Encouraging Exploration!
When children feel safe, they are more willing to connect with those around them.
A blanket can turn into a fort, a cardboard box can turn into a spaceship and a handful of rocks can turn into a castle. It seems silly but my kids have taught me that using your imagination can bring so much joy into our lives.
A childhood built on curiosity looks like creativity, sounds like chaos and feels like safety and the freedom to grow. As a mother of a toddler, I have experienced how chaos takes over the day by allowing him to play in the dirt or to make a painting. As a caregiver, you might see that a mess means more time dedicated to cleaning and less time to tackle the “to-do” list.
The circle of security is an idea that focuses on emotional safety. When children feel safe, they are more willing to connect with those around them. When they have a safe place, they are willing to ask for help, reassurance and comfort. Being emotionally available and responsive to our kids allows them to gain the confidence in trying new things and stepping into the real world because they know they are not alone. This also helps to encourage kids to try and understand that failing is a part of the process.
As a caregiver, showing your kids that you are emotionally available can look like offering comfort without rushing to fix something, validating their feelings and simply pausing to listen. Sitting with your child, or kneeling down to their level, can also make them feel seen and heard.
Now, I know as a caregiver, it is much easier said than done. A full plate can include a long work day, many chores, a long list of errands and never ending tabs in our brains. However, as much as a small break to play or to connect with our kids can seem like a hassle or one more thing on our plate, it can actually be beneficial for you too. A pause that brings joy or a pause for a deep breath can help you reset and that allows you to be even more productive afterwards. More importantly, it can build confidence in our kids!
Raising kids also means that we are nurturing thoughtful, emotionally secure humans who feel safe enough to grow, learn and explore!
Resource: Introduction to the Circle of Security
How about you?
Reflection Question
What breathing exercises will you and your keiki practice together?
Example: Teddy Bear Breaths
How to: Instruct keiki to lay on a flat surface then place a stuffed animal on their stomach. They can take deep breaths while trying to move their stuffed animal with their breaths.
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