Child Quote by Mary Sheedy Kurcinka
““Children learn best from the adults they love. They watch carefully to see how you handle your strong emotions. Most of us, however, have not been taught to enjoy the richness intensity adds to our lives; nor have we been instructed in the safety measures needed to use it appropriately. To help our children understand and manage their intense emotions, we have to feel comfortable with our own. DEALING WITH YOUR OWN INTENSITY The intensity of spirited kids sizzles and snaps. It can burn you to the core. You breathe deeply trying your best to block the blows. At first, like drops on a rainproof jacket they roll off. But the torrent grows heavier, the drops more penetrating, roaring in your ear, and piercing your composure until you may find yourself also in the red zone screaming, threatening and slamming doors.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Raising Emotionally Intelligent Children, 2015
Children mimic adult emotional handling; adults must model healthy intensity and teach regulation.
In simple terms: Kids learn by watching adult emotions.
Model and teach emotional intensity wisely.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- family discussions
- school programs
- therapy sessions
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you become comfortable with your emotions?
- What strategies help teach kids to manage intensity?
Adults may struggle with their own intensity.