Diversity Views

PINC Strength & Connection

Navigating Big Feelings, Together

Last Thursday evening, the Learning Support team welcomed Yvonne Kilpatrick (Co-owner and Director of Amherst Psychology) to speak at our Term 2 PINC event.

The session focused on connected parenting and how to navigate big emotions—especially within neurodivergent households, where those emotions can often feel even more intense.

In her honest and empathetic talk, Von reminded us that parenting is a tough journey for everyone, and that big feelings are part of every household (even though it often feels like it’s just yours).

She shared practical, compassionate strategies, including:

• The importance of co-regulation

• Using “I” statements to avoid blame

• The ACE anchor technique to help bring calm during emotional storms

• The power of naming emotions—what she called a “small but mighty” technique

• How to use the Yale Mood Meter to understand and respond to emotional states

• And why it’s essential to “play the long game” when it comes to relationships and parenting

If you weren’t able to attend but would like a copy of Von’s presentation, please get in touch with Ms Calegari.