SUMMARY - In this episode, we explore relational cognitive skills, the brain-based abilities that shape how children navigate relationships, manage emotions, and respond to others. When these skills are still developing, behaviors can feel deeply personal and even hurtful. This episode offers a powerful reframe: your child’s behavior is not a reflection of their character, but a signal of lagging skills that can be supported and strengthened over time.

TAKEAWAYS:

• Many of the most challenging behaviors are rooted in lagging relational cognitive skills, not defiance or disrespect
• Skills like flexibility, frustration tolerance, perspective-taking, and emotional regulation are brain-based and develop over time
• When these skills are underdeveloped, behaviors can feel personal, hurtful, and scary for parents
• Social awareness and interpersonal skills impact a child’s ability to read cues, understand others, and build relationships
• Cognitive rigidity can make it extremely difficult for kids to shift plans, handle “no,” or consider other perspectives
• Emotional outbursts often reflect difficulty regulating, expressing, and responding to emotions, not intentional misbehavior
• Under stress, a child’s thinking brain can go offline, making these skills temporarily inaccessible
• Shifting from a “won’t” mindset to a “can’t yet” lens can transform how you respond to your child
• Skills can be supported and strengthened over time with the right understanding and approach

RESOURCES:

Brain First Parenting Podcast, Episode 3: Help Your Rigid Thinking Child Become More Flexible

Brain First Parenting Podcast, Episode 8: Help Your Child Break the Perseveration Loop

=======================

If you appreciated this episode, and would like to receive a weekly note from Eileen about the Brain First Parenting journey every Monday, you can subscribe to her free newsletter HERE!

You can also check out all the FREE resources Eileen offers for parents, and learn more about all things Brain First at her website: eileendevine.com

And of course, find and follow Eileen on social media:

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

Pinterest