Why I Love Robyn Gobbel’s New Book So Much !

By Molly Rush

Are you struggling to understand and manage your child's challenging behaviors? If so, "Raising Kids with Big Baffling Behaviors" by Robyn Gobbel is a must-read. This insightful book not only helps you grasp the science behind these behaviors but also provides practical strategies to strengthen your bond with your child.

Robyn Gobbel, a skilled therapist specializing in children's mental health, takes us on a journey into the fascinating world of brain states and their impact on behavior. She breaks down complex concepts in a way that is refreshingly clear and relatable, making neuroscience accessible to parents of all backgrounds. Through engaging anecdotes and easy-to-follow explanations, Gobbel shows how these brain states influence our interactions with our children. Learn more about Robyn Gobbel here!

What sets this book apart is Gobbel's emphasis on fostering connection through understanding. She goes beyond mere behavioral management techniques to explore how parents can effectively shift the parent-child dynamic towards mutual understanding and empathy. Her approach is not just about correcting behaviors but about building a strong, supportive relationship that nurtures both child and parent.

Key Concepts in the Book

1. Behavior as Communication:

    Gobbel emphasizes that all behavior is a form of communication. When children act out, they are often trying to express something they cannot articulate with words. This perspective shifts the focus from punishing or correcting the behavior to understanding and addressing the root cause, a fundamental principle in play therapy.

2. The Power of Connection:

   A strong, healthy connection between parent and child is foundational. Gobbel offers practical advice on how to build and maintain this connection, even in the face of challenging behaviors. She underscores the importance of empathy, active listening, and validating your child’s feelings, all of which are supported through parent support strategies.

3. Regulation and Co-Regulation:

    One of the book's core concepts is the idea of regulation. Children need help from adults to regulate their emotions, especially when they are overwhelmed. Gobbel introduces techniques for co-regulation, where parents assist their children in managing their emotional responses until they can do so independently. This approach is often reinforced through play therapy techniques.

4. The Role of Trauma and Stress:

    Gobbel also explores how past trauma and stress can manifest in children’s behaviors. Understanding the impact of these experiences is crucial for parents to provide the appropriate support and interventions, often facilitated by specialized play therapy and ongoing parent support.

I was particularly impressed by Gobbel's writing style, which is conversational and compassionate. She seamlessly blends scientific insights with practical advice, making it a joy to read and easy to implement her strategies. Whether you're facing tantrums, defiance, or other baffling behaviors, this book equips you with the tools to transform challenges into opportunities for growth and connection. "Raising Kids with Big Baffling Behaviors" is a valuable resource for any parent looking to deepen their understanding of their child's behavior and strengthen their relationship. It's a book that not only enlightens but also empowers, offering a pathway towards more harmonious and fulfilling parenting.

Practical Strategies for Parents

Gobbel's book is not just theoretical; it’s packed with practical strategies that parents can implement immediately. Some of these include:

• Creating a Safe Space: Children need to feel safe to express themselves. Gobbel provides tips on creating a home environment that fosters security and openness, a key aspect of successful play therapy.

• Present Parenting: Staying calm and present can be incredibly challenging when faced with a meltdown, but Gobbel offers mindfulness techniques to help parents remain centered. This mindfulness is a cornerstone of effective parent support.

• Positive Reinforcement: Instead of focusing solely on correcting negative behaviors, Gobbel encourages parents to recognize and reinforce positive behaviors, which can encourage children to repeat them.

Join Our Parent Book Study!

We are excited to invite you to join our Parent Book Study group, where we will delve into Robyn Gobbel's "Raising Kids with Big, Baffling Behaviors" together. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with other parents, share experiences, and gain deeper insights into managing and understanding your child's behaviors. Our supportive community will provide a safe space to discuss the book's concepts, ask questions, and learn from each other. Additionally, we will explore key play therapy techniques and parent support strategies to enhance our understanding and application of Gobbel’s insights.

Don't miss out on this chance to transform your parenting approach and build a stronger connection with your child. Sign up for our Parent Book Study group today and start the journey towards a more harmonious family life.

Together, we can navigate the challenges and celebrate the joys of raising our children. We look forward to seeing you in our book study group!

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