14/03/2024
If our friend was upset, our instinct would be to offer support. We all need it. Why then do some people think that we should ignore children who are overwhelmed by emotions? We all need co-regulation.
Co-regulation is a term that we use to describe the interaction between a child and another person (not necessarily a parent) where the adult shares their calm when the child is losing it or "dysregulated". We co-regulate by offering a warm, calm response. This response should provide support, coaching and modeling. In this safe place children can then learn to understand and express their feelings in a positive way. Simple to say, not necessarily simple to do. Especially when a child is triggering you and the last thing you feel you can share is calm.
More information on my blog and in my new book "Guidance from The Therapist Parent "
www.thetherapistparent.com and on Amazon
