In our latest podcast episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Jamie Lynn Tatera, an expert in self-compassion for children, parents, and families. We dive deep into what it takes to nurture self-compassion in our kids and ourselves—so that it becomes second nature. Jamie shares her best insights from teaching parent-child self-compassion courses, working directly with children, and creating her new, play-based self-compassion activity books.
🔍 In This Episode, Discover:
Modeling Self-Compassion as a Parent:
Jamie emphasizes the importance of starting self-compassion practices with ourselves so we can effectively model it for our children. By sharing our own struggles openly and showing our self-compassion practices in everyday moments, we set a powerful example for kids to follow. 🌟
The Feelings Habit Animal Quiz:
Learn about Jamie’s Feelings Habit Animal Quiz, a tool to help identify your child’s unique way of managing emotions. Each child approaches their emotions differently, so discovering if they are more like a deer (who feels shame), a chameleon (who hides emotions), or one of Jamie’s other “animals” can help tailor self-compassion practices for your child. 🦒
Incorporating Self-Compassion Through Play:
Jamie shares how to use play, including her own adorable “resilience habit animals,” to bring compassion to life in a way that feels safe and engaging for kids. This helps them internalize key self-compassion skills like mindfulness, kindness, and recognizing common humanity. 🧸
💡 Key Takeaways for Parents:
➡️ Role-Model Self-Compassion: Start with your own self-compassion practices and narrate them in daily life. For example, if you’re feeling stressed, share how you’re giving yourself kindness and a bit of patience.
➡️ Honor Your Child’s Unique Approach to Emotions: If your child is reserved or strong-willed, approach self-compassion in a way that resonates with them. Jamie shares strategies to adapt our approach based on kids’ natural tendencies, so they feel more at ease and connected.
➡️ Play as a Teaching Tool: Kids learn best through play, so Jamie uses animal characters like “Buddy” (for common humanity) and “Spot” (for mindfulness) to introduce concepts of self-compassion in a fun and non-intimidating way.
➡️ Building Emotional Resilience Step-by-Step: Jamie emphasizes the importance of going slowly and meeting kids where they are, helping them gently develop a deeper understanding of their emotions. Building this foundation of self-compassion sets them up to better handle difficult moments in life.
If you’re looking to support your child’s emotional resilience and create a more compassionate home environment, this episode with Jamie Lynn Tatera is filled with practical, playful, and powerful advice for parents and kids alike.
Want to start teaching your child self-compassion?
Get your hands on Jamie’s brand new Workbook: Mindfulness and Self-Compassion Workbook for Kids, Volume 1: 40+ Fun Activities & Comics to Learn to Self-Regulate, Find Peace, and Be Kind to ... (Research-Based Resilience Skills for Kids)
To learn more about Jamie Lynn Tatera:
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32. Teaching Self-Compassion to Kids