Tips To Teach Kids About Healthy Boundaries | The Blue Elephant

Tips to Teach Kids About Healthy Boundaries

Personal boundaries are essential to our mental and physical well-being as humans, so learning how to set healthy boundaries is a very important skill for children to acquire. However, teaching children about healthy boundaries isn’t always an easy conversation. As the premier choice for a private preschool in Frisco, TX, The Blue Elephant Learning Center follows a progressive curriculum that fosters meaningful learning and development. Read on to learn some helpful tips from us on how to talk to children about healthy boundary setting

Explain the Different Types of Boundaries

Before learning how to set them, it’s important to teach children there are different types of personal boundaries:

  • Physical – These boundaries help protect our personal space and define comfort levels with physical touch because understanding the right to bodily autonomy is an important lesson for children to learn.
  • Mental/Emotional – Mental and Emotional boundaries work together to help govern how we form our thoughts and regulate our emotions as well as how we respond to the emotions of others.
  • Material – Material boundaries determine how we share our possessions with others and our comfort with doing so, and also help us decide when it is and isn’t appropriate to do so.

Work on Social and Emotional Awareness

Developing a foundation of social and emotional awareness helps children learn to decipher their boundaries in different situations. Learn to ask age-appropriate questions such as “how did that make you feel” as different situations arise to help your child begin to think more critically about how they react and why.

It’s Okay to Say “No”

One of the most important things you can teach your child is that they have the right to tell others “no” when they feel a boundary is being crossed. Many adults still find it difficult to say no, even when they feel the situation calls for it. Teaching your child when it’s okay to tell others “no” will help them become more comfortable using it when needed.

Be a Good Example

One of the best ways to help your child understand healthy boundaries is leading by example yourself. Start by assessing your boundaries to determine if they are appropriate and whether you abide by them. Then, have open conversations with your child during times you have to enforce them.

The Premier Frisco, TX After School Program

The Blue Elephant Learning Center is proud to be the go-to private preschool in Frisco. Our team of caring, skilled professionals utilizes a research-based curriculum to foster a fun and safe learning environment for all our students. Enroll your child in the best Frisco, TX after-school program – contact The Blue Elephant Learning Center to learn more about joining our family, or download our enrollment form today. We can’t wait to meet you!