Emotional Well-Being … Are We Proactive or Reactive?
In a world where our children face an ever-growing array of challenges, the importance of nurturing their emotional well-being has never been more vital. Parents and educators understand that emotional well-being is not just a buzzword; it’s the cornerstone of a child’s healthy development. By taking a proactive approach, we can equip our children with the tools they need to thrive emotionally and academically before they begin to struggle.
I’ve gathered a great deal of research and in this article, we delve into the concept of being proactive with emotional well-being, drawing insights from some of our renowned experts such as Jon Kabat-Zinn, the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), and the Pediatric Society of Canada.
What Does the Science Say?
Introduction
In a world where our children face an ever-growing array of challenges, the importance of nurturing their emotional well-being has never been more vital. Parents and educators understand that emotional well-being is not just a buzzword; it’s the cornerstone of a child’s healthy development. By taking a proactive approach, we can equip our children with the tools they need to thrive emotionally and academically before they begin to struggle.
I’ve gathered a great deal of research and in this article, we delve into the concept of being proactive with emotional well-being, drawing insights from some of our renowned experts such as Jon Kabat-Zinn, the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), and the Pediatric Society of Canada.
What Does the Science Say?
Jon Kabat-Zinn
Renowned for his work in mindfulness-based stress reduction, Jon Kabat-Zinn emphasizes the importance of cultivating mindfulness practices, not just for adults but also for children. Research suggests mindfulness techniques can help children manage their emotions, reduce anxiety, and enhance their overall emotional well-being.
By teaching children to be present at the moment, to acknowledge their feelings without judgment, and to use mindfulness exercises like deep breathing, parents and educators can contribute significantly to their emotional development. Mindfulness offers children a toolkit to navigate their emotions effectively.
The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL)
CASEL has conducted extensive research on social and emotional learning. Their findings indicate that children who engage in SEL programs tend to perform better academically, experience fewer behavioral issues, and have improved emotional well-being.
SEL involves teaching children vital life skills such as self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and effective communication. This holistic approach enables children to understand and manage their emotions, form healthy relationships, and make sound decisions. Implementing SEL strategies at home and in the classroom fosters an emotionally nurturing environment for our kids.
Insights From the Pediatric Society of Canada
The society emphasizes the importance of early intervention in children’s emotional well-being. Their research indicates that children who receive early support for emotional challenges are more likely to develop the necessary skills for emotional regulation and resilience.
Parents and educators play a crucial role in identifying signs of emotional distress in children and providing appropriate interventions. By being proactive in recognizing and addressing emotional difficulties, we can help our children develop a solid emotional foundation for their future.
Proactive Strategies for Nurturing Emotional Well-Being
Open Communication: Encourage children and students to express their feelings openly. Create a safe space where they can share their emotions without judgment. Engage in active listening to understand their perspective. When this becomes normalized, it also becomes natural.
Mindfulness Practices: Introduce mindfulness exercises into daily routines. Simple activities like deep breathing and guided meditation can help children manage stress and anxiety. Children can have a “toolbox” of strategies to choose from.
SEL Programs: As an educator, consider implementing SEL programs in the classroom. These programs can enhance emotional intelligence, problem-solving skills, and social awareness in students.
Early Intervention: Be vigilant in recognizing signs of emotional distress in children. Seek professional guidance when necessary to address emotional challenges proactively. Follow your instincts if you feel something is of concern.
Use Visualization Techniques and Engaging Teaching Tools Visualization allows children to explore and understand their emotions on a deeper level. Encourage them to close their eyes, take deep breaths, and envision a peaceful place where they can manage their emotions. Visualization can help children calm their anxieties and build self-confidence, making it a powerful tool in their emotional well-being toolkit.
When we use evidence-based books to teach emotional well-being (as one example), children can relate and become engaged in the story. Teaching children from a young age to name, recognize, and manage their emotions is proactive. It is never too late! Engaging children with relatable characters, thought-provoking narratives, and follow-up conversations helps them practice the strategies. Educational tools guide our children and youth as they develop these essential skills.
Conclusion
Nurturing our children’s emotional well-being is not just an option; it’s a responsibility we owe to the next generation. By drawing insights from experts like Jon Kabat-Zinn, CASEL, and the Pediatric Society of Canada, we can adopt proactive strategies to help children at home and students in schools thrive emotionally and academically.
Science is clear, and the benefits are undeniable – investing in our children’s emotional well-being today is an investment in a brighter, emotionally resilient future for them. So, whether you’re a parent or an educator, by adopting these proactive strategies, you can empower children to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and empathy, instilling in them the resilience, self-confidence, and problem-solving skills they need for a prosperous future.
Research, including those cited in this article related to children’s emotional well-being
This article was posted on VoiceAmerica’s Blog.
Press Release: Are You Frustrated Daily Because You Can't Connect with a Child Who Is Out of Control or Defiant?
Phoenix, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 08/14/2023 -- Host Lynn McLaughlin is joined by Ginny Luther, who has experienced unimaginable crises in her life. When she was 15 years old, her father took his own life. Tragically, she also lost her son to murder in 2008. She has now authored a book, "Blue Star Grit: A Mother's Journey of Triumph and Tragedy, Raising a Defiant Child into an Exceptional Leader," to help parents see that there is a way!
Through her own experiences and trauma, Ginny Luther helps us see how we can change our approach. Our response at any moment has an impact on a child – they will mirror us. The connection we have with them is the key to effective discipline, and how we respond in those moments with empathy or compassion shows them that we are a safe and secure person.
