The article delves into a common scenario where a child gets hurt, focusing on a six-year-old girl who falls while playing. In such moments, children look to their parents for cues on how to respond to pain, which can be influenced heavily by the adult's reactions. The author, drawing from experiences as both a parent and a pain scientist, emphasizes the importance of how adults' reactions can either exacerbate a child's fear of pain or help them understand it's a manageable experience.

The article points out that typical parental instincts might lead to panicking or rushing in to comfort the child immediately without acknowledging the child's feelings. Instead of offering empty reassurances or overly dramatized reactions, the article suggests that parents focus on teaching children about resilience and the adaptability of their bodies. This approach teaches children that pain doesn't have to be a catastrophic event but rather a feeling they can endure and understand.

Furthermore, it stresses that children tend to mirror the emotional state of adults, essentially borrowing their 'nervous system.' Therefore, remaining calm and using supportive phrases instead of common but unhelpful expressions can empower children. Not only does it help them manage their own distress, but it also fosters a sense of safety and resilience in dealing with pain as they grow up.