Pauline Hulse Counselling

13/04/2026

Big feelings can make little bodies feel wiggly, fast, or overwhelmed — and that’s where simple regulation tools can help.

Finger breathing is one of the easiest ways to calm a child’s nervous system because it combines touch, movement, and slow breathing. No equipment, no prep, just their own hands.

This gentle strategy helps a child slow their breathing, focus their mind, and feel more in control of their body. It’s brain-based, child-friendly, and can be used anywhere — at school, in the car, or before sleep.

Teaching calming skills when a child is settled makes it easier to use them when feelings grow big.

Swipe to learn finger breathing and practise it together. Calm is a skill, and skills can be taught.

11/04/2026

A simple hand signal can be a powerful safety tool.

Many children struggle to find words in the moment, especially when they feel unsure, overwhelmed, or pressured. Teaching a clear “stop” signal gives them a voice even when words feel hard.

When a child shows their palm and says “Stop, I don’t like it,” they are setting a boundary. This is not rude or dramatic. It is a life skill.

The beauty of this strategy is that it can be seen from a distance. A teacher, parent, or safe adult can quickly notice the raised palm and recognise that the child is uncomfortable.

This helps adults step in sooner, support the child, and prevent situations from escalating. It also teaches children that their body and space matter.

Practise it at home through role play so it feels natural to use. Confidence grows with rehearsal, not pressure.

To SAVE, click on the image, tap the three dots, and choose Save.
If you’d like the boy version, comment BOY below. Facebook only.

What phrase do you teach your child to use when they feel uncomfortable? Sharing ideas helps other families too.

11/04/2026

In case you needed to hear any or all of these today 💖

31/03/2026

Leaving your child when they’re anxious can feel overwhelming—for both of you.
But with the right support, separation anxiety can gently ease over time.

Here are 5 simple, connection-based steps to help your child feel safer when you say goodbye.

If this is something you’re navigating right now, you’re not alone—and you’re not doing anything wrong.

To SAVE, click on the image, tap the three dots, and choose Save.

For deeper support, including scripts, visuals, and step-by-step guidance, explore the Managing Big Feelings Toolkit—link in comments below ⬇️ or via Linktree Shop in Bio.

31/03/2026

Today is International Transgender Day of Visibility.

Feeling safe, affirmed, and supported is vital for mental health. Today and every day, we stand with trans people as they blossom.

Thanks to thefoxfisher on Instagram for allowing us to share this beautiful illustration.

31/03/2026

THE GROUNDING TECHNIQUE

Today’s visual shares one of the simplest, most effective tools for helping a child come back into their body when anxiety, overwhelm or dysregulation takes over.

Grounding works because it brings the brain out of “threat mode” and back into the present moment — a key part of brain-based parenting and co-regulation.

Young people often tell us that having something practical to do in the moment makes big feelings feel less scary and more manageable.

You can use this strategy at home, in school, during transitions, or any time a child feels “stuck” in their emotions.

30/03/2026

For many families, the hardest part of the school day isn’t the learning — it’s the goodbye.

This visual explains why goodbyes can feel so intense, especially when separation anxiety is present, and how a clear, predictable goodbye plan can help mornings feel safer for children and parents.

If drop-offs leave you feeling upset, guilty, or torn, please know this:
hard goodbyes are not a sign you’re doing something wrong — they’re a sign of strong attachment.

Save this, share it with someone who needs it, and go gently with yourselves this week.

27/03/2026

Remember to look after yourself as well as others

Image: https://www.instagram.com/parrottpaints

22/03/2026