joshua_terhune's shortcast

Enjoy the roller coaster of emotions called parenting. Featuring Paw Patrol the Musical! #parentinghumor #parents #pawpatrol

#stitch with @Jon | Parenting Educator Totally correct! Play is the best way for children to learn, 2nd is indirect exposure (ie role modeling) and 3rd is direct teaching. #playtherapy #childdevelopment #mentalhealth

How can a parent’s soothing voice seems to calm a fussy baby almost instantly? These moments highlight the incredible bond between parents and babies, and the key role of co-regulation in child development. What is Co-Regulation? Co-regulation is the process by which a caregiver (usually a parent) helps regulate a child’s emotions and behaviors. It involves the parent attuning to the child’s needs and providing comfort, support, and guidance. This dance of interaction between parent and child lays the foundation for emotional regulation and social development. The clips derive from the Strange Situation Experiment. In this study, researchers observe how infants respond to brief separations from their primary caregivers (usually their mothers) and reunions with them. The experiment reveals different attachment styles between infants and their caregivers, ranging from secure attachment to insecure attachment. Infants with secure attachment feel confident in exploring their environment when their caregiver was present, and they seek comfort from their caregiver when distressed. This secure attachment is associated with responsive and sensitive caregiving, emphasizing the importance of co-regulation. On the other hand, infants with insecure attachment display varying degrees of distress when separated from their caregiver and showed different reactions upon reunion. Some avoid their caregiver altogether, while others display clingy behavior. These attachment patterns reflected a lack of consistent and sensitive caregiving, highlighting the significance of co-regulation in forming secure attachments. The Role of Voice and Body Language But how do parents effectively co-regulate with their babies? One essential aspect is being mindful of their voice and body language. Babies are highly attuned to these cues and can pick up on subtle changes in tone, facial expressions, and body movements. For instance, when a parent speaks to their baby in a gentle and soothing tone, it can have a calming effect, reassuring the baby that they are safe and loved. Conversely, a harsh tone or tense body language may signal danger or distress to the baby, leading to increased agitation or fear. Moreover, parents can use nonverbal cues such as eye contact, smiling, and gentle touch to communicate warmth and security to their baby. These positive interactions foster a sense of trust and connection between parent and child, laying the groundwork for healthy emotional development. Tips for Co-Regulating with Your Baby Here are some practical tips for parents to promote co-regulation with their babies: 1. Be Responsive: Pay attention to your baby’s cues and respond promptly to their needs, whether it’s hunger, tiredness, or discomfort. 2. Use a Gentle Tone: Speak to your baby in a calm and soothing voice, especially during moments of distress. Your tone can help regulate their emotions and provide comfort. 3. Maintain Eye Contact: Establishing eye contact with your baby helps strengthen the bond between you and promotes feelings of security and connection. 4. Practice Positive Touch: Hold, cuddle, and gently stroke your baby to convey love and reassurance. Physical contact is a powerful way to regulate your baby’s emotions and promote attachment. 5. Stay Calm: Babies can sense when their caregivers are stressed or anxious. Take deep breaths and stay composed, even during challenging moments. Your calm demeanor can help reassure your baby and promote emotional regulation. In conclusion, co-regulation plays a crucial role in parent-child relationships and child development. By attuning to their baby’s needs and being mindful of their voice and body language, parents can create a nurturing environment that fosters emotional security and healthy attachment. Remember, every interaction with your baby is an opportunity to strengthen your bond and lay the foundation for a lifetime of emotional well-being. #parenting #newparents #attachment #attachmentstyle

When does your child feel loved by you? Answered by a child therapist #therapy #therapytiktok #playtherapy #parenting