Your Kids Are Watching: Setting the Emotional Thermostat
Episode Overview
Parents act as emotional thermostats for their children. Children learn behaviours from parents earlier than expected. Breaking maladaptive habits requires self-awareness and accountability. Fathers have a significant influence in modern parenting. Setting a positive example through actions is crucial.
"We are the emotional thermostat in the room."
What drives someone to seek a life without alcohol? In this episode of 'Till The Wheels Fall Off,' Matt and Paige Robinson tackle the heavy yet crucial topic of how parents' behaviours significantly impact their children. Matt shares a gut-wrenching moment during his son's basketball practice that made him realise the profound influence parents have as emotional thermostats in their children's lives.
The episode is a candid exploration of the patterns and habits that kids pick up on, often earlier than expected, and how these can shape their future relationships and coping mechanisms. Matt and Paige don't shy away from discussing the challenges of breaking maladaptive habits inherited from one's upbringing. They stress the importance of self-awareness and accountability, especially for parents who have struggled with addiction.
The couple also dives into the evolving role of fathers, emphasising that dads today have more influence than ever before. With a blend of personal anecdotes and broader societal observations, they offer practical advice on creating a healthier environment for children. The Robinsons remind listeners that children are always watching and learning, not just from what parents say, but from what they do.
They advocate for setting a positive example through actions rather than words, touching on everything from emotional reactions to the ubiquitous presence of phones in family life. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to better understand the intricate dynamics between parent and child, especially in the context of addiction recovery. So, if you're curious about how your actions might be shaping your child's future, this episode offers both eye-opening insights and practical steps to foster a nurturing environment.
What patterns are you passing down to your kids?