Creating Calm: How Tapping Transforms Strong-Willed and Neurodivergent Kids
In the journey of parenting, few challenges compare to raising strong-willed and neurodivergent children. These amazing kids bring so much joy and uniqueness into our lives, but they also require a lot more guidance in navigating their emotions and reactions. I feel the highs are higher but the lows are lower.
One powerful tool that can help them achieve emotional balance is Tapping, also known as Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT).
What is Tapping (EFT) and Why is it Important for Kids?
Tapping is a simple yet effective technique that involves gently tapping on specific points on the body while focusing on negative emotions or physical sensations. This method, which combines elements of ancient Chinese acupressure and modern psychology, can help release emotional distress and bring about a sense of calm.
For strong-willed and neurodivergent children, Tapping offers a way to manage their emotions independently and effectively. It empowers them to regulate their own feelings, providing a sense of control and reducing episodes of frustration or overwhelm.
Why Tapping Works for Strong-Willed and Neurodivergent Children
Children with strong wills and neurodivergent traits often experience heightened sensitivity to their environment and emotions. They might find it challenging to express themselves verbally or manage their reactions to sensory inputs. Tapping can be a valuable tool for these children due to several reasons:
1. Reduces Emotional Overload
Tapping helps to lower stress hormones like cortisol, which can calm the nervous system and reduce emotional overload. This is particularly beneficial for neurodivergent children who may experience intense emotional reactions.
2. Empowers Self-Regulation
By teaching children how to use Tapping, you’re giving them a tool they can use anytime, anywhere. This independence is crucial for strong-willed kids who thrive on being in control of their own experiences.
3. Enhances Focus and Calm
Tapping can help improve focus and reduce anxiety, making it easier for children to engage in daily activities and learning experiences without feeling overwhelmed.
How to Introduce Tapping to Your Child
Introducing Tapping to your child can be a fun and empowering experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started:
1. Make It Fun and Accessible
Use a playful approach to make Tapping engaging. You can introduce it as a “magic tapping tool” that helps them feel better when they’re upset or stressed.
2. Start with a Simple Explanation
Explain to your child that Tapping involves gently tapping on certain points on the body while thinking about what’s bothering them. Keep it simple and positive. For example, you might say, “Tapping helps us calm down when we feel angry or sad.”
3. Demonstrate the Tapping Points
Show your child the basic tapping points: the side of the hand, top of the head, eyebrows, side of the eyes, under the eyes, under the nose, on the chin, collarbone, and under the arms. You can tap on yourself first to demonstrate and then guide them to follow along.
4. Create a Setup Phrase
Help your child create a simple setup phrase that acknowledges their feelings. For example, “Even though I feel upset, I’m a good kid and it’s okay to feel this way.” This phrase helps them recognize their emotions and affirm their self-worth.
5. Practice Together
Spend a few minutes each day practicing Tapping together. You can make it part of your bedtime routine or a morning ritual to start the day with calm and focus.
6. Encourage Use in the Moment
Teach your child to use Tapping whenever they start to feel overwhelmed or frustrated. Encourage them to take a moment to tap and calm down before reacting.
7. Be An Example
If you yourself are tapping ( see my blog on tapping for mums ) then your child will see you leading by example.
Real-Life Examples of Tapping in Action
To give you a better idea of how Tapping can help, here are some real-life examples of children using Tapping to manage their emotions:
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Managing Meltdowns: Sarah, a seven-year-old with autism, used to have frequent meltdowns when her routine changed. After learning Tapping, she now taps on her favorite points whenever she feels a meltdown coming on, which helps her calm down and adapt to changes more smoothly.
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Dealing with Anxiety: Jake, a nine-year-old with ADHD, struggled with anxiety about going to school. His parents taught him Tapping, and now he uses it every morning to ease his nerves, helping him start his day with more confidence and less fear.
Tips for Success with Tapping
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Be Patient and Consistent: Like any new skill, Tapping takes practice. Encourage your child to use it regularly and be patient as they learn to incorporate it into their routine.
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Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge your child’s efforts and progress with Tapping. Celebrate the small victories, like calming down after a stressful situation or using Tapping to focus better on homework.
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Create a Supportive Environment: Make sure your child feels supported and safe when practicing Tapping. Encourage them to talk about their feelings and experiences with it.
Tapping is a powerful tool that can help strong-willed and neurodivergent children manage their emotions and navigate their world with greater ease. By introducing your child to Tapping, you’re providing them with a skill that they can use throughout their lives to maintain emotional balance and resilience.
Start exploring the benefits of Tapping with your child today and watch them unlock a calmer, more empowered version of themselves. With a little practice, Tapping can become their go-to technique for handling the ups and downs of daily life.
Journal Prompts for Parents
- How do I currently help my child manage their emotions?
- What are some specific situations where my child could benefit from using Tapping?
- How can I create a supportive environment for my child to practice Tapping?
By reflecting on these prompts, you can start to see how Tapping can fit into your family’s routine and support your child’s emotional well-being.
