As moms, we’ve all been there - our child is melting down over something that seems small, and we’re left wondering, What do I even say right now? Helping kids navigate big emotions can feel overwhelming, but the good news is, we don’t have to be experts in child psychology to support them. We just need the right tools.
Kids are still learning how to process emotions. What seems like a small problem to us might feel like the end of the world to them. Instead of brushing off their feelings, we can teach them how to recognize, express, and cope with emotions in a healthy way.
One of the best things we can do is simply acknowledge their emotions.
🔹 Instead of: “Stop crying. It’s not a big deal.”
🔹 Try: “I see that you’re really upset. It’s okay to feel this way.”
Validating doesn’t mean we have to agree with their reaction - it just means we’re showing them that their feelings matter.
Kids sometimes act out because they don’t know how to explain what they’re feeling. Help them by giving words to emotions:
✅ “It sounds like you’re frustrated because your toy broke.”
✅ “You’re feeling disappointed because your friend canceled the playdate.”
The more they practice naming emotions, the better they’ll be at communicating instead of melting down.
Big feelings can be overwhelming, so having go-to calming techniques is helpful. Try these:
🫁 Deep Breathing – Teach them to take deep belly breaths (inhale for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds).
🎨 Creative Outlets – Drawing, coloring, or journaling can help them process feelings.
🦋 Butterfly Hug – Cross arms over the chest and tap shoulders gently for comfort.
🎵 Music & Movement – Playing music or dancing can shift their mood.
When kids know they can come to us with any emotion—without fear of punishment or dismissal - they’re more likely to open up. Encourage conversation with simple questions like:
💬 “What was the best and hardest part of your day?”
💬 “Do you want advice, or do you just need me to listen?”
Let them know that no feeling is too big or too small to share with you.
Our kids learn from watching us. When we openly express and regulate our own emotions, we teach them how to do the same. Try saying:
🔹 “I’m feeling frustrated, so I’m going to take a deep breath before I respond.”
🔹 “I was upset earlier, but talking about it helped me feel better.”
This shows them that emotions are normal and manageable.
Talking to kids about big feelings isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about creating a space where they feel seen, heard, and supported. With a little patience and a lot of love, we can help our children grow into emotionally resilient individuals. 💛
What’s your favorite way to help your kids through tough emotions? Drop a comment below!
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Amber Bowie
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