An emotional cup is metaphorical but think about it like your phone. When it starts to run out of battery or you haven’t done the latest update…it doesn’t work quite so well. So in the same way we have to recharge, update and take care of our child’s inner system (and our own for that matter!)

When our emotional cup drains, things change and this is when we start to see challenging and often unwanted behaviour.

Here are 21 ideas to pick and choose from. If you're really stuck you could try one a day for the next three weeks and see how it goes.

1. You make me smile.

2. I love spending time with you.

3. It’s okay to be different.

4. Your voice matters.

5. I will always love you.

6. I’m grateful for you.

7. You’re unique.

8. I love being your parent.

9. I’m always here for you.

10. I trust you.

11. Your cuddles make me feel so loved.

12. You’re a wonderful sibling.

13. It’s okay to share how you feel.

14. I’m proud of you.

15. I love spending time with you.

16. There is no one like you and that makes you so special.

17. You can do hard things.

18. This family wouldn’t be the same without you.

19. I’m inspired by you.

20. You are interesting, smart and brave.

21. I love you.

Which one will make the biggest difference for your child?