Using the Tuning in to Kids programs to foster children’s emotional competence: Application of developmental theory to practice

Extensive developmental research has demonstrated the central role parents and caregivers play in shaping children’s understanding and regulation of emotions. When caregivers accept, support and guide children to learn about emotions, children are more likely to use emotions effectively and adaptively. But this way of responding to emotions is challenging. Many caregivers are more comfortable trying to fix children’s problems, and dismissing or being critical of emotions.  

The Tuning in to Kids® (TIK) programs teach caregivers supportive emotion socialisation skills in order to promote children’s emotional competence and prevent or treat behavioural, social and emotional problems. TIK helps caregivers understand their own emotions and reflect on how their family of origin has shaped their reactions to emotions. Skills are taught in how to respond using five steps of emotion coaching: awareness, connection, empathy, naming and guiding problem solving or setting limits. TIK can be used in universal or clinical settings and there are versions for parents of toddlers, preschoolers, primary school children and adolescents, as well as for fathers and for teachers. Twenty-five years of research studies provide evidence for TIK being effective including evaluation in different countries around the world. Examples of how the program is used will be presented, along with some of the challenges of disseminating a program that focuses on emotions.