Tapping into emotional regulation

Tapping, also known as Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) is a technique that forms the basis of one of our tools Flex-it! Tapping has a profound effect on the central nervous system, the production of stress hormones, DNA regulation, and brain activation. This technique is part of a new wave of therapies that combine mind and body approaches, making it a popular choice for quick emotional shifts. According to Dr. Peta Stapleton, "A decade-long research program at Harvard Medical School found that certain points almost instantly decrease the activation of the stress response in the brain." We note in our one to one practise that tapping can really help children to reduce the intensity of big feelings, allowing them to process them and move through them.

Teachers using our tools observe that tapping helps children regulate their emotions, becoming calmer and more focused in the classroom. If you're interested in trying tapping at home, consider combining it with conversation, especially during bedtime when children often share their worries. The tapping points are shown in the picture attached. Simply tap gently 5-7 on each point. Tap on these points whilst allowing your child to talk.

Here’s how to start:

1. Listen to Your Child: Encourage your child to share their thoughts. Resist the urge to fix or change their story. Simply listen while tapping on the points illustrated in the picture.
2. Observe Changes: Notice if the story changes as you tap, which is known as a cognitive shift. As feelings about a situation decrease, thoughts about it may change.
3. Look for Signs of Relaxation: Children may become sleepy and start yawning as energy in the body shifts.
4. Encourage Problem-Solving: When given space to talk, children often find their own solutions as the intensity of their feelings reduces with the tapping.
5. Watch Problems Dissipate: As feelings decrease, problems may simply disappear instead of escalating.

 We'd love to hear your feedback on what you observe. By bearing witness to your child's story without changing it, you help reduce their cortisol levels. As they talk through their feelings and you tap, these feelings reduce.

Whether at home or in the classroom, EFT or tapping is fast becoming a go-to method for many parents and teachers. Not only is it fast and effective, but it's also portable and empowers children to take control of their own emotional regulation.

For further information please listen here to our conversation with Dr Olivia Kessel Ep 35 and Bitesize Ep 75

E&L