EMOTIONS & TRIGGERS
Name one early warning sign that someone is getting overwhelmed.
emotional awareness
Name one coping skill used in this family (hint: visual supports, safe words, or structured tools).
behavior chart (rewards/consequences), majestic unicorn, time outs, deep breaths, and more____
What does “active listening” look like?
listening + reflection
What is one shared family value mentioned in sessions?
values identification (trust, honesty, respect, unity)
What are the colors used in the behavior chart?
purple/green/yellow/red zones (what are they)
When a sibling feels ignored when parent is busy. What is an effective way to communicate that feeling?
needs expression vs. escalation
practice: express feeling and a positive need
What does the “safe word” can do in conflict situations?
interruption of escalation cycle
Turn this into a “we statement” instead of blame:
“You never listen to me.”
reframing communication:
I feel sad when it seems like we're not on the same page. Can WE refocus so we can understand each other better?
What does “turning toward each other” mean in conflict?
actually turning towards each other, non-verbal communication
What does “5:1 positive attention” mean?
reinforcement ratio (give example how you can use it)
What is a “primary emotion” underneath anger that might show up?
fear, hurt, sadness, rejection
Name one way to calm your body when you feel yourself escalating.
regulation (breathing, space, grounding)
What is one way to validate someone’s feelings even if you disagree with their behavior?
practice: validation skill
How can sibling conflict sometimes be a “signal” instead of just bad behavior?
meaning behind behavior (give examples)
What is the purpose of the behavior chart in the home?
structure + reinforcement
A sibling starts teasing and the other feels like they are “losing control.” What could they do before it escalates?
practice: escalation interruption / pause skill
If someone is in “red zone,” what should they NOT do in that moment?
continue arguing
Give an example of a respectful way to ask for a need (like attention, space, or help).
Curiosity + repair:
“I feel unheard right now. Can we slow down and make sure I’m getting my point across and also hear your side?”
Response: “Okay, what were you needing me to understand?”
That opens space to reconnect and actually solve it.
What is one way parents can reduce escalation during conflict?
co-regulation / parenting strategy (give examples)
What should happen after a rule is broken if the family is using a skill-based approach?
consequence + repair + teaching (examples)
Why might someone show irritability or defiance even when they actually want connection?
protective behavior / hidden needs
Create a 3-step plan for calming down before responding to conflict.
structured coping plan
1._____
2._____
3._____
What happens to family conflict when people use blame instead of curiosity?
Describe how the “cycle” between conflict and reaction usually starts.
escalation cycle mapping (examples on what we notice and how people react)
How can structure (like charts or routines) actually reduce emotional outbursts over time?
predictability = regulation
BONUS:
Describe one this our family could make this week that would improve communication AND reduce conflict.
Must include: