1.
If you are anything like me, you don't mind discussing the world with your children, UNTIL they start circling you with a WHY TORNADO.
Child: Why?
Parent: Answer.
Child: Why?
Parent: Answer
Child: Why?
Parent: 😫
This tornado habit usually happens only for a short period during a child's development (typically when they are between 2.5-4.5 years old), but it can feel overwhelming as a parent and frustrating and lead you to shutting your child down or responding with annoyance to their curiosity.
They seem to have an endless WHY question and you do not have an endless amount of patience for it.
Here is a magical connection focused re-direct...turn it into a time of imagination. Instead of focusing on giving them an answer, focus on teaching them how to wonder about something and theorize about it and tolerate the unknown and uncertainty of something they are curious about.
They will feel connected and you will feel the tornado die down. Two very good things.
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.
Discover why natural consequences are great teachers for children, especially those with neurodivergent conditions like ADHD and Autism, and why guiding and teaching instead of punishing and preaching is a more effective approach to helping your child learn to listen to and trust their bodies, in this enlightening video on interoception and attachment.
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.