Episode 28: Emotional Connection: How Understanding Your Feelings Can Transform Parenting with Sheila Redfern

In this enlightening episode, Sheila Redfern joined Bettina for a conversation that delves deep. Sheila is an expert in an approach known as Reflective Parenting. She explains that we often find ourselves caught up in trying to change our child's behavior and forget to check in with ourselves, yet that's where the magic can happen. Sheila introduces the concept of "mentalizing," which is all about reflecting on our own feelings as well as those of our children to create deeper connections. This episode was recorded the same week as the highly talked about Netflix series Adolescence. Sheila and Bettina observe through discussing this series that even the most loving parents can unintentionally slip into 'benign neglect' by not being curious about or engaging with their children's worlds. Sheila has some tried and tested ways to help parents begin to use this approach with their children. Ultimately, Sheila drives home the point that emotional regulation is essential for fostering positive behavioral change. By prioritizing our emotional well-being, we equip ourselves to better support our children on their journeys. Please check out Sheila's latest book "How Do You Hug a Cactus? Reflective Parenting with Teenagers in Mind" published in March 2024