Step 6
Children don’t just learn from what we say - they absorb how we are.
If you model self-awareness,
they’ll catch on.
Talk about your feelings: “I felt cross earlier. Now I feel calmer after a break.”
Narrate what helped: “I took a breath and thought about things that made me happy.”
Reflect together: “You were frustrated earlier. What helped you feel better?”
Let all feelings be welcome - not just the happy ones.
Say it aloud even when they’re not listening (because they are).
Real-life Wins:
You mutter, “I’m feeling stressed but I’m trying not to yell,” and later your child tells their teddy, “I was grumpy…but I’m breathing now.” Teddy is clearly thriving.