School Holidays Survival: Helping Kids Cope with Narcissistic Influence
Episode Overview
School holidays can trigger challenges in children's behavior, especially after experiencing narcissistic abuse. Caroline Strawson provides practical guidance on safeguarding children's well-being and addressing trauma responses. Creating a 'comfort box' for children can help regulate their nervous systems and bring them back to a sense of safety and presence. Engaging the five senses enables children to track their sensations and utilize tangible items to shift their focus. This episode offers valuable insight and actionable strategies for both parents and children, empowering them to navigate through challenges and foster healing.
One of my biggest goals in this is to help you heal yourself so you can go off and help heal your children and our next generation.
Summer holidays can be a mixed bag for parents, especially when dealing with the aftermath of narcissistic abuse. Caroline Strawson, host of 'The Narcissistic Abuse & Trauma Recovery Podcast', dives into this issue with practical advice and empathetic guidance. Caroline knows that school breaks can be a minefield of emotional challenges for children who might spend time with narcissistic individuals. These encounters often lead to increased dysregulation and stress, which can manifest as difficult behavior when the kids return home.
In this episode, Caroline explains why your children might act out and how their nervous systems respond to trauma. She introduces the concept of a 'comfort box'—a simple yet effective tool to help kids calm down by engaging their five senses. This box can include items like a soft toy, a scented candle, or a stress ball, all aimed at bringing them back to a sense of safety and presence. Caroline also discusses how to prepare for these challenging times.
By understanding the root causes of your child's behavior and equipping them with tools to manage their emotions, you can create a more peaceful and supportive environment. Whether it's through structured activities or open conversations, you'll learn strategies to help your children navigate their feelings and foster resilience. This episode is packed with actionable tips and compassionate advice, making it a must-listen for any parent facing the dual challenge of school holidays and narcissistic abuse.
Caroline's insights offer a lifeline, showing you how to turn these stressful periods into opportunities for growth and healing.