Helping Kids Name & Navigate Big Emotions

Children experience emotions just as intensely as adults, sometimes even more so, because they’re still learning how to manage them. One of the greatest gifts we can give as parents is to help our kids name their feelings and find healthy ways to express them.

Why Emotional Vocabulary Matters 
When children have the words to describe what they’re feeling, they’re less likely to act out or shut down. Emotional vocabulary is the foundation for self-regulation and healthy relationships.

Practical Tips: 
- Use simple language: “It looks like you’re feeling frustrated. Want to talk about it?” 
- Model emotional honesty: Share your own feelings in age-appropriate ways. 
- Create a “feelings chart” together to help your child identify their emotions. 
- Encourage drawing, storytelling, or play to help process big feelings.

Building Emotional Safety 
When kids feel safe to express what’s really going on inside, they’re less likely to bottle things up, and more likely to develop emotional resilience for life.

Remember 
It’s not about “fixing” emotions, but about helping your child feel seen, heard, and supported as they learn to navigate their inner world.