Wes and Elijah go Heart to Heart
Moments of connection help you create a warm, supportive emotional space… for both you and your child!
When you take a quiet moment to connect with children when they need it most, you both benefit! Close, loving moments help children manage big feelings and remind them that you care about their feelings.
And as you soothe your child, you’re also taking care of yourself — by noticing your own emotions and how you handle them. When you model a comforting strategy, such as taking deep breaths and sharing a good, long hug, you’re both benefiting from it!
Share this video in which Wes and his dad, Elijah, practice “co-regulation”— tuning in to your child’s needs, offering them what they need, and finding ways to connect that soothe both of you. They’re demonstrating how close physical contact with safe and trusted adults is so valuable to young children and their caring grown-ups.
Resting and slowing down the body is a great way to connect with sensations and explore feelings. You can practice a strategy similar to Wes and Elijah’s during everyday routines and moments… and whenever children need it:
Invite your child to rest their head on your belly as a pillow. Gently lie on your back. You can both close your eyes if you wish. Then, both of you take a deep breath in through your nose, out through your mouth. Take two more breaths. Open your eyes and sit up slowly. How do you feel?
Did You Know? Research shows that we benefit the most from hugs that last at least six seconds.
Caring for My Brain: Bedtime Meltdown
When children don’t get enough rest, their big feelings may feel even bigger… and less manageable!
Caring for My Brain: Brain Food
Food impacts our feelings and moods!
Caring for My Brain: Twiddlebugs Get Moving
When we move our bodies, we’re taking care of our brains.
Count on This! The 6-Second Hug
Hugs that last six seconds or more are best for soothing our minds and calming our bodies… helpful for adults and children alike!
Count on This! The 10-Second Hum
Humming for 10 seconds or more can help both children and adults calm their minds and bodies.
Taking Care of My Brain
Mental health is part of overall health—healthy minds and bodies are all one. Help children understand how important our brains are, and how we can take care of them!
Thanks, Feelings Helpers!
Help children understand the role of “feelings helpers”—social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, and other professionals who know how to help when big feelings get too big.