We All Want To Be Heard
/Since understanding one's own emotions is key to self regulation, it makes sense that we should at least give this approach a try. Since reading the book "How To Talk So Kids Will Listen, and Listen So Kids Will Talk" (Faber, Mazlish) years ago, I have found that using this approach helps defuse a difficult situation far more quickly than if I try to minimize a child's feelings or dismiss them too quickly. Frankly, if my husband were to say "oh, that's no big deal" when I'm upset, that usually has the opposite effect of helping me calm down!
Here's the article: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/kenneth-barish-phd/how-do-children-learn-to-_b_3890461.html?utm_hp_ref=parents&ir=Parents
I welcome feedback from people who have tried this with their loved ones.