Tips for Working with a Child Who Is Usually Serious

Friends, Family and Home

• Help the family to appreciate his more serious nature.
• Involve her in play groups, and encourage friendships with many children.
• Plan fun and light-hearted family activities and outings.

Learning, Childcare and School

• Ask the teacher to involve him in puppets and dramatic play.
• Read nonfiction as well as fiction and humor books to her.
• Ask the teacher to assist him in joining groups for recess and play.
• Ask teachers to make special efforts to hold and cuddle a baby.

Activities and Television

• Involve her in activities with other children.
• Read joke books, and watch funny movies and talk about how fun it is to laugh.
• Provide games and materials that deal with his world and interests.
• Watch science and history shows with her on television, and discuss the show's topics.

Guidance and Discipline

• If he seems depressed, talk to him and ask him how he is feeling.
• Give her time to explain and talk about her actions.
• Let him know that you appreciate him!
• Help her learn to name her feelings by naming them for her at first.