Connect Before You Correct
A parenting worksheet planning connection strategies during a child's distress and later redirection once calm, for common situations.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Parenting · Attachment-informed
- Approach / concern
- Family Therapy
- Technique
- Parenting · Attachment-informed
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the Connect Before You Correct?
Attachment-informed parenting approaches emphasize co-regulation and emotional connection before teaching or discipline, especially during distress.
Why it works
Siegel and Bryson (2011) describe ‘connect and redirect’ based on brain development. Gottman (1997) links emotional attunement with children’s self-regulation.
When to use it
- Meltdowns and tantrums
- Young children
- Anxious or sensitive children
- Parent coaching
How to use it in session
- Learn the two steps.
- Plan connection for common situations.
- Plan later redirection.
- Practise.
- Reflect on what worked.
Clinician tips
- Parents’ own calm comes first.
- Safety always takes priority.
- Repair if you lose your cool.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Does connecting reward the tantrum?
No. It calms the nervous system so learning can happen afterwards.
What if I’m too angry to connect?
Take a moment to calm yourself first; that models regulation.
References
Siegel, D. J., & Bryson, T. P. (2011). The whole-brain child: 12 revolutionary strategies to nurture your child’s developing mind. Delacorte Press.
Gottman, J. M. (1997). Raising an emotionally intelligent child. Simon & Schuster.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
