Psychoeducation and caregiver coaching

Adapt the language to development, culture, and the family’s understanding. It supports trained clinician work and does not replace training or an individualized parenting plan.

Begin with their questions

Ask what the family already believes about stress reactions and therapy. Offer one relevant explanation, then invite them to describe it in their own words. Avoid promising a particular outcome or correcting every misunderstanding at once.

Original example language: “Sometimes the body’s alarm stays on after something frightening. We can learn about that alarm and practice ways to handle it together.”

Select one caregiver skill

Identify an everyday situation and a specific, achievable behavior to encourage. Help the caregiver notice the child’s effort and give clear, timely praise. Practice a brief instruction and a predictable response together. Consider whether expectations fit the child’s abilities and current stress.

• What is already working in the relationship?
• What might the child need before following the instruction?
• What can the caregiver do to settle themselves before responding?

Make practice manageable

Agree on one ordinary opportunity to try the skill. Ask about barriers and choose a smaller version if needed. Never use ignoring for dangerous behavior, disclosures, or requests for protection; address safety directly. Tailor any behavior-management strategy through assessment and coaching.

At follow-up, ask what happened without blame. Reinforce effort, adjust the plan, and make room for caregiver questions and emotions.