There are numerous benefits to journaling, or expressive writing, at any age. Scientific research tells us that journaling can show improvements in mental health, physical health, self-awareness, problem solving skills, creativity, communication, academics - and more!
Emotional intelligence (EI) is the capacity to recognize and manage our own feelings and to recognize and respond effectively to others feelings. The 4 parts to the EI model by lead researcher, Daniel Goleman, are: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness and relationship management. Emotional intelligence can be learned, therefore it is vital to teach these life skills to our children from an early age. It's never too late to begin.
Finding success in the school year ahead means building a connection with your child's teacher. Establishing positive relationships and open communication early on is the best way to support your child in school. Be proactive, patient, respectful, positive and appreciative. This will make for the best school year for you, your child and your teacher.
I am often asked by parents, "How do I get my child to open up about their feelings?" First, we must explicitly teach our children emotional awareness skills - before they are able to share feelings, they need to have an understanding of feelings, gain emotional vocabulary to express their feelings, and understand feeling management. Once we begin supporting them with these skills, it can still be a challenge. Here are some tips on how to get our children to open up when they are feeling down.
Maybe it's time we consider not asking our children what they will become but rather realize they are already something. They are active, contributing members of society that we can learn so much from each and every day.
Transitioning from summertime back into the school year is always an adjustment. This year, much like last school year, due to the Pandemic, we will have some bigger transitions, adjustments, and unknowns. It is important that we offer our children as many answers as possible for what is coming up for them. This will alleviate some of the unknown and prepare them with some confidence transitioning back to school.
I choose to share this very personal post with you because it helps my own emotional expression and I hope that it supports you or a loved one in some way.
Play serves a very important role in the life of our children. Unstructured play boosts happiness, social skills, interpersonal skills, creativity and much more!
Parents, caretakers, educators, anyone with children in their lives, this is a must read on how to fill and refill the emotional cup of a child. What fills their cup? What empties their cup? How do we teach children to advocate appropriately for an emotional cup refill?
Highly sensitive children to highly resilient children. Nurturing our children and meeting their needs; being the best parents, caretakers and teachers, to meet the needs of our unique children.
Understanding emotional intelligence is important for all parents and caretakers. What is it? Why is it important? How can we teach it to our children? Knowledge is power!
We should all do our best to create a supportive environment where our children are free to verbalize, process, and express all emotions.
We need to listen to our children and avoid constantly swooping in to be the “fixer” or be the “dismisser” (not a real word, but it sounds good). Here are fourthings you can do show your child you are present, supportive and attentive!
