1. Help Create Social Connections
Support children and families in building connections with relatives, peers, and community members—both in person and virtually.
2. Talk With Children
Invite children to share their thoughts and feelings. Let their responses guide how you support and communicate with them.
3. Encourage Community Support
Normalize help-seeking and connect families to community resources and supports.
4. Support Friendships
Create opportunities for children to talk, play, and practice empathy and listening skills with peers.
5. Share Clear, Reliable Information
Reduce stress by sharing accurate, up-to-date recommendations and guidance when available.
6. Encourage Self-Care and Regulation
Promote routines and strategies that support emotional regulation and well-being for both children and caregivers.
7. Be Silly and Playful
Use humor, play, and spontaneity to build connection and reduce stress.
8. Look for and Celebrate Strengths
Notice what is going well and acknowledge children’s and families’ strengths and positive moments.
9. Engage With the Community
Participate in community decision-making and advocate for policies and programs that support children and families.
10. Encourage Families to Create Positive Moments
Remind families that it’s never too late to build positive experiences and lasting memories together.
Source:
Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences (HOPE), Tufts Medical Center
PositiveExperience.org