Goal

Disconnection between parents and children is a growing problem of our modern times. Technology provides great opportunities for progress but has also widened the gap between individuals. With each family member spending more time stuck to a device or screen, there is less face to face time which is crucial for developing healthy relationships. Yet, parents can provide the fertile ground that children need in order to flourish. Within this scenario we envision that parents can learn to coach their children to grow into emotionally well-adjusted adults. Evidence from research suggests that the ability to regulate emotions is predictive for education level, better mental health and social relationships.

Opportunity

Research in the field of developmental psychology has shown that emotion regulation skills can be developed in children by empowering parents in their understanding of emotion regulation. They can learn to support and coach their children in everyday situations which will help children to be confident adults who are kind to others.

Roadblocks

Cultural sensitivities may hinder participation of diverse communities. We have to be aware of intercultural differences and provide activities that are adaptable.

Breakthroughs Needed

First there needs to be a clear vision of how projects can be adapted to suit diverse communities. This can easily be dealt with by requesting the participation of diverse communities so they can provide input on cultural sensitivities.

Key Indicators of Success

Within several years, many projects will be launched empowering parents in their understanding of their own relationship with emotions and how they can use this knowledge to, in turn, empower their own children.
Flourishing could be defined as successful relationships and being in the position to make a positive contribution to one's community.
Failure would mean that some parents cannot be empowered because the are unwilling or unable to make a change due to personal circumstances such as poverty.