#23 Emotional Literacy Develops Empathy, Generosity, and Kindness in Children

Today’s well source is Deborah Farmer Kris. Deborah is a writer, teacher, parent educator, and school administrator. She writes for PBS KIDS, MindShift - an NPR learning blog, and Intrepid Ed News. She is the author of the book, “I Love You All the Time” which helps parents and caregivers communicate the one message children most need to hear: that they are unconditionally loved. Deborah has two kids of her own. As you can imagine they test her theories about child development all the time. She’s passionate about providing nuggets of practical wisdom that helps kids and families thrive.

In this podcast we discuss:

• Building an emotional vocabulary.
• Validating all children's emotions.
• Identifying, normalizing, and navigating emotions.
• Being curious about a child's behavior as a form of communication.
• Recognizing emotional reactions as an opportunity and an invitation to be closer. 
• Using inductive discipline to link behaviors to natural consequences.
• Creating the context for children to express themselves when they are ready.
• Using the listen, limit, listen technique to curb misbehavior.
• Viewing stress as a natural human condition that can be productive.
• Understanding the brain's response to stress.
• Making children feel they are truly loved, welcomed, and appreciated.

We hope today’s conversation has added to your parenting well, and that the information and insights shared will help you in raising happy, healthy humans!  If you are inspired, there are also options to make a donation or become a sponsor on our website, www.penbv.org

It was an honor to have you join us and until next time, Happy Parenting!