Want to help your son manage his big emotions? 

It starts with you. Researchers have found that– because of something in our brains called mirror neurons– the emotions we display cause our children to feel those emotions, too. As New York Times writer Ashley Abramson put it, “The same part of your brain that lights up when you’re feeling happy may also light up when you observe happiness in others.”

So the next time your son is feeling angry, overwhelmed, or frustrated, instead of focusing on his own emotions, check yourself first. Say a prayer, adjust your body language and expression, and ask God to help you be calm and at peace. Simply observing that peace in you may help your son learn how to calm down, too. 

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.