Practical Action Steps:

Today, your task is to closely observe your child’s reactions, as well as your own.

If your child is between 3 and 7 years old:

– Observe them when they don’t get what they want.

– Write down three quick notes:

✅ How do you react?

✅ What is your first thought or impulse?

✅ What words do you say to them in that moment?

If your child is between 7 and 12 years old:

– Ask them (with a smile and genuine interest):

“What do you do when you feel like no one understands you?”
or

“Is there anything that makes you angry, but you don’t know why?”

🎲A little game for the two of you:

– Together, come up with a “magic word” to use when either of you needs more patience and calm. Make it fun or sweet – for example, “froggy” or “hug.”

– Write it on a sticky note and put it on the fridge.

Don’t rush to give advice or explain. Just listen carefully and remember: the greatest gift for a child is to be heard.