Finding our Voice

We have been working the past few weeks on determining some healthy strategies to share feelings. It was important for us to become aware of coping skills that can be unhealthy (feel good at the moment, but regret them later) versus healthy (which can be helpful and allow us to communicate) strategies. Here are our top three healthy strategies:

1. Take some time to slow down, take a breath and think before you respond. Many girls talked about spending some time alone, thinking or rehearsing the response to share with the other person and making sure to speak only to the person who is upsetting us.
2. Use a journal to write or draw what is upsetting you. Allowing yourself to use the journal as a release, whether it be to draw, use it to inspire you with favorite quotes or share frustrations of the day. A journal can also be a good communication tool between you and a family member to share feelings in a way which may feel more comfortable than face-to-face.
3. Talk to a trusted adult about the situation. Many girls shared the person would be a Mom, Aunt or teacher they would share feelings with. We encouraged the girls to let the adults know if they just need someone to listen, instead of trying to solve the problem. Helping your child brainstorm and discuss the pro's and con's of decision will empower them and strengthen their ability to solve relational conflicts.

We felt the girls have a good understanding of the strategies, our encouragement is not only talk about them, but put the strategies into action in their daily lives.