Are you struggling to help your child through their emotional challenges?

Here are 3 ways to support them and promote emotional growth:

1.        Teaching your child coping skills is something that will benefit them for the rest of their lives! Whether it’s conflicts with friends, pre-teen drama, relationship challenges, or struggles in sports, coping skills help them manage both their emotions and the stress from those situations. Some great ones for kids and teens include practicing positive self-talk, getting regular exercise, and using deep breathing techniques. To read more about coping skills, check out this article on Parents.com.

2.       I know that with all your own stress and challenges, it can be tough to model emotional regulation. But these moments can actually be the best opportunities to show your child what it looks like. By letting them know that you're dealing with your own stress, but still showing how to stay emotionally regulated, you're teaching them how to manage and express their emotions in a healthy way. You're also sending the important message that we're all human, and that's okay. If emotional regulation is new to you, you can learn more about it here.

3.        Creating a safe space for open, non-judgmental conversations is so important. When your child knows they can talk to you without fear of being criticized or judged, they’ll be more likely to share what’s really going on in their world. This helps them feel heard and understood, which not only strengthens your relationship but also gives them the emotional support they need to navigate difficult situations with confidence.

Parenting through tough moments isn’t easy, but you don’t have to do it perfectly to make a big impact. By teaching your child healthy coping skills, modeling emotional regulation, and creating a safe, supportive space for open conversations, you’re giving them tools they’ll carry with them for life. Your presence, patience, and willingness to walk beside them through the hard times can make all the difference.

If you’re here reading this, you’ve already taken a step toward supporting your child—and that says a lot. I know firsthand how parenting can stretch you in ways you never expected—if you ever want to talk it through, I’d be happy to help.