Teaching Kids Cause And Effect
Exploring cause and effect with kids helps them to understand the physical, social, emotional, and functional consequences of behaviors.
This reflection on behaviors allows them to appropriately repair negative or unintended consequences, and refine future behaviors to seek positive outcomes.
A great way to explore behavior is through stories! Books can introduce kids to the complexities of conduct through empathetic perspectives and adaptive expression. The books in our BEHAVIOR selection create space for children to explore, understand, and reflect on their behavior and the behavior of their peers.
Books that demonstrate Cause and Effect:
These books explore The Power to Choose through a choose-your-own-story format. This format allows kids to explore different emotional and behavioral reactions and the accompanying consequences. In life, we won’t always make the right choice, but there is always an opportunity for reflection, repair, and refinement.
Find these books and more in our recommended book list about BEHAVIOR. See our full collection of book recommendations HERE.
A book that highlights: behavior, friendship, choices, & repair.
“Darla is a young and spunky astronaut-in-training. She wants to go to Mars one day, just like her favorite doll, Astronautica. But before she does, she will need to learn to navigate through relatable scenarios that so many kids face on a daily basis. Written in a "Choose Your Own Story" format, your kids can help Darla through her day by making choices for her! There are eight stories in one, so the fun never ends!”
A book that highlights: behavior, friendship, choices, & repair.
“Written in a "Choose Your Own Story" style, the book follows Danny, a Superhero-in-Training, through his day as he encounters choices that kids face on a daily basis. As your children navigate through the different story lines, they will begin to realize that their choices for Danny shaped his day into what it became. And in turn, their choices for themselves will shape their days, and ultimately their lives, into what they will be.”
Free Printable Resources:
Every kid is different and we have to tailor behavior management plans to their individual needs and abilities. Read on for practical guidelines for a balanced approach to behavior management.
This worksheet helps kids identify, relate to, and troubleshoot emotional and behavioral patterns. The visual worksheet is accompanied by talking points to help kids take new perspectives and build empathy and resilience.
Find this activity and more in our THERAPEUTIC ACTIVITIES tab.
By visually tracking progress on a sticker chart, we can help kids increase motivation, develop self-discipline, and reinforce positive habits.
A significant part of anger management is understanding the roots of our anger. The examination of anger contributes to self-empathy and allows for the utilization of targeted coping skills.
Foster a growth mindset with this exercise that emphasizes the value of effort.
Find this resource and more in our WRITING PROMPTS tab.
This writing exercise helps kids identify their values and preferences while prompting them to find productive alternatives.
Not getting enough sleep can change the way we feel our emotions. What other factors effect the way we feel and behave? This worksheet helps kids understand how different environmental, physiological, social, emotional, or physical factors may effect their emotional expression. When kids understand their feelings, they are better able to self-regulate and have empathy for themselves and others.
Find this activity and more in our THERAPEUTIC ACTIVITIES tab.
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Our collection of free printable parenting tools offers practical, easy-to-use resources to improve communication, encourage positive behavior, and create a nurturing home environment.