Interview with local parent, Tawnya Shaner

Question: How did you like the class?
Answer: My husband and I loved it! We were seeking ways to add calm to our chaos, and it gave us some helpful tools.

Q: What did you learn?
A: One thing my husband pointed out is that anger is a secondary emotion. Often, if you look for what is hidden under the surface, you’ll find sadness, hurt, frustration, etc. If you figure that out, rather than react to the anger, you can help heal the real issue, and the anger will resolve itself.

Q: That’s powerful. How has learning about emotional intelligence changed the way you parent?
A: I learned better ways to diffuse tension. For example, I learned it works best to set clear boundaries, and then if a boundary is broken, follow through with the set consequence. By not lecturing, nagging, or giving a guilt trip, I let the boundary be the enforcer, not me. Instead of wasting precious time and energy on a power struggle, we can more quickly move on and put that energy towards building a stronger relationship.

Q: Awesome. Any parting advice?
A: Many times, parents wish their kids would talk to them. But we often train them to not want to talk to us by immediately jumping in with advice. Instead, listen. Validate. Reword what they said back to them, and they will feel heard. Praise them as they talk through their own solutions. THEN, if you still feel there is something they are missing, ask if you can share something you think might help. By giving them the opportunity to say yes, they are much more willing to listen to your insights/concerns. They will be more likely to take your advice. Most importantly, they will learn by your example and recognize your love.

QUESTIONS, or to VOLUNTEER contact Coordinator, Rachelle Krohn at rachellek@weberhs.org

The Weber CTC Coalition is working to promote healthy youth development, improve youth outcomes, and reduce problem behaviors through community prevention efforts in the Weber County areas. We are stronger together!

WEBER CTC COALITION OFFERS CLASSES to help parents, like this one- Emotional Coaching: The Heart of Parenting. It teaches your children how to handle their emotions effectively and problem solve. It supports kids through life’s up and downs in a way that builds confidence and helps them grow socially, emotionally and intellectually.

Upcoming Emotion Coaching Training

Wednesdays Jan. 20th, 2021 – Feb. 24th, 2021 ON ZOOM
Register (FREE!) by Jan 18th at www.weberhs.net/prevention-youth