Control comes with a cost to connection. How we talk to ourselves is how we talk to children, reflecting our inner speech. How many of us are "shoulding" our children, provoking shame and guilt? Peaceful or conscious parenting comes with consequences. We DO NOT give up on our limits. Ginny will help us see how we can be assertive, set boundaries, and be kind yet firm at the same time with very clear and actionable examples.
Phoenix, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 08/14/2023 -- Host Lynn McLaughlin is joined by Ginny Luther, who has experienced unimaginable crises in her life. When she was 15 years old, her father took his own life. Tragically, she also lost her son to murder in 2008. She has now authored a book, "Blue Star Grit: A Mother's Journey of Triumph and Tragedy, Raising a Defiant Child into an Exceptional Leader," to help parents see that there is a way!
Through her own experiences and trauma, Ginny Luther helps us see how we can change our approach. Our response at any moment has an impact on a child – they will mirror us. The connection we have with them is the key to effective discipline, and how we respond in those moments with empathy or compassion shows them that we are a safe and secure person.
Control comes with a cost to connection. How we talk to ourselves is how we talk to children, reflecting our inner speech. How many of us are "shoulding" our children, provoking shame and guilt? Peaceful or conscious parenting comes with consequences. We DO NOT give up on our limits. Ginny will help us see how we can be assertive, set boundaries, and be kind yet firm at the same time with very clear and actionable examples.
https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/145851/peaceful-parenting-setting-boundaries-with-kindness
If you have any questions about the show or would like to advertise your products or services, please contact Dee Daniels, Senior Executive Producer at dee.daniels@voiceamerica.com.
About Ginny Luther
Ginny Luther's extensive knowledge provides creative solutions for the many difficult issues facing schools and families today, giving audiences the tools necessary to succeed.
From 1998 to 2018, Ginny served as a Loving Guidance Associate and a Conscious Discipline® Master Instructor. She has brought the principles of Dr. Becky Bailey's Conscious Discipline to life in schools, early childhood centers, and among parents through mentorship. Ginny has mentored individuals nationally and internationally, guiding them on this transformational journey to unite in building Conscious Discipline communities. In semi-retirement, she maintains her focus on local communities, using her expertise and commitment to empower adult-child relationships. She employs conflict as an opportunity for growth during her enthusiastic workshops. Ginny also serves as an educational consultant, a certified CBT Life Coach, a Parent/Teacher Coach, and a support group leader for school districts, parents, communities, corporate organizations, associations, clubs, and summer camps. Additionally, she is a co-founder of the Bart's Blue Star Foundation, a non-profit that supports funding opportunities for individuals on the front lines working with children to receive Conscious Discipline training and coaching.
Ginny's most recent accomplishment is the release of her book, "Blue Star Grit: A Mother's Journey of Triumph and Tragedy Raising a Defiant Child into an Exceptional Leader," on May 2, 2023.
https://www.peacefulparenting.net/
Visit Ginny at: https://ginnyluther.com
About Lynn McLaughlin
Lynn McLaughlin has served in many roles as an educator… Superintendent, Principal, Vice-Principal, Teacher, and Educational Consultant in a board of over 35,000 students. Lynn's professional speaking experiences have been local, provincial, and international. She is passionate about children's emotional well-being and what we as adults must do to ensure our children have the skills, mindset, and strategies to be successful and happy in today's world.
As a best-selling and award-winning author, Lynn has now teamed up with her niece, Amber Raymond, to co-author a children's book series titled, "The Power of Thought." Both are passionate about being proactive when it comes to children's mental health. They are visiting school communities both virtually and in-person, offering professional development for teachers as well as information evenings for parents and guardians titled, "Heart Matters, Embracing Emotional Health for All."
Lynn has hosted the podcast, Taking the Helm for over three years and is proud to bring the voices of others forward to learn and with and from. Dedicated to community causes, Lynn is a member of 100 Women Who Care Windsor/Essex and is a Rotarian. As a brain tumour survivor, she works tirelessly to support the goals of the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada.
About Taking the Helm
Wednesdays 7 am PST on the Voice America Health and Wellness Channel
Our kids and youth are in crisis. Lynn's current mission is to empower children by helping them discover the essential steppingstones they need to strengthen their emotional well-being. When we cultivate confidence, empathy, responsibility, and self-awareness in children, we equip them with the skills to regulate their emotions in a positive way. Our children deserve to be emotionally healthy as they grow through youth into adulthood. Its in our hands as adults and need to learn and model these behaviors for our children and incorporate them into our own daily lives, imagine the synergy we can create! We have become accustomed to waiting for symptoms before we seek help, both emotionally and physically. It's time to change our way of thinking from reactive to proactive. Let's learn what we need to so kids growing up have skills and strategies to use for life, in this very challenging world.
About VoiceAmerica
VoiceAmerica is the original digital broadcast company for the production and delivery of Live Internet Talk Radio programming and continues to be the industry leader in digital media, marketing, and distribution. We are the pioneers of digital radio programming and have been since 1999. We create and distribute over 500 unique and innovative radio programs for our millions of engaged listeners worldwide. Our network channels distribute live programs daily that reach a growing domestic and international audience who connect through all devices via our mobile, desktop, and tablet VoiceAmerica destinations. Learn more at http://www.voiceamerica.com. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Call us any time to find out how VoiceAmerica can help you reach your audience, (480) 553-5756.
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VoiceAmerica
1-480-553-5741
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Posted Monday, August 14, 2023 at 8:00 AM CDT - Permalink