The steps of Preventive Teaching combine clear messages and kid-related reasons with practice. Practice gives your children an opportunity to see how they would use the skill before they are in the actual situation. Describe what you would like. Try to keep your mouth closed, take a deep breath, and walk toward your coach when you get upset. Give a reason.
Younger children like to pretend and play different roles in the practices.
Older children and adolescents can be more of a challenge. I'm the referee, and I've just called a foul on you. Show me what you'll do to stay calm. Let's say that you have practiced with your daughter how to stay calm when she gets upset with her friends. Don't say anything, and take a few deep breaths.