encouraging children to talk
reflective listening – ‘That sounds scary. What did you do?
open-ended questions – ‘How do you feel about that?’
social skills, civilities – modelling, guided practice
encouragement, specific praise –helpful words and phrases
managing difficult behaviour – distraction, emotional firstaid
things to avoid – preaching, being judgemental, asking why,
prying, dismissing feelings, belittling, over-involvement.