Name emotions out loud as they happen

When your child is upset, help them label what they are feeling: "It looks like you are feeling frustrated because your tower fell down" or "I can see you are disappointed that we cannot go to the park today." Name your own emotions too: "I am feeling stressed right now because I have a lot of work."

Why It Works

Neuroscience research shows that naming an emotion ("affect labeling") reduces its intensity. Children who can identify what they feel can begin to manage it. A child who says "I'm frustrated" is already calmer than a child who is just screaming.

Tips

• Use a feelings chart or emotion wheel poster for children who are too young to have a large emotional vocabulary
• Validate the emotion before trying to fix the problem: "It makes sense that you feel angry"
• Avoid dismissing emotions: "You're fine" or "Stop crying" teaches children to suppress rather than process
• Model emotional labeling throughout the day, even for mild emotions: "I'm excited about dinner tonight"