As a parent, your to-do list is likely never-ending. Between doctor appointments, soccer practice, and making sure everyone has clean socks, it’s easy to feel like the day is just one long transition from one task to the next.
HealthyChildren.org - From the American Academy of Pediatrics Pediatrics
Based on the work of the late neuroscientist Jaak Panksepp, PhD , the "9-Minute Theory" suggests that a child's day is anchored by three critical windows of time. These moments are when children are most vulnerable, most receptive, and most in need of connection with their parents. As a parent, your to-do list is likely never-ending
This is often the time when children feel most comfortable sharing their "big feelings." Use the minutes before they fall asleep to listen, offer reassurance, and let them know they are safe and loved. Why Connection Matters These moments are when children are most vulnerable,
If you’re navigating the "terrible twos" (or threes!), remember the : aim for 80% of your interactions to be positive or neutral, leaving only 20% for discipline or setting boundaries. Combining this with the 9-minute theory can make those challenging years feel a lot more manageable for everyone.
