Ep 198: From Big Feelings To Brave Hearts - Tools For Parents And Kids

What if the fastest way to calm is connection, not correction? Lindsay sits down with counselor and art therapist Jacintha “J” Field to explore how families can raise emotionally literate kids using the languages children actually speak: play, pictures, movement, and modeled honesty. J’s story journeys from a childhood of “toughen up” messages to discovering art as a safe pathway for feelings, then transforming that insight into clinical work and a gamified platform that helps 5 to 12-year-olds name and regulate big emotions.

We dig into practical, real-life tools parents can use today. Instead of “How are you feeling?” try drawing faces and letting kids choose their state. Build a calm corner with paper, pillows, and a favorite stuffed animal to “hold” heavy feelings. Turn chores and breath work into games. When a meltdown hits at the worst time, keep the boundary and stay close—play Uno, walk the block, or sit quietly until the body settles. You’ll hear scripts to prevent kids from blaming themselves for adult stress, plus the “friendship circle” method for mapping safe people and shifting relationships with grace.

J also shares why role models unlock buy-in—mention that LeBron meditates and suddenly breath work is cool—and how Happy Souls Kids weaves athletes and artists into short, kid-friendly regulation practices. We talk self-compassion for parents, timing hard talks for bedtime when kids are ready to open up, and celebrating every emotion, not just happy ones. If you’re seeking a calmer home, stronger bonds, and a shared family language for feelings, this conversation offers grounded, doable steps that fit real life. For more on J's work you can find her on IG, Facebook, Youtube, LinkedIn or via her website.

If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs a calmer week, and leave a quick review so more parents can find these tools. What connection-first practice will you try tonight?

Lindsay Miller is a distinguished kids mindfulness coach, mindfulness educator and host of The Stress Nanny Podcast. She is known for her suitcase tricks and playful laugh. When she's not cheering on her daughter or rollerblading on local trails with her husband, you can find her using her 20+ years of child development study and mindfulness certification to dream up new ways to get kids excited about deep breathing. Having been featured on numerous podcasts, platforms and publications, Lindsay’s words of wisdom are high impact and leave a lasting impression wherever she goes.

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