Tips for Working with a Child Who Is Usually in a Happy Mood

Friends, Family and Home

• Ask her to help with younger siblings.
• Ask family members to not use labels, such as "always happy."
• Introduce him to friends that need him, such as those with special needs or who are more serious.
• Point out when family members are feeling sad, and encourage sensitivity.

Learning, Childcare and School

• Don't assume that she isn't smart just because she isn't as serious.
• Ask teachers to encourage him to express all of his feelings.
• Encourage problem-solving games and activities at home and at school.

Activities and Television

• Provide her with activities that require thought, such as strategy games and activities that must be planned and completed in a series of steps.
• Encourage him in service to others.
• When a person is sad or troubled on television, ask her if she ever feels that way, and talk about how she can let people know.

Guidance and Discipline

• Let him know that people will still like him if he is unhappy or serious at times.
• Avoid labels in front of others such as "she is always happy."
• Develop a cue such as a word or gesture that you can use to let him know that he needs to be serious about what is being discussed or what is happening.
• Let her know that sometimes everyone is unhappy and to tell you if she feels down.