Empathy is one of the best approaches parents can use to help their kids when they struggle emotionally. Providing empathy maintains parental authority without giving up or giving in. At the same time, it strengthens relationships between kids and their parents, and kids learn essential emotional regulation skills.

Most parents love their kids tremendously, but it can sometimes feel like there is a disconnect or uncertainty in whether kids actually experience that love. This article addresses the role of effectively conveying love as a core tenet of parenting.