Pause First
Tap the yellow button.
Stop and Think
Helping your child pause before a fast choice
Many neurodivergent kids struggle with:
- impulse control
- waiting for a turn
- stopping their body quickly
- reading danger or social cues in the moment
- choosing a safe action when excited or upset
That does NOT mean they are trying to be bad.
It means the pause skill may need to be taught clearly and practiced often.
TEACH THE “PAUSE BODY” RULE
Before correcting:
Are their feet stopped?
Are their hands safe?
Can they hear you yet?
If not → pause the body before teaching the choice.
REAL TIME PAUSE TOOLS
If your child is moving too fast:
- feet stop
- hands safe
- take one step back
- smell the cocoa
- blow the steam
- pick one safe choice
- notice the pause
Instead of:
✕ “Stop it.”
✕ “Calm down.”
✕ “Why did you do that?”
✕ “You know better.”
✕ “Quit being impulsive.”
☑ “Pause.”
☑ “Feet stop.”
☑ “Hands safe.”
☑ “One breath first.”
☑ “You can ask or wait.”
☑ “Show me the safe choice.”
☑ “You stopped your body. That helped.”
Regulate → See → Try → Do → Reflect
Helpful tools
Use a Support Right Now
Pick a simple tool to help your child get ready before listening, learning, or starting.
Calm Body Tool
Notice body states and choose calming supports.
Start with calm →First Then Board
Show what happens first and what comes next.
Create a board →Task Breakdown
Turn overwhelming tasks into small steps.
Break it down →Visual Schedule
Show routines with pictures and clear expectations.
Build a schedule →