Family Constellations for Children
Some children have difficulties in dealing with school stress, such as homework, test anxiety, bullying, or peer pressure. They also may need to discuss their feelings about family issues, particularly if there is a major transition, such as a divorce, a move, or serious illness within the family. Through play, different exercises and Family Constellations for children, in a brief period of time, we help them to build resources, to find tranquillity and relief in the difficult areas of their lives.
Family Constellations can help children and adolescents to develop problem-solving skills while teaching them the value of seeking help. They can benefit from Family Constellations as it helps them and their families to cope with stress and a variety of emotional and behavioural issues.
Family Constellations for Children
We look at the issues that may be affecting their school performance and relationships with peers or teachers. Those issues can be connected to the relationships and communication within the family.
Should My Child do a Family Constellation?
Family Constellations can be of great help when it is not clear what causes a child to suddenly become withdrawn, worried, stressed, sulky, or tearful. It is also helpful if you sense your child might have an emotional or behavioural problem, or needs help coping with a difficult life event.
Significant life events — such as the death of a family member, friend, or pet; divorce or a move; abuse; trauma; a parent leaving on military deployment; or a major illness in the family — can cause stress that might lead to behavioural problems, mood, sleep, appetite, and academic or social alterations.
Signs that a child may benefit from a Family Constellation include:
- Learning or attention problems (such as ADHD)
- Behavioural problems (such as excessive anger, acting out, bedwetting or eating disorders)
- Eating disorders- Bulimia and Anorexia
- Significant drops in grades, particularly if your child normally maintains high grades
- Episodes of sadness, tearfulness, or depression
- Social withdrawal or isolation
- Being the victim of bullying or bullying other children
- Decreased interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Developmental delay in speech, language, or toilet training
- Overly aggressive behaviour (such as biting, kicking, or hitting)
- Insomnia or increased sleepiness
- Excessive school absenteeism or tardiness
- Mood swings (e.g., happy one minute, upset the next)
- Development of or an increase in physical complaints (such as headache, stomach-ache, or not feeling well – despite a normal physical exam by your doctor)
- Management of a serious, acute, or chronic illness
- Signs of alcohol, drug, or other substance use
- Prescription drug abuse
- Problems in transitions (following separation, divorce, or relocation)
- Bereavement issues
- Custody evaluations
- Anger issues
Family Constellations for Children can be done in person, by phone or online in English, Spanish or Portuguese.