Week 5 Homework, Tips and Case Studies

Exercise 1: Understanding Emotions in Difficult Conversations

Take a moment to reflect on your own emotions during challenging discussions about your child’s school refusal. Write down three emotions you commonly feel in these situations. Then, consider how these emotions might influence the conversation. Are there specific triggers or patterns you notice? This exercise helps you become more aware of your emotional responses, paving the way for a more controlled and constructive conversation.

Exercise 2: Identifying Triggers and Avoidance Patterns

Reflect on past difficult conversations about school refusal. Identify common triggers that escalate tension or lead to avoidance behaviors. Consider both your triggers and your child’s. Write down at least three triggers for each. This exercise allows you to pinpoint specific challenges and areas that may require focused attention in future conversations.

Exercise 3: Establishing Communication Ground Rules

Create a list of communication ground rules for difficult conversations with your child about school refusal. Include guidelines such as active listening, maintaining a calm tone, and avoiding blame. Discuss these rules with your child, ensuring mutual understanding. Having agreed-upon communication norms can enhance the effectiveness of your conversations.

Exercise 4: Behavioral Contract Drafting

Sit down with your child and collaboratively draft a behavioral contract addressing school refusal. Begin by clearly outlining expectations for attendance, identifying specific behaviors that contribute to refusal, and establishing rewards or consequences. Encourage your child to express their thoughts and suggestions during this process, fostering a sense of ownership.

Exercise 5: Role-playing Difficult Conversations

Engage in role-playing exercises with a partner or friend to simulate challenging conversations about school refusal. Practice maintaining a calm and unemotive demeanor while addressing concerns and collaboratively finding solutions. This exercise helps you build confidence and refine communication skills for real-life situations.

Great work. Remember working with your child is really important for the success of these strategies. Don’t forget to comment in the Forum or private Facebook group and we’ll touch base again in Lesson 6 where we’ll look at strategies to handle anxiety, a theory called Cognitive Distortions which can affect the way your child thinks, and why it’s important for you take care of yourself during these difficult time. See you next Lesson.