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When our kids fall or appear to get hurt, our job is not to hover or to dismiss...it's to tune in to their reaction and then respond in kind...
If they are light and fluffy about it....great! You be too...
If they are scared? Comfort and reassure them....
If they are hurt physically or embarrassed (emotional pain), Comfort them and help them process those strong feelings.
Our kids need us to be attuned and wary of overreacting or under reacting.
A message to all fathers: keep going with your efforts to connect with your children because they desperately need to see what a healthy, connected, caring male looks like, and it will create a secure attachment that fosters resilience.
As parents, we want to protect our children from harm, but threats of violence may not be the best way to do so. Instead, we can be a refuge and a barrier for our children, offering comfort and support in times of need.
Discover why responding attentively to your young children won't make them weak, self-centered and dependent adults, as research shows that emotional attunement and responsiveness from caregivers helps children feel safe and develop better awareness and focus in relationships, whereas ignoring their emotional needs leads to heightened fear states that make it hard for them to learn the nuances of relationships - check out the recommended studies to learn more and trust your instincts for care.