Normalize All Emotions

 

 

One of the best things we can do to support children’s mental and emotional health is to ‘normalize’ emotions by talking about them. Our children absolutely deserve our support when dealing with big emotions. As adults we know that it’s not always appropriate to have our big feelings in public places, so reinforce your child’s emotions and set expectations for how to deal with those big feelings.  

 

Here are some positive ways to express and release emotions: 

 

1. Reading – read books with your child and discuss how the characters handle emotion, diversity, and conflict. 

2. Art – have your child draw, paint, collage, or sketch how he or she is feeling. 

3. Writing – have your child start a journal