Proactive Parenting: Increase Listening or Being Heard
THIS WEEK: We’re talking about behavior, and how to shift the words you use from reactive to mindful. I wanted to share an infographic that Hilary Little posted on Facebook.
If you want to shift from being reactive to being more mindful as you parent, then begin by changing your words.
The “Toxic Positivity” side of this infographic uses words that attempt to shut down a child’s emotions. Even though it’s positive, the child fears they can’t overcome their big emotions so they can do as you suggest. Or they fear not obeying you, so they swallow their feelings so they can “Just be happy!”
Being mindful connects you and your child, opens up your communication, and causes your child to feel heard.
When kids feel heard, they shift their focus from feeling consumed by their emotions, to listening and cooperating.
When kids don’t feel heard, their focus remains on being upset, feeling overwhelmed, or a million other feelings that can consume their focus.
Your assignment this week, should you choose to accept it, is to think about the words you use. All the posts and pictures will be about that subject this week.
DO YOU HAVE an an example of a words or a sentence (1 sentence, only) that you’d like me to transform from being reactive to being mindful?
If so, then place the words or sentence in the comments. Maybe your post will be chosen for Q & A this week. It could happen!
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More about behavior and transforming your words, tomorrow!
Now, go Hug Your Kids.
Sharon