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In-Person & Virtual Therapy • Independence Missouri

In-Person & Virtual Therapy • Independence MissouriIn-Person & Virtual Therapy • Independence MissouriIn-Person & Virtual Therapy • Independence Missouri

Parenting Resources

Family Support, Parenting Support

Connect, before Correct

Connect, before Correct

Connect, before Correct


Children need to feel like they are loved before they are lectured. They need to know your relationship can withstand hard things. Connect before you correct, through touch or words to let the child know they are safe, they are seen, and they are soothed. There are studies showing that touch signals safety and trust. Basic warm touch calm


Children need to feel like they are loved before they are lectured. They need to know your relationship can withstand hard things. Connect before you correct, through touch or words to let the child know they are safe, they are seen, and they are soothed. There are studies showing that touch signals safety and trust. Basic warm touch calms cardiovascular stress. It activates the body's vagus nerve, which is intimately involved with our compassionate response, and a simple touch can trigger release of oxytocin, aka “the love hormone." As you prioritize the relationship, before the redirection and look for what your child NEEDS, you will increase the likelihood of cooperation. 

Need ideas on how to connect? Click Learn more. 


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Parenting Support; Discipline Help

Curious, Not Furious

Connect, before Correct

Connect, before Correct

Anger makes us feel powerful and like we are DOING something to change our children's behavior.  Anger is rooted in protection and survival against threat.  It is not the fact that our kids are not listening, or refusing to comply with our request that "makes us angry, it is the feelings of inadequacy and powerlessness inside of us that l

Anger makes us feel powerful and like we are DOING something to change our children's behavior.  Anger is rooted in protection and survival against threat.  It is not the fact that our kids are not listening, or refusing to comply with our request that "makes us angry, it is the feelings of inadequacy and powerlessness inside of us that lead to ANGER. Want to show up calm? Then show up curious! Ask questions and try to understand what your child is experiencing. 

Remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting, and what works for one family may not work for another. It's essential to be flexible, adapt to your child's unique needs, and continue learning as you navigate the journey of parenthood. If you find yourself struggling to show up curious, reach out today for support. Or try our mindfulness resources on this page to increase your ability to self-regulate. 


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