Why is Emotion Regulation important?
Creative Sky Psychology believes in the importance of helping children grow and develop to become their best selves. Emotion regulation is a key aspect of healthy child development. In fact, Emotion Regulation should be taught as core subject in school. Kids in the hallways should be saying "Hey what did you get on your Emotion Regulation Final Exam"?! "Did you write your Emotion Regulation Diplomas yet"? My mom is going to be so mad, I only got a 65% on my Emotion Reg test, it was on managing frustration".
Emotion regulation doesn't mean that a child shouldn't feel mad or sad, rather it is their ability to manage and control emotions in a healthy and adaptive way. The self-help industry has often over emphasized the importance of being "happy". This is nonsensical. Negative thoughts and emotions are a part of being human, the goal should be to learn thought recognition and regulation. A child with poor emotion regulation will often struggle with family relationships, academics, self-esteem, and with building and maintaining friendships. These are important factors that are involved with achieving overall success and growth. Emotion regulation is just so so so important for overall well-being and mental health, as well as having a "best life experience".
How can therapy support Emotion Regulation Challenges in children and teens?
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of therapy that can be used to address emotional difficulties, and can support children to improve their emotion regulation skills. CBT can help children identify and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs, and can help with developing coping strategies to manage emotions in a healthy way.
Mindfulness: Mindfulness is a technique that involves paying attention to the present moment, without judgment, in order to increase awareness and acceptance of thoughts, emotions, and sensations. Mindfulness can be a helpful tool for individuals with difficulties with emotion regulation, as it can help a child or teen develop a greater awareness of their emotions and improve their overall well-being.
Emotion regulation skills training: Emotion regulation skills training is a type of therapy that focuses on teaching individuals specific skills for managing and controlling their emotions. Emotion regulation skills training involves learning tools and strategies that are unique and tailored to a child's strengths and interests. Creative Sky Psychology creates Emotion Regulation Plans with children to support thier ability to move through big emotions when needed.
How to parent children with emotional challenges?
Parenting a child with emotional challenges can be challenging, but with the right approach and support, it is possible to help your child develop the skills to build emotional tolerance.
Seek professional help: If your child is struggling with emotional challenges, a therapist or psychologist can provide support, develop a treatment plan, and offer guidance for you and your child. Find a therapist who specializes in working with children or teens.
Create a stable, predictable environment: Children with emotional challenges often benefit from a predictable actions. This may involve creating routines and structure, and establishing clear and consistent boundaries and expectations.
Practice active listening and positive reinforcement: Encourage open communication with your child by actively listening to their thoughts and feelings, and acknowledging their perspectives. Offer support and encouragement to your child, and help them build self-esteem and confidence by praising their strengths and accomplishments. When talking about their emotional challenges, discuss it as a challenge that can be worked through with some time, patience, and problem solving. Let them know that you are on their team.
Teach coping skills: Teach your child coping skills and strategies for managing their emotions, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and problem-solving. Track what works and what doesn't. Start small and be open to the process.
Take care of yourself: Taking care of your own emotional and physical well-being is important, as it will help you to support your child during difficult times. When parents can co-regulate or stay calm during emotional challenges, their child or teen will be able to regulate more quickly. They also learn emotion regulation through modelling when parents are able to teach through doing!
