As parents, we need to allow the space for our children to express those feelings, so in turn, those feelings are out of their head and heart so that they are more readily able to move on in a constructive way and not feel so ‘heavy.’
Children experience every emotion and sensation deeply and powerfully. An experience such as school can be a frightening one.
They can feel scared, lonely, a sense of loss as well as disruption.
By talking to your children about how they feel, how their first day was, what their favourite part was, and maybe what their least favourite part was, it allows space for them to ‘vent’ and get clear on how they really feel in a safe way. In turn, this creates connection and trust between you both.
These are simple emotion skills that you are teaching your little ones just by asking simple open-ended questions whilst listening without distraction, with presence. This simple tool also includes being able to recognise, express, understand and manage a whole range of their feelings.
Connection and presence with warmth while being responsive to their needs is truly the greatest gift that you can give to your child!
I truly feel that when we as parents become more of who we are by simply teaching our children emotion regulation, we grow too, because parenting will do that. By connecting with our children in this way, it also gives us a chance to find more of ourselves, because we are growing just as much as they are. What a privilege.
Nikki Smith, is the founder of Earthway Parenting and mother to 3 beautiful, sensitive, and boisterous little women. She has been a Registered Nurse for the past 12 years with a 4-year hiatus in between so that she could be a mum. Nikki also has a Postgraduate in Maternal Child and Family Nursing and has been working and supporting families on the Gold Coast, Northern Rivers and now Central Coast of NSW Australia over the past 5 years. Nikki’s expertise is in early infancy and toddler behaviour. She is passionate about maternal mental health and wellbeing as well as providing wholistic conscious parenting support.
You can find further inspiration, support and information at earthwayparenting.com.au and join their Facebook and Instagram communities.
