Parenting With Intention: The EQ Pause™
As a mother raising a child with Down syndrome, I’ve experienced firsthand that every child communicates differently, and sometimes behavior tells us something words cannot. Those moments have deepened my understanding of patience, empathy, advocacy, and the importance of meeting a child where they are.
That journey inspired The EQ Pause™—a simple framework for parents who want to respond with greater emotional awareness when emotions run high.
I’ve also curated resources that have helped inform conversations around emotional intelligence, intentional parenting, Down syndrome, family support, and caring for the parent’s heart including books and organizations such as the National Down Syndrome Society and Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network.
5 Ways to Respond Instead of React: A Quick EQ Guide
The EQ Pause™ is a simple, practical framework that helps parents build emotional awareness, understand what their child may be communicating, and lead with empathy and connection.
- P — Pause: Breathe before speaking or reacting.
- A — Acknowledge: Recognize what you’re feeling and consider what your child might be feeling, too.
- U — Understand: Look beyond the behavior and remember that behavior is communication.
- S — Support: Choose connection before correction.
- E — Engage Intentionally: Respond in a way that reflects the parent you want to be.
Practical Emotional Intelligence for Parenting
In this video, Shatanese shares practical emotional intelligence tools for parenting, drawing from her personal journey as a mother and her experience navigating the everyday emotions and challenges that come with parenting. Through the DSDN Parents Webinar Series, she explores how self-awareness, empathy, emotional regulation, and intentional communication can help parents respond with greater patience, connection, and purpose—especially when emotions run high.
Emotional Intelligence and Parenting
The Whole Brain Child
One of the best books for understanding what’s happening in your child’s brain during emotional moments—and how to respond with connection instead of control.
Daniel J. Siegel & Tina Payne Bryson
No Drama Discipline –
Practical tools for reducing power struggles while teaching children emotional regulation and resilience.
Daniel J. Siegel & Tina Payne Bryson
How to Talk so Kids will Listen
A timeless classic that provides simple communication strategies every parent can use
Adele Faber & Elaine Mazlish
Babies with Down Syndrome: A New Parent’s Guide
An encouraging and comprehensive guide for families beginning their journey, written by professionals and parents.
The Parent’s Guide to Down Syndrome
Each page teaches you ways to support your child through major milestones; nurture their development; and ensure that they succeed behaviorally, socially, and cognitively.
by Jen Jacob, Mardra Sikora
Mothers Reflect on How Children with Down Syndrome Enrich Their Lives
This book offers crucial information and perspective to pregnant women facing a pre or post-natal Down Syndrome diagnosis. GIFTS recommends that all women, regardless of age, receive screening for Down syndrome.
Kathryn Lynard Soper
Looking for More Support
Explore more resources created to encourage reflection, celebrate life’s beautiful moments, and foster understanding and connection.
Collect beautiful Moments
This journal is a peaceful guide to help you reflect on your mind, body, and soul—anchored in God’s divine plan. Let the pages and scenery invite rest, renewal, and deeper connection.
Live Every Moment: My Life as A Super Extra Ordinary Mom
Shatanese shares her journey through loss, survival, and healing—offering a powerful reflection on faith, resilience, and finding beauty in everyday moments.
The Adventures of Nina Sophia : My brother is special
The Adventures of Nina Sophia follows a young girl who finds meaning in life’s moments. In Book Three, she faces her brother’s surgery with love and courage.
Shatanese Reese Global Ltd
Inspiring Leaders From the Inside Out
