3 ways to help tamariki
regulate emotions
A handout to give whÄnau to in turn start a kÅrero around how they can support their tamariki to manage and regulate their big emotions.
Firstly, the science...
Research shows that when parents respond to emotions with empathy and warmth - while still keeping boundaries and expectations clear (and with kindness) - tamariki learn to manage stress better, build stronger relationships, and feel more confident over time. This approach is sometimes called emotion coaching or authoritative parenting and is linked to greater wellbeing and resilience for children (Raising Children Network, 2024; Gottman et al., 1997).
Why is this handout important...
Sometimes when our tamariki have big emotions, it can be tricky for parents to know how to support them. This handout has 3 simple, but powerful ways to support tamariki when emotions are running high. These can be added to school reports or be utilised when you're noticing these challenges at school, so you have something you can 'give' to parents to support them - not just talk about the challenges.
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These resources were created for Manahau in collaboration with Real Parents, a wellbeing organisation led by Anna Mowat. Anna has worked across national initiatives, including Sparklers, New Zealand Institute of Wellbeing & Resilience, and Real Parents is also a Ministry of Education provider of the Incredible Years Parenting and Autism programmes.
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Real Parents specialises in practical, evidence-based support that strengthens whÄnau and school wellbeing - helping tamariki feel calm, confident, and connected.
They also have an international award-winning podcast, Being Real Parents, which you'll find here.
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