The human brain is most malleable during infancy and early childhood. Here are three things you can be doing with your babies to ensure they are getting their mental health needs met.
1. Keep them close to your body so their nervous system can sense your presence and rely less on stress hormones.
2. Rock them and wear them around so they get the movement they need to develop their vestibular senses.
3. Mirror their emotional states so they can see that you are catching what they feel and are with them in it.
Learn how to keep your children safe and empowered against sexual abuse and trauma by watching this powerful video on the importance of having "the talk" with anyone who watches your children, and how it can serve as a warning to predators and empower your children to have the language and tools to prevent and heal from such abuse.
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In this video, learn why it's important to focus on soothing and supporting kids' emotions before trying to teach them, as strong emotions take energy away from the brain's thinking and processing areas, and how you can use co-regulation and language to help them grow once they've calmed down. Remember to "Connect before you correct," as Dr. Karyn Purvis said.
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This video offers guidance on how parents can help their kids learn about conflict resolution through setting boundaries and offering compassion towards both parties, emphasizing the importance of safety and boundaries, effective communication, and moving to repair in conflict situations.
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