Tips for Working with a Child Who Is Usually Less Positive

Friends, Family and Home

• Share family stories with happy endings.
• Involve her in playgroups, and encourage friendships with many children.
• Give some notice before outings to discourage negative reactions.
• Allow everyone to share good things that happened today during meals or before bedtime.

Learning, Childcare and School

• Praise his artwork, and ask him about things he enjoyed at school.
• Find books in which the characters solve problems with a positive attitude.
• Ask the teacher to assist her in developing friendships.
• Let teachers know that baby may be fussy, and encourage them to be soothing and loving.

Activities and Television

• Involve him in fun activities with other children.
• Encourage her to play games without complaining about fairness.
• Participate with him in fun activities.
• Avoid television with sad themes and unhappy endings.

Guidance and Discipline

• Talk to her about positive, happy things in her life.
• Tell him when you see him enjoying activities and being happy.
• Let her know that you appreciate her!
• Recognize that a baby many seem crankier or smile less, and increase your efforts to cuddle and be loving.