Raising Emotionally Healthy Children Starts with Us - Their Parents

Raising emotionally healthy children starts with us - their parents.

When did you last catch yourself saying something like, "Because I said so!" in a moment with your child? Deep down, I’m sure you knew this wasn’t building a strong parent-child relationship.

I have made these mistakes myself. <blushing with embarrassment> I’ve threatened, removed privileges, taken the authoritative stand, and even tried sarcasm! Each time I felt that dread rise within me, I knew breaking generational patterns had to become a priority. I went in search of a better way to forge a strong parent-child relationship and ended up as a Conscious Parent & Life Coach.

Don’t get me wrong. The certification doesn’t make me the perfect parent. On the contrary, it has shown me my imperfections and awakened me to my triggers. It reminds me to parent myself before my child!

A less awakened version of myself would have said, "If I’d known better." But now, on this self-growth journey, I say, "I’m here now, I know better, and I’ll be better each day."

The Power of Words

It still surprises me how changing a single phrase can shift the entire parent-child dynamic. Even a slight tweak allows children to build confidence, strengthens their inner voice, and opens the door to honest conversations.

My approach now is simple: aim for a little better than the day before. Real change happens quietly, in the small steps we take each day—no pressure for perfection, no need for dramatic change.

I hope these parenting tips support you in your growth as a parent.

Simple Shifts That Transform (And Actually Work): Some Phrase Swaps

Instead of: "Because I said so."

Try: "I know you don't like this decision. I'll explain, and then we're moving forward."

Instead of: "If you don't listen, you'll lose screen time."

Try: "When you're ready to pick up your toys, we can watch your favourite show." (I should use this more on myself 😜)

Instead of: "Stop crying. It's no big deal!" "What's the drama about?!"

Try: "I see you're really upset. Tell me what's happening." or "How can I help?"

Instead of: "How many times do I have to tell you?"

Try: "I've asked about this a few times. Help me understand what's making this hard for you."

Instead of: "You should know better than that."

Try: "Something's getting in the way of your best self right now. Let's talk about it."

I know these might sound 'fluffy' or too gentle to some, but I’ve seen them work. I’ve witnessed how they can turn relationships around and build empowered children who feel better about talking to their parents instead of feeling ridiculed.

Understanding Emotional Regulation

We often use words like empowered, emotional regulation, and resilience. But children don’t know how to become those things or do them if they aren’t shown the ropes. It’s our job to guide them through this emotional landscape.

Emotional regulation is not just a skill; it’s a journey. As parents, we must model this behavior. When we express our feelings and handle our emotions, we teach our children to do the same. This creates a safe space for them to explore their feelings without fear of judgment.

The Importance of Connection

Building a connection with our children is vital. It’s not just about discipline or rules; it’s about understanding and empathy. When we connect with our kids on an emotional level, we foster trust. Trust leads to open communication, which is essential for healthy relationships.

Take the time to listen to your child. Ask open-ended questions and give them the space to express themselves. This not only helps them articulate their feelings but also strengthens your bond.

Celebrating Small Wins

If you’ve found one 𝘱𝘩𝘳𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘴𝘸𝘢𝘱 that changed the way you connect with your child, share it below or send me a note—these small wins deserve celebrating. Every step forward is a victory, no matter how small.

Seeking Support

Are you feeling overwhelmed? Tired of frustration? Exhausted from trying to get it right? Balancing life, work, and parenthood can be challenging. If you need support, book a complimentary 30-minute call. Let’s navigate this journey together.

In conclusion, parenting is a continuous journey of growth and learning. By making simple shifts in our language and approach, we can create a nurturing environment for our children. Let’s embrace this journey together, one small step at a time.