Memories

For ages 3 - 5 years

Gently suggest that your child tell you about his or her best memories by drawing a picture or finding one in a magazine that reminds him of a good memory. Young children can show you how they are remembering simply by their selection of colors and lines in their drawings.

Encourage your child to think about what he remembers smelling, hearing, and how his body felt at the time of the good memory. Listen, comfort, and respect his memories. After discussing several positive memories over several weeks, and when you feel comfortable, suggest that he thinks about his saddest memory, following the same routine. Then, end by going back and talking about the good memory.

Explain to your child that his sad feelings won't stay forever, just like it doesn't rain forever. Sad feelings can come and go. When they do come back they won't stay for long. Tell your child that he can have happy and sad feelings at the same time. Let your child know that it's okay to still have fun and laugh even when something sad has happened.

Finish by asking your child to tell you in detail about one of the "funnest" times he remembers.

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