When a child feels frustrated, his first reaction may be to lash out instead of communicating his problems. The turtle is an activity that gives him a chance to calm down and talk about the problem. According to Jacquie Weeks, an educator at the O.A.C.A.C Head Start Program of Springfield, Missouri, the child will put his hands over his head like a shell. While in that position, he reflects on the situation and tries to explain the frustration as calmly as possible.
Feeling happy and exuberant is a good thing, but preschool children have a habit of being loud when they are happy. Help a child control her volume by teaching the “inside voice.” When she gets loud, simply tap her on the shoulder. Place a finger to your lips and have her do the same. She will begin to recognize this as a reminder to be quiet. Talk in calm, soothing tones to show her how quiet her inside voice should be.
Young children often have trouble expressing themselves in a sensible way. Sitting down with the child and asking direct questions like, “What made you mad?” or “How are you feeling?” gives him a starting point for expressing himself. Taking him out of a frustrating situation and giving him your undivided attention will help him cool down and articulate. Be patient, though. If he is upset, he may speak incoherently until he calms down. Keep your voice soothing and concerned until you find the reason for his frustration.
Sometimes firm discipline is the best course of action when it comes to controlling emotional outbursts. For example, if you have a student who continually hits when she’s frustrated, setting her in timeout to cool down will serve as a deterrent for future outbursts. After time out, talk with her about alternatives to her violent outbursts. For example, tell her to count to 10 and then do the turtle until a teacher is able to help.