BIGFeels NYC
SEL Coaching
Self-Control & Impulse Control
Self-control and impulse control helps children consider consequences before acting, pause before reacting, and practice patience in challenging moments. These important self-management skills help children make thoughtful choices and build trust with others.
However, it can be challenging for children to exercise self-control, especially when they're excited or frustrated, immediate rewards feel more appealing than delayed ones, or they haven't yet built the habit of pausing. This isn't a sign of bad behavior—these are developing skills that strengthen with practice, consistency, and the right support.
Through activities and coaching, BIGFeels NYC helps children develop their capacity to pause before acting, manage their impulses, and practice patience.
Skills We Teach For Self-Control & Impulse Control
Children practice four core abilities that support self-control and impulse management:
Coaching For Self-Control & Impulse Control
BIGFeels NYC uses evidence-based activities designed to strengthen self-control and impulse management:
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"Stop and think" games and impulse control exercises
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Waiting games with gradually extended wait times
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Turn-taking practice and patience-building activities
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"What might happen if...?" consequence prediction
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Reflection on past choices and their outcomes
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Impulse-resistance challenges (resisting urges)
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Alternative actions when impulses arise (redirect energy)
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Real-world self-control practice (waiting, sharing, taking turns)
We work with families to create custom strategies that honor your child's unique strengths and support their developing capacity for self-control and impulse management. View a sample intake report or book your free consultation below: