The ABCs of CBT: Thoughts, Feelings and Behavior

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a proven and practical approach to overcoming emotional and psychological challenges. CBT focuses on the intricate link between our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, offering powerful tools to identify and change unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviors.

Here, we break down the ABCs of CBT:

• A: Activating Events – Discover how external situations or internal thoughts trigger emotional and behavioral responses.
• B: Beliefs – Learn about the crucial role that beliefs and interpretations play in shaping our feelings and actions.
• C: Consequences – Understand the outcomes of our beliefs and how they influence our overall mental well-being.

Whether you're new to CBT or looking to deepen your understanding, this video provides a comprehensive overview that is both accessible and enlightening. Discover how Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can help you unlock a healthier, happier mind.

July 1 price increase

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Train your staff in -house

Parentshop offers convenient and cost-effective in-house training for schools, ensuring all staff receive consistent professional development. Our programs cover a range of topics including managing anxiety, behaviour management, and effective communication. Flexible arrangements allow for training sessions to be conducted via Zoom or in-person. Tailored solutions are available to address specific needs, enhancing staff capabilities and fostering a supportive educational environment. Learn more about their offerings at Parentshop In-House Training.

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New to the bookshop

The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness

Jonathan Haidt investigates the collapse in youth mental health, highlighting the impact of the shift from face-to-face interactions to smartphone usage between 2010 and 2015. This transition, combined with declining childhood freedom and over-supervision, has led to increased mental distress among teenagers.

Haidt argues that the loss of play-based childhood and its replacement with a phone-based lifestyle disrupts development through sleep deprivation, social deprivation, cognitive fragmentation, and addiction. He provides in-depth analyses of the differing impacts on boys and girls and offers practical advice for parents, schools, and governments. Combining ancient wisdom with modern research, this book is both an urgent investigation and a call-to-action.

Helping children develop self-regulation

Helping children develop self-regulation is crucial for their social-emotional growth and behaviour management. One effective approach is through co-regulation. This involves adults actively listening and validating children’s feelings, which helps them feel understood. Modelling calm behaviour during stressful situations also teaches children how to stay composed. Responsive interactions provide consistent support and guidance, fostering a secure environment where children can thrive.

Incorporating practical activities can further enhance self-regulation. Mindfulness practices help children improve focus and manage emotions better. Teaching calming techniques like deep breathing or taking a break allows children to handle stress more effectively. Involving them in problem-solving and decision-making builds their confidence and self-regulation skills.

Creating a supportive environment is equally important. Establish predictable routines to give children a sense of security. Use positive reinforcement to encourage self-regulation, praising their efforts and achievements. Setting realistic expectations according to their developmental stage prevents frustration and helps them succeed.

Children who experience toxic stress may struggle with self-regulation. Providing a stable environment with consistent routines and emotional support can mitigate these effects. Equipping children with coping skills enables them to manage stress and emotions more effectively.

For further reading on improving self-regulation in children, professionals can explore these resources:

1. MindTools: 8 Ways to Improve Self-Regulation
2. Raising Children Network: Self-Regulation in Children & Teenagers
3. Child Mind Institute: Helping Kids with Self-Regulation

By integrating these strategies, professionals can effectively guide parents in supporting their children’s development of self-regulation, leading to improved social-emotional skills and better behaviour management.

For more info on building self-regulation skills enrol now in 1-2-3 Magic® & Emotion Coaching. Click the link below.

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