A characteristic of Temperament:
Adaptability
Outgoing, open to change
Shy, prefers strict routines
What does this mean?
Adaptability is a child’s initial reaction to new people or situations and how easily they adjust to change.
What does this look like?
Some children are shy and quiet around new people and situations and have a hard time with change.
Some children enjoy meeting new people and seem unphased by new situations or schedules.
How can I help?
A less adaptable child may benefit from pictures that show their routine for the day, with clear explanations in advance of anything that will be different (e.g., getting picked up early).
Caregivers may find transitions, modeling, and self-regulation skills to be especially helpful.
A more adaptable child may need more direct instruction and rules about not walking off with strangers and other safety measures in new places.
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Quick Tip
- Children that show less adaptability need a little more preparation and time to adjust to transitions and change. They might also have more challenging behaviors at the beginning of the school year, on vacations, or when there are changes in routines.
