The Preschooler

Identifying Feelings

Emotions and feelings are a difficult concept for young children, and even adults, to understand. They are a natural part of being human, and feelings are never wrong to have. However, it is very important for children to learn that we must be able to control our feelings. So how do parents help their children to manage their emotions?

Before children can learn to control their feelings, they must first be able to identify the various feelings. Books can be a great tool to help illustrate feelings by identifying them in the various characters. Take the time to ask your child what a character may be feeling while reading the story. For example, if little Susie has just had come inside for dinner instead of playing with her friends, you can help your child point out that Susie is probably sad or even angry.

Another way you can help your child identify feelings is by pointing them out in other people. If you child snatches a toy from his younger sister, you can tell your son that he can’t grab toys because it makes his sister sad.

Probably the best place to identify feelings is in the child himself. Ask your child how he feels throughout the day. Maybe he is excited that he gets his favorite breakfast today or perhaps he is disappointed that it is raining outside. Ask him how he feels, and then help him find the words to describe that feeling.

Feelings can be difficult for children to understand because they can’t hold them in their hands. However, once your child can point out the different feelings, he will be ready to learn how to control them.

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Written by BRWI Staff on April 1, 2009