We All Want To Be Heard

The Huffington Post recently ran an article on how children learn to regulate their emotions.  It seems that the best way is to help them feel heard and understood.

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.
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Moira Sullivan

Moira uses a holistic approach that promotes healthy development in the child while honoring and supporting their relationship with their family and the community. A graduate of San Jose State University, she has advanced training in sensory integration, visual perception and visual-motor integration, DIR Floortime, oral motor rehabilitation, strength and endurance training, and myofascial release.