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9 Activities To Help Foster Children Manage Anger

Children who find themselves in the foster care network have often experienced highly challenging situations. As a result, it is not uncommon for them to display a complex range of emotions including anger.

As a foster parent, it is essential to be able to recognise the signs of anger in children such as a racing heart or clenched fists, along with emotional cues like feeling frustrated or irritated. 

Doing so can encourage a positive outcome both in the immediate moment as well as over the longer term. That’s because with the right coping strategies, children will be best equipped to recognise and regulate their emotions in a healthy way as they grow up.

For foster carers looking after children who are displaying signs of anger, here are 9 effective ways to bring the situation under control.

Creating a calming corner

Designating a specific area in the home as a calming corner can provide children with a safe space to retreat to when they're feeling overwhelmed. Add comforting items to the area like pillows, stuffed animals or calming sensory tools. Encouraging them to use this space when they're upset can help them regulate their emotions more effectively.

Bonding time with the foster parent

Spending quality time together can strengthen the bond between foster children and their caregivers, providing them with a sense of security and support. Engaging in activities they enjoy, such as playing games, cooking together or going for walks can create positive connections and opportunities for open communication about their feelings.

Journaling

Writing can be a therapeutic outlet for children to express their emotions and reflect on their experiences. Encourage them to keep a journal where they can freely write about what makes them angry, how they're feeling and any positive coping strategies they've discovered. This can help them gain insight into their emotions and develop healthier ways of managing them.

Use mindfulness

Teaching children mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or guided imagery, can help them stay present and manage their emotions more effectively. Encourage them to practise these techniques regularly, both during calm moments and when they're feeling angry or upset.

Use mindfulness

Teaching children mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or guided imagery, can help them stay present and manage their emotions more effectively. Encourage them to practise these techniques regularly, both during calm moments and when they're feeling angry or upset.

Social skills training

Teaching children effective communication and conflict-resolution skills can empower them to navigate challenging situations more successfully. Role-play conversations and practise assertive communication techniques to help them express their needs and boundaries assertively.

Role-playing

Role-playing scenarios that commonly trigger anger can help children develop coping skills and problem-solving strategies. Act out situations where they might feel frustrated or upset and guide them in finding constructive ways to respond and resolve conflicts.

Relaxation techniques

Introduce children to relaxation techniques like progressive muscle relaxation or guided meditation to help them unwind and de-stress. Practise these techniques together regularly to build their resilience and ability to cope with anger-provoking situations.

Art therapy

Engaging in creative activities like drawing, painting or sculpting can provide children with a non-verbal outlet for processing their emotions. Encourage them to express their feelings through art and discuss their creations to deepen their understanding of their emotions.
His face when he doesn't get his way

Final Thoughts

Helping foster children manage their anger is a crucial aspect of supporting their emotional well-being and overall development. By implementing these activities and strategies, foster parents can create a nurturing environment where children feel empowered to understand and regulate their emotions effectively. 

If you’re considering becoming a foster parent and want to learn more about how you can make a difference in a child’s life, contact our team today for guidance and support. 

Together, we can provide a loving and stable home for children in need.