Children need to know that their feelings do not frighten or annoy you. If sadness or fear is met with irritation, they simply stop bringing it to you — and later, they stop bringing you anything.
Part 01
The lesson
You do not need the right words. 'That sounds hard, tell me more' and a willingness to sit there is enough for most of childhood.
Reflection
Questions to sit with
- 01What will your children say about you when they are forty?
- 02When did your child last see you admit you were wrong?
- 03Is your family managing your moods?
Put it into practice
Action points
- 01Spend 30 uninterrupted minutes with your child today — no phone, their choice of activity.
- 02Ask your child what they think makes a good father. Listen without correcting the answer.