Validating Feelings on Valentine’s Day
The time seems to be flying and going at a snail’s pace at the moment. I feel like I have one million things on my to-do list, and as I cross them off one by one, I seem to simultaneously add to it.
We had the opportunity to visit the school my kids will attend next year in Omaha. We explored the library, met people in the office, and even talked about how the lunch line works. I truly believe that preparing our kids—and ourselves—is such a beneficial thing to do.
One night while we were there, we asked our son how he was feeling about all the upcoming changes. He told us he is excited, but also nervous. Normally, I handle the big-feelings conversations, partly because I’m around the kids more during the day, but also because, as you may have gathered—I’m a big-feelings gal. But what struck me as memorable in this moment was my husband's response:
"You know what, buddy? I'm kind of nervous too."
We often talk about validating our children’s emotions, but do you know how powerful it is when you acknowledge that you are feeling the same way they are? My husband, a man who exudes confidence and self-assurance, let our little boy know that he, too, is nervous and excited. This led to a full conversation about what we are all excited about, what we are all nervous about, and so on.
The next time you are having a big-feelings conversation, I encourage you to meet your little one where they are. If you have an example of feeling the same emotions or going through something similar, it might bring them so much comfort to know they aren’t alone. After all, the human experience is meant for connection, and to be connected means we aren’t alone.
I hope you feel connected to someone you love this weekend, whether that’s your family or significant other. Enjoy your Valentine’s Day weekend, and don’t forget to enjoy a good book. Here are the books we are reading in our house these days:
Ella’s favorite – Star in a Jar by Sam Hay and Sarah Massini
Tucker’s pick – Ninjago LEGO Chapter Book
My pick – The Women by Kristin Hannah (I’ve been slow to read for entertainment so far this year) and I am also re-reading Atomic Habits by James Clear.
Don't forget to mark your calendars for:
Saturday, February 17th – Boozy Book Fair at the Sheraton Downtown KC from 4-9 PM
Friday, March 1st – The Adventures of Ella Bella first-ever read-aloud at The Story Collective in St. Joseph, MO at 11 AM
As always, happy reading.
Katie Marie
