Reframing Parenting Challenges for Connection and Growth

Simple thoughts for a better connection

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In This Week’s Newsletter:

  • Quote of The Week -

  • Javaree Talks - Reframing how we think about our kid’s behavior

  • Good On Social - 3 reasons to stop yelling at your kids

  • In The News - Dr. Becky says to do nothing for a smoother morning with kids

  • Dad Joke Of The Week -

JAVAREE TALKS 

Parenting is challenging, especially when our children's emotions overflow in ways that test our patience. In these moments, it's easy to feel frustrated. I get it!

However, the transformative power of reframing how we see their behavior is noteworthy. It can change our approach and strengthen our relationship with them. Kids aren't trying to make our lives difficult; they often signal unmet needs or struggle to navigate big emotions. How we respond can either escalate the situation or build a connection.

Below, I explore how adjusting our lens can help us become more intentional, compassionate, and present dads. Often, it’s how we talk to ourselves about what is happening with our children.

"My child isn't giving me a hard time. They're actually having a hard time."

When kids act out, they often signal unmet needs like connection (feeling isolated or disconnected, such as when they're not getting enough attention), structure (lack of routine or predictability, like when they're unsure of what's expected of them), or emotional safety (feeling threatened or insecure, such as when they're scared or anxious). By shifting our perspective, we can meet these behaviors with empathy rather than frustration, building a healthier relationship.

"I can't control my son or daughter's emotions, but I can control mine and influence theirs."

This simple yet powerful realization underscores our influential role in children's emotional development. By modeling calm and patience, we can teach kids emotional regulation, which is the ability to manage and respond to an emotional experience in an appropriate way. This gives them life-long strategies for managing challenges. This responsibility we hold as dads is to be recognized, as it can significantly influence our children's emotional well-being.

"Childhood is a construction zone - physically, mentally, and emotionally."

This understanding helps us be patient with our children, knowing they learn and evolve daily. Recognizing their rapid development is not just important but crucial to fostering a supportive and understanding environment. It's a reminder that they are not just 'acting out ' or 'doing, ' but also growing and learning, and this recognition can make us more understanding parents.

"Our children need us most during their toughest moments."

Showing up means being present, listening, and offering comfort. It's about being a steady, supportive presence in their lives, especially during their most challenging moments. For instance, when they're upset, you can sit with them, listen to their feelings, and offer a hug. Offering steady love and support during difficult times builds resilience and trust, showing them they are not alone in their struggles.

GOOD ON SOCIAL

IN THE NEWS

DAD JOKE OF THE WEEK

What do you get when you cross a snowman with a dog?sd

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Frostbite

Q & A CORNER

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