Helping Little Ones Deal With Big Feelings

As they are in their vulnerable stage, young children need a safe space to express their feelings, no matter how big or small. In this blog, we will discuss ways to provide emotional support and conflict resolution for your little ones.

Hear Them Out

Acknowledging that something is wrong is the first step on the path to helping our children deal with their feelings. Prepare an open mind, and don’t be denying or judgmental about the situation. As parents, we know it’s easy to get frustrated, but try to stay calm and listen to what they have to say.

Help Them Put Their Feelings Into Words

As early as the age of two, children are seen to develop complex emotions, which at times may be difficult to express. Help your child put their feelings into words by using simple terms like “sad”, “angry”, and “frustrated.” This will help them identify and characterize their emotions in the future.

Show Them How to Talk About Feelings

Being a role model is one of the most important things parents can do to help their children understand and process big feelings. Show them how to express themselves in a calm and respectful manner. This can be anything from taking deep breaths to writing down how they feel.

Validate Their Feelings

It's important that we make it clear that negative feelings are not wrong or bad and that we are here to help them through difficult times. Letting them know that it's okay to feel scared, sad, and angry is the most important thing we can do as parents.

Let Them Get Their Feelings Out Physically

Sometimes, children need to get out their feelings in a physical way. Whether it's through stomping their feet, jumping on the bed, or running around outside, it's important to allow them to do this in a safe space.

Accept Them Where They Are

At the end of the day, our children need to know that it's okay to feel their feelings and that we will always love them no matter what. What's important is how we shape these feelings into something positive.