A conference titled "Children's Emotions: Understanding Them to Better Support Them" was held in Lavelanet, France. The event, organized by the Early Childhood Center, was led by Hélène Cheutin, a parenting consultant and sophrologist, and was aimed at both staff and parents of children attending the center.
Cheutin emphasized that parenting is a continuous learning process, requiring adaptation and awareness. She noted that there's no instruction manual for parenting, and parents often feel alone in navigating the challenges of work, family, and home life. She highlighted the importance of understanding children's emotions, even the difficult ones, and how societal pressures can sometimes lead to unhelpful reactions.
The conference also touched upon affective and social neuroscience, explaining that brain development continues well into adulthood. Cheutin advocated for a loving, warm, and empathetic parenting style, informed by the latest neuroscience research. The event aimed to inspire practical changes in how attendees approach parenting.