Susan Damico, M.A., Director, Devereux Center for Resilient Children, discussed resiliency in an isolated world and promises that it is never too late to develop coping skills. We discussed that we all are suffering during the COVID lock down, but children and youth are also affected by how their parents and caregivers react. As they miss out on important school and social milestones, they are especially vulnerable during the holidays, and Ms Damico suggested creating and embracing new traditions this year, including going virtual, and focusing on the gift of giving. Her favorite advice for handling a potential melt-down, FLIP it. Acknowledge the ‘Feeling’ and that its okay to feel upset or sad, recognize the ‘Limits’ that are there, ‘Inquire’ about possible alternatives and finally, ‘Prompt,’ make suggestions for a different approach or activity. She points out that anyone can use this to calm down, deflate stress and react positively to stressful situations and recommends the free resource page found at centerforresilientchildren.org including a worksheet to evaluate your own ability to cope. Her final advice, be kind; you don’t know how or what another is feeling, your kindness can make a huge difference in reassuring and soothing someone in distress.
