In this podcast, Kessonga and Sam discuss mindful caregiving and the challenges of parenting teens. They emphasize the importance of mindful communication, nonviolent communication (NVC), and patience. They also explore effective strategies for connecting with step children through empathy, art, nature, and music. Additionally, they express gratitude, encourage listener questions, and promote the talk show 'Their Headspace'.
Read more
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
auto_awesome
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
Mindful communication involves acknowledging and empathizing with children's emotions before problem-solving.
Connecting with children on a human level and understanding their unique communication styles helps establish a deeper connection.
Deep dives
The Importance of Mindful Communication with Kids
Mindful communication is crucial when interacting with children. Kids may have big emotions, and it's important to give them time and space to process these emotions. Before problem-solving, it is necessary to acknowledge and empathize with their emotions. Additionally, using nonviolent communication (NVC) can be effective. NVC encourages being specific about the event that caused an emotion, without judgment. By identifying needs behind the emotions, parents can transform their relationship with emotions, seeing them as visitors rather than burdens.
Connecting on a Human Level and Understanding Individual Communication Styles
Connecting with children on a human level and understanding their unique communication styles is crucial. Taking the time to empathize with their experiences and interests helps establish a deeper connection. Strategies such as engaging in art, going out in nature, or utilizing music can create an environment for open and meaningful communication. Recognizing and paying attention to a child's preferred mode of expression can help facilitate conversation and understanding.
Today, Sam joins Kessonga to talk about mindful caregiving, as they discuss the ups and downs of parenting teens.
Kessonga holds a Masters degree in Social Work, and is a Certified Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Teacher. He also serves as an adjunct Mindfulness instructor at UNC Chapel Hill School of Medicine. Prior to joining Headspace he had his own private practice as a licensed acupuncturist and an outpatient psychotherapist. You can reach out on Instagram here!
Sam has taught mindfulness and social emotional learning to teens, families and adults all over the world for more than 12 years. She obtained her master’s degrees in clinical and educational psychology from Columbia University, and an M.S. in emotion science from Mid-Sweden University. You can reach out to Sam on Instagram here!