12/17/2024
Today, my son messaged me saying that his teacher will not be returning back to school in January. Then, without given me an opportunity to reply back he said that he was sad. Immediately, I called him and to hear him crying on the phone made me feel a certain type of way.
My son LOVES his teacher! To have someone that you see that’s a part of your daily routine leave and not return, cognitively does something to us which affects us emotionally. He cried and cried. I explained to him that it’s okay to cry because she is a M.O.D.E.L. that he looked forward to seeing daily. He will miss her. He really looked forward to going to school.
After talking, we prayed for his teacher and asked God to place someone in his classroom that will be the M.O.D.E.L. that is patient, understanding, passionate, and supportive in cultivating an inclusive environment for ALL learners to thrive in.
He gave me a hug and smiled. Honestly, I know this is challenging for him, but as his M.O.D.E.L., I will continue to do my part and create an atmosphere where he knows I care, I understand, and I am here on this journey with him. I value his feelings and I want him to continue to express himself and not shutdown because he feels like his feeling are not important.
Validating our child’s feelings not only builds trust and connections, but it helps promote emotional regulation which can help them become less overwhelmed.
I am so grateful for this opportunity because it’s a journey for us all to pause and acknowledge our feelings and others. No we are not perfect, but to know that we’re not on this journey alone is a blessing.
💙🧡💜🦋 Question: How do you show your child that you validate his or her feelings? Please share below. We truly appreciate your support. 🎊
