I see you, Mama, and my heart goes out to you, as you rush through the store with your little one who is having a major meltdown. Been there! Perhaps, like me, you’ve heard all the well-meaning parenting advice about how children’s emotions are normal and how they need our understanding.
But then what? What can you do when your little cutie performs an Oscar-worthy temper tantrum in the middle of the dairy section? How do you deal with your own emotions, let alone your child’s, when the pressure is on?
Here’s the answer you've been waiting for: Tapping. It's your new game-changer, giving both you and your kiddo the superpower to ride out emotional rollercoasters. Plus a bonus! She will be building a growth mindset at the same time. How is this possible? Read on.
1. Social Emotional Activities for Preschoolers can also Build a Growth Mindset
This practice, also known as Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), involves repeatedly tapping on specific meridian points on the body. You’ll be amazed at how well this helps children to self-soothe when they’re feeling overwhelmed, confused or just plain cranky.
With this strategy, children find calm within themselves, rather than expecting someone else to make them feel better. Social emotional activities for preschoolers include practices that help children understand and manage their emotions. When your child learn that he possess the tools to manage his emotions, he begins to believe in his ability to handle life's challenges—a crucial aspect of developing a growth mindset.
2. The Solution: Daily Practice
Get this POSTER. Print several copies. Hang it in places that are restful.
Routinely guide your child through the "My Little Tapping Practice" poster together at calm times, so when the going gets tough, the steps are memorized. Consistent practice during these peaceful moments helps your little one internalize the technique, ensuring that she can easily recall the steps when faced with challenging emotions.
By keeping the poster visible, you provide an ongoing reminder that your child holds the power to manage her feelings, instilling confidence in her ability to handle life's emotional rollercoasters.
3. The Role of Modeling
When a stressful situation arises, start the tapping technique on yourself. Yes, right there in the middle of the checkout line. Your child will see that you are working hard to stay calm, and she will be reminded that she can, too. Regardless of how she reacts at that moment, you are setting the example in a very obvious manner.
When parents or caregivers model the use of EFT Tapping during stressful situations, they not only demonstrate its effectiveness but also instill the idea that emotional management is a skill worth acquiring. This normalization of emotional struggles and the proactive approach to handling them can help children develop a sense of confidence and resilience in the face of adversity.
4. Make Progress over Time
These 4 easy-to-remember steps are great for little ones just learning. As children grow and mature, so do their emotional needs and coping mechanisms. As your child grows, seek out mindfulness resources and introduce more advanced EFT points. There are many meditation practices tailored to every child's age.
Does your child need more ways to self-soothe? Check out the eBook “Learning to Calm” here at My Little Growing Mindset. This children’s book includes 3 short stories to show your child that big emotions are normal, and that managing those feelings is possible. Read during peaceful times so you can discuss and practice the strategies in the stories.
Charlotte is is only 2 years old, and is already learning how her cuddly blanket and soft music help her to feel better. Isaiah practices big breaths by pretending to blow bubbles. Tapping helps 3-year-old Maya while she is waiting in line at the amusement park. Your little one will learn that everyone has these strong emotions, and that working hard to manage them is possible at any age.
5. The Result: Confidence and Resilience
By continually nurturing these emotional tools, your child can learn to manage his own emotions effectively throughout life. This reinforces the growth mindset qualities of resilience and continuous self-improvement. When he realizes that he can influence his emotional state and reactions, he gains confidence to face challenges head-on with determination and a positive outlook. Now that’s a show-stopper.
So, next time your toddler or preschooler decides to steal the show at big sister’s dance recital, remember, you've got tapping on your side, and together, you're an unbeatable dynamic duo!
