Some kids love to ham it up, and spending time in front of the camera is natural for them. But what if your child is more of the timid type? The camera can feel a bit intimidating. As Picture Day approaches, you may sense heightened anxiety, especially if this is their first time getting school pictures taken.
Rest assured, the Lifetouch Preschool Portraits experts are specially trained to handle all types of personalities during the Picture Day event. As a parent, you play a key role easing anxieties before the big day. If your child seems nervous about getting portraits taken, here are some simple things you can do at home to help:
Talk about it: Have your child sit by you or get down to their level to talk about how they are feeling in a calm, thoughtful manner. They may provide you with more detail about their worry so you are then able to set their mind at ease.
Explain what to expect: When kids know what to expect, they are better able to mentally prepare for Picture Day. Explain how everyone dresses nicely, the teacher will lead them to exactly where they need to be, then they'll wait in line before it's their turn.
Talk to the teacher: Teachers know their preschoolers' personalities pretty well; however, they may not know the extent of your child's worries. If you feel they may need a little extra guidance on Picture Day, reach out to your child's teacher so they can put a plan in place to help.
Volunteer: Often preschool centers invite volunteers to assist on Picture Day. This might be a good opportunity for you to help out the class, and by having you nearby, your child may feel more comfortable.
Go last: Ask if your child can go to the end of the line. By doing this, they can observe what other classmates are doing first so they know what to expect.
Draw your worry: Child therapists often use this technique to get kids to speak about complex emotions they can't yet communicate vocally. By having your child express themselves in an alternative way, you may get down to the source of the problem.
Deep breathing: Calming exercises can ease anxiety, and one of the easiest is deep breathing. Have your child imagine they are filling up a balloon by breathing in slowly to the count of five. Then have them imagine the balloon is deflating as they exhale to the count of five.
You are so brave: Talk about other times your child was brave. Tell them how proud you are of them trying new things. This is a real self-confidence booster before Picture Day.
Share: Dig out your old school pictures and show them to your child. It's fun to reminisce, and your child will see that this tradition will help them be just like Mom and Dad.
Explain it's fun: Lower expectations and do not add pressure. Tell your child not to worry about how they look and to just be themselves. You love them exactly how they are!
Some kids love to ham it up, and spending time in front of the camera is natural for them. But what if your child is more of the timid type?