Aggressive behavior in children can stem from a variety of factors, ranging from prolonged separation from home to academic stress and an unhealthy family environment. However, experts suggest that there are effective ways for parents and teachers to help children maintain self-calm and mental composure.
Vijay Kumar Agarwal, Founder and CEO of Makoons Play School, shared valuable insights on addressing this issue.
Establishing Friendship and Trust
Agarwal emphasizes the importance of teachers and parents building a bond of friendship with children. This helps eliminate hesitation, brings them closer to their elders, and fosters a positive, open relationship where children feel comfortable sharing their troubles.
Educating About Appropriate Responses
Teaching children how to perceive actions and respond to them appropriately is crucial. Agarwal suggests educating them that not every issue needs to be dealt with aggression or an overly radical mindset.
Motivation and Encouragement
When children don’t receive adequate encouragement for their accomplishments, they may develop an attitude of anger and disgust toward their elders. Parents and teachers should consistently encourage children for their efforts, motivating them to reach greater heights.
Introducing Meditation
Agarwal highlights the benefits of introducing children to meditation, which has proven instrumental in restoring mental peace, promoting self-calm, and improving overall mental well-being.
Krishan Sharma, Vice President of Marketing and Support at Academic Heights Public School, elaborates on strategies for helping children self-calm and react appropriately.
Identifying Triggers
The first step is to recognize the common triggers, such as frustration, fatigue, hunger, and envy, that cause aggressive behavior in children.
Teaching Self-Calm Techniques
Equipping children with self-calm techniques, including deep breathing, counting, visualization, and journaling, empowers them to manage their emotions independently.
Encouraging Open Communication
Creating an environment where children can share their thoughts and feelings without judgment helps foster better understanding and solutions.
Setting Limits and Consequences
Establishing clear boundaries and consistently enforcing them, while also rewarding positive behavior, reinforces the importance of self-control.
Developing Problem-Solving Skills
Encouraging children to brainstorm solutions to their challenges helps build their autonomy and resilience in managing their emotions.
Seeking Professional Help
In cases of persistent and severe aggression, seeking guidance from professionals like pediatricians, therapists, or counselors can provide specialized support.
By implementing these strategies, parents and teachers can help children develop the necessary skills to manage their aggressive behavior, fostering their emotional growth and preparing them to face challenges with resilience.
