This video series provides caregivers of children and youth with resources for supporting them through difficult emotions and stressors, and for building emotional well-being. The topics explored include:
- Calming techniques
- Acceptance
- Validation
- Active listening
- Distress tolerance
Calming techniques for when you are overwhelmed
When your child is struggling, it is natural for your own nervous system to become stressed too — making it hard to think clearly or respond calmly. Calming the nervous system helps bring you back to balance, and when the body is calm, the mind becomes clearer, your mood steadier, and your ability to support your child much stronger.
See the handout Calming techniques for when you are overwhelmed for more information.
Acceptance: Learning to cope with unwanted circumstances
Acceptance means acknowledging reality exactly as it is — even when it's painful, unwanted or not what we hoped for. It is not resignation or giving up; it is choosing to meet reality with openness, so you can respond in ways that support healing, connection and growth.
See the handout Acceptance: Learning to cope with unwanted circumstances for more information.
Helping your child feel heard and understood: Practicing validation
Validation helps your child feel heard and understood. It can build trust, alleviate frustration and improve their ability to navigate emotional and social situations on their own.
See the handout Helping your child feel heard and understood: Practicing validation for more information.
Communicating with your child: Practicing active listening
Active listening is more than just hearing the words your child says — it means listening to understand their feelings and perspective, rather than listening to respond with your own solutions or opinions.
See the handout Communicating with your child: Practicing active listening for more information.
Helping, not hurting: Supporting your child through stress
Many caregivers want to protect children and youth from distress, while also knowing that challenges are a part of life. With support, those moments can become an act of helping, not hurting.
See the handout Helping, not hurting: Supporting your child through stress for more information.