What I Really Want to Hear: A collection of short stories about managing feelings - Paperback

by Faith R. Beck (Illustrator), Brenda S. Levin Lcsw (Author)

***FEELING WORDS HELP CHILDREN COPE. FEELING WORDS CAN BE ANGER'S ANTIDOTE.*** A BOOK FOR KIDS AND GROWN-UPS
Short stories highlighting typical childhood situations offer suggestions for validating children's feelings and the opportunity for communication between parents/caregivers and children. This approach, also known as active listening, can help children cope when they are faced with frustration, anger, sadness, disappointment and worry.

As parents, we want to help our kids feel better quickly; however, oftentimes they just want to be heard. Labeling feelings and using imagination to acknowledge children's emotions will let them know we are listening. Putting feelings into words by reflecting what we think our kids are experiencing is a self-regulating strategy that can de-escalate strong emotions. Helping children work through challenging situations builds connection. This approach promotes trust, emotional intelligence, and self-esteem, which are essential for healthy relationships now and in the future.