diff --git a/parenting/the-whole-brain-child.md b/parenting/the-whole-brain-child.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..168c524 --- /dev/null +++ b/parenting/the-whole-brain-child.md @@ -0,0 +1,33 @@ +# The Whole Brain Child + +Chaos - Integration - Rigidity + +## Using both sides of the brain + +1. "Connect & Redirect": Respond to emotional reactions in an emotive way + (right brain to right brain)., then switch to a logical solution once the + child is calm. +2. "Name it to tame it": Recount a painful experience in a way that addresses + the emotions that the child felt and shows that there is something to be + learned from the experience. + +## Developing and integrating the upstairs brain + +3. "Engage, don't enrage": Appeal to the upstairs brain: respond to meltdowns + and tantrums by prompting the child to use their upstairs brain. + +4. "Use it or lose it": Exercise decision making & don't rescue children from + the consequences of minor bad decisions. Teach children how to make good + decisions when upset. Prompt children to practice self-understanding. Prompt + children to practice empathy and seek to understand other people. Challenge + children with questions of morality. + +5. "Move it or lose it": Use physical exertion to calm anger or fear. + +## Integrating implicit and explicit memories. + +6. Replay memories. Re-tell stories of traumatic events to reason about what + happened and understand why those events caused feelings of fear, anger etc. + +7. "Remember to remember": Prompt children to recall their experiences e.g. by + asking them to recall select details. Make a game of it.