Page 34 - SilverLakes_Issue 3_2022

TODAY’S CHILD

MINDFUL PARENTING – TEACHING

CHILDREN TO COPE WITH FRUSTRATION

By Nicoleen Davies, Director of Business Development: Life Talk

hings don’t always go according to People act and react based on feelings, but before reacting. This pause brings calm and
plan or how we imagine something we are often not even aware of what those a consciousness that will help you to cope
Tplaying out. As a result, we are often feelings are! Our children observe and and make better decisions.
left feeling disappointed, sad or frustrated. mimic our behaviour, so it is very important
Learning to manage strong emotions is a for you to be aware of how you react. The action of noticing and observing
challenge for everyone. connects the mind and the body. For
Mindfulness example, if you are playing in the garden
Often, we react in the heat of the moment. We have mentioned mindfulness before and can hear birds singing, draw your
Feelings of frustration, irritation, anger or and the concept of “active living”. This can child’s attention to this. Ask them how it
annoyance can flare up at any time and it be of enormous benefit to the whole family. makes them feel or what it sounds like;
is so easy to get lost in the moment – and maybe try to see who can spot the bird first
to give in to these emotions in a less than Mindfulness is basically awareness. In or try to mimic its call.
ideal manner. Temper tantrums, screaming, the moment, slow down, think and focus.
shouting and crying bring on so many Don’t just react. This pause will allow you These skills can be learnt and taught at any
negative emotions, and often you can feel the opportunity to be aware of what age. Here are a few suggestions for the
quite ill afterwards. you are thinking and feeling, whole family:

32 | INTRAMUROS APRIL 2022