@np_natalie: If you wouldn’t do it to your spouse when they were crying, maybe stop doing it to your child. You probably wouldn’t tell your spouse: “Stop crying or I’ll give you something to cry about.” “You’re being ridiculous.” “Go away until you can act normal.” “Why are you crying? It’s not even a big deal.” And hopefully you wouldn’t pull out your phone and record their worst moment because you thought their meltdown was funny. Kids have big emotions because they’re still learning how to regulate them—not because they’re trying to ruin your day. And no, validating feelings doesn’t mean letting your child do whatever they want. You can say: “I know you’re angry. The answer is still no.” “You’re allowed to be upset. You’re not allowed to hit.” “I know this feels really big right now. I’m here.” Connection and boundaries can exist at the same time. Your child doesn’t need you to prevent every hard feeling. They need to know they’re still safe with you while they’re having one. And sometimes I think we expect more emotional regulation from a 4-year-old than we do from the adults raising them. 👀 #npnatalie #parentingtips #gentleparenting #toddlers #emotionalregulation
