Personal Characteristics of Resilient Children What are the qualities that allow children to be resilient to life’s Stresses? Are problem solvers Can gain the positive attention of others Have an optimistic view of life Feel independent Seek novel experiences Approach life from a proactive perspective Feel they can control their environment Have a sense of humor Are able to empathize with others Have effective problem solving skills and coping strategies (Frieman,p. 11)

Family Characteristics of Resilient Children What family qualities will promote resilience? Parents who are competent, loving and patient, A good relationship with at least one parental figure An array of alternative caretakers who step in when the parent is absent Little separation from the primary caretaker during the first year of life, A network of friends (Frieman p.11) And others who step up to mentor and guide: Teachers, counselors, coaches, clergy, mental health workers and neighbors.

Promoting Resilience Role Models: “We teach by what we do.” What do you do when you mess up? Helping Behavior: What does Helping Behavior Look Like? Trustworthy, dependable, consistent –yourself even if you slip up. Attuned to your own feelings. Warmth, care and respect towards children Encourage them to be independent Take on perspective of child Accept students with all that they bring Positive Classroom What does a classroom that promotes resilience look like? Expectations for learning- push to work at highest potential Psychologically safe atmosphere-team work- seek help, collaborate A community that encourages children to take initiative

Problem Solving “Problem Solving is a Learned Skill” How can we intervene and teach problem solving? Help students remember previous successful experience problem solving Look at alternative solutions with advantages and disadvantages If choice does not work-try another alternative Books to teach problem solving Draw, write, talk about alternatives characters face in solving their problems Mutual Story telling. Teacher starts a story with a problem- children make up alternative endings- an ending where the children are powerful and solve the problem