Modelling Compassion at Home

How parents can foster compassionate self-relating in children.

CFT helps people who are highly self-critical develop self-compassion.

Why compassion matters

Self-criticism activates the threat system, making anxiety and depression worse. Compassion activates the soothing system, which helps regulate difficult emotions.

How to help

Model self-compassion yourself
Avoid critical responses to your child's struggles
Encourage "compassionate self-talk"
Practice compassionate breathing together