The idea that punishment leads to learning has long been a cultural icon of our justice systems worldwide. To question it almost seems absurd. Yet for those of us with experience as foster parents, or have adopted children, we know that this is imperative for healing children with trauma histories.
“Emotional regression is a signal of being overwhelmed. It’s ok. This is normal. This is an opportunity to soothe an internal infant or toddler state that may not have been soothed in the past. Activate your X-ray vision and look for the inner toddler. It’s a precious opportunity for growth when we can relieve this distressed state. Soothing is always based on what the child can tolerate.” — Kristi Saul
We parents in our struggles often forget that once the principles are fully alive in us, the how-to and the what to do, take on a life of its own as it comes to us in an up-welling of inspiration.
These stories, your stories, are important because they show the principle of love in its intended environment—your home and your life. So break the mold of your outdated parenting patterns and try something new—and fun for a change.
