Triggers
List the things that seem to trigger your child. Triggers are things that make your child mad, sad, upset, anxious, or distressed.
Examples:
Hearing “no,” unexpected change of plans, being bullied, loud noises, arguments, not understanding homework
Be as specific as possible. Hearing “no” is much more effective if you can specify what hearing “no” to will trigger, such as “hearing ‘no’ to requests to stay out later than curfew.”
Warning Signs
List the physical, emotional, or behavioral signs that your child is feeling distressed or triggered. Try to include some that are unique to your child.
Examples:
Being quiet, isolating from friends or family, clenched fists, irritable, argumentative, quick breathing
Support from Caregivers
What things does your child find supportive when they are upset? Some children like support from parents or caregivers. Some children resist it. List the supportive things you can do that are realistic for your home and your family.
Examples:
Give your child space, remind your child to use their self-care plan and review their trigger list.
Offer to take a walk with your child and check in on your child every 20 minutes.
Some families use the '6 Hour Rule' in which challenging family discussions are paused for a minimum of 6 hours. This gives each member of the family time to calm down before resuming difficult conversations.
Coping Skills
List the things your child does to calm when they are distressed or triggered. Only list coping skills that are safe, healthy, and positive on the CPP. It is helpful to list many types of coping skills like distractions, self-soothing techniques, and problem-solving skills.
Examples:
Read a book, go for a walk, use an “I Statement” to talk it out, color in a coloring book, take deep breaths, drink a cup of tea
People and Resources to Call
List the people and resources you or your child can call in a crisis. It is helpful to have many people listed here so your child can always access a resource if in crisis.
Examples:
Parent, aunt or uncle, grandparent, therapist, trusted teacher or coach, mature friend, youth or community group leader, teen hotline, county crisis line
If your child is admitted to the Child Psychiatry unit, the following will be completed prior to discharge:
- A family team meeting to identify concerns and establish goals.
- An individualized crisis plan will be developed.
- An aftercare service plan will be made.