Kate, Princess of Wales, used a simple parenting technique to help keep her five-year-old son Prince Louis in line during the Coronation, according to body-language experts. The subtle method was a way to ensure Louis behaved during the event that was watched by millions of people around the world, without drawing attention.
Body language expert Judi James told the Sun: "Kate could be seen keeping a very subtle eye on Louis during the ceremony, and offering him motivational ‘reward’ touches of affection when he did something right.
“William and Kate showed they clearly understand the need for all their children to learn to enjoy royal events rather than to dread them by seeing them as a chore, bore, or challenge to get through.”
The technique is a type of mirroring, reflecting good behaviour with positive behaviour - rather than 'telling off' a child who has done something wrong. It can be as simple as touches of affection or a smile.
Mirroring, as a parenting technique, refers to the act of reflecting or imitating a child's emotions, behaviors, or verbalizations in a supportive and empathetic manner. It involves mirroring back to the child what they are experiencing, which helps them feel heard, understood, and validated. The goal of mirroring is to establish a strong emotional connection with the child and promote effective communication.
When practicing mirroring, parents actively listen to their child, pay attention to their body language and emotions, and reflect those experiences back to them. For example, if a child is upset or frustrated, a parent might say, "I can see that you're feeling really angry right now. It must be frustrating for you." By acknowledging and mirroring the child's emotions, parents convey empathy and understanding.
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Mirroring can also involve imitating a child's actions or words in a playful manner. For instance, if a toddler is pretending to be a dinosaur, a parent might join in and mimic their movements, showing enthusiasm and engagement. This kind of mirroring can enhance the child's sense of connection, encourage creativity, and foster a positive parent-child bond.
By using mirroring as a parenting technique, caregivers demonstrate their attentiveness, validate their child's emotions, and create an environment where the child feels safe to express themselves. It helps children develop emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and a stronger connection with their parents.
