As parents and caregivers, we want to protect our children from the hardships of life. But what if instead of shielding them, we equipped them with the tools they need to face their challenges head on? Imagine a world where your child doesn’t just survive the storm but learns how to dance in the rain, building resilience that lasts a lifetime.
This is where ACT, better known as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy , comes in. Think of it as your child’s emotional compass- a guide that helps them navigate their feelings, stay grounded in the present and make choices that align with what matters most to them.
What is ACT?
ACT is an approach to therapy that teaches children to accept what’s out of their control while taking committed action towards things that are in their control- especially things that matter to them. And her’s the magic: ACT doesn’t ask your child to deny or suppress their emotions. It helps them develop a sense of psychological flexibility- the ability to feel big feelings without letting those feelings take the wheel. It’s like teaching them to sail their ship, regardless of how choppy the waters get.
Here’s how it works: ACT uses mindfulness, acceptance, and values-based action to empower children. Rather than trying to “fix” or eliminate difficult thoughts and emotions, your child will learn to accept them, defuse their power, and focus on what really matters- living a meaningful life.
Building Resilience and Emotional Intelligence
Let’s face it- young people are facing challenges that can feel like mountain. From social pressures to academic demands, it’s easy for them to feel overwhelmed. But with ACT, they don’t have to conquer the mountain all at once. Instead, they’ll learn to accept that the mountain is there, adjust their perspective, and take one value-driven step at a time.
ACT helps your child:
- Build emotional awareness- They learn to notice their feelings without judgment.
- Develop resilience- Instead of getting stuck in difficult emotions, they learn to move forward even when things are hard.
- Align their actions with their values– Whether it’s being a good friend, achieving goals in school or just showing kindness, ACT helps kids take meaningful steps that align with their core values.
How ACT Works for Your Child
Think of it like this: your child’s mind is a busy playground, filled with thoughts, feelings, and challenges that sometimes seems like the monkey bars are swinging too fast. ACT teaches them how to slow down and focus on what they can control. It doesn’t teach them to ignore their emotions, but rather to accept them and take action in a way that reflects who they want to be.
Your child will learn to:
- Accept feelings without judgment- Whether it’s frustration, sadness, or fear, ACT helps them acknowledge these feelings without letting them run the show.
- Mindfully respond- Instead of reacting impulsively, your child will learn to pause and reflect before making choices.
- Commit to values-based actions- By focusing on what’s most important to them, your child can begin to take steps toward a meaningful and fulfilling life, one action at a time.
Why ACT Matters Now More Than Ever
In today’s world, emotional resilience is more than a skill- it’s a superpower. Life’s not getting any easier, but that doesn’t mean your child has to be overwhelmed by it. With ACT, they’ll learn that they don’t have to control every storm that comes their way. Instead, they’ll gain the confidence to sail through it, knowing they have the tools to stay grounded, even when the waves get rough.
So, ask yourself: What if the greatest gift you could give your child is the ability to handle life’s ups and downs with resilience and grace? What if, instead of trying to clear the path of obstacles, you could help them walk it with confidence?
Third Wave Psychotherapy is here to help you do just that.
Let’s work together to build the foundation your child needs- not just to survive, but to thrive.
References:
Black, T.D. (2022). ACT for treating children: The essential guide to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Kids. Context Press.
Coyne, L.W. & Murrell, A.R. (2009). The joy of parenting: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy guide to effective parenting in the early years. New Harbinger Publications.
Swain, J., Hancock, K., Hainsworth, C., & Bowman, J. (2013). Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in the treatment of anxiety: A systematic review. Clinical Psychology Review, 33(8), 965-978. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpr.2013.07.002
Waite, P., Codd, J., & Creswell, C. (2018). Effective cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety disorders in children and adolescents: Does treatment outcome inform theory? Behavioral and Cognitive Psychotherapy, 46(5), 626-641. https://doi.org/10.1017/S1352465818000327