Parents can help children express and understand their feelings in many creative ways. As children age it becomes increasingly crucial that they learn to discuss their emotions rather than act them out inappropriately. Children learn to express themselves emotionally through imaginative play, artwork, modeling the behavior of others and developing their language skills. The New York University Child Study Center recommends teaching kids as young as possible that, although all feelings are acceptable, all actions are not.
Imagination and Emotion
Setting up time for imaginative play is important in helping children get in touch with feelings, according to the book, "Exploring Feelings: Activities for Young Children." One way children verbalize how they feel is through play. For example, a child who is anxious about starting school could play a game about school in which she assumes the role of teacher. When roles change, she can be encouraged to act out her feelings as a student. It is helpful for parents to observe children at play, then to ask questions like: Did that game make you feel good? Why? Play can be enhanced by bringing in craft materials such as boxes, paints or building blocks.
Language Enhancement
Since many kids do not have all the words to express themselves, KidsHealth recommends helping them learn to identify their emotions. Encourage your child to understand more complex kinds of emotions than just sad, mad and happy. Explain what jealousy, excitement or nervousness feels like. Describe other situations that may make them feel that way. Most of all, kids want to be listened to, heard, and encouraged.
Everything is Temporary
Remind kids that feelings are temporary and it is normal to feel many different ways. Encourage a constructive expression of feelings within the family. "Putting feelings into words helps kids communicate and develop emotional awareness--the ability to recognize their own emotional states," explains KidsHealth.
Understanding Anger
According to the New York University Child Study Center, parents and educators can help children develop greater emotional depth. The Center recommends asking questions such as: Did you feel angry when the boy took your toy? If a child handles anger well, praise him and reiterate what he did well. If he did not handle a high-pressure situation very well, discuss alternative actions like "walk away" or "tell an adult" that would have been better options. NYU Child Study Center also recommends teaching children deep breathing and other relaxation exercises prior to situations you know will be stressful for him.
Modeling Appropriate Skills
Kids learn a great deal through mimicry. Model effective stress management skills for your child as often as possible. Describe for her how you and many other people manage negative feelings through exercise, reading, writing, deep breathing, meditating or listening to music, suggests the NYU Child Study Center.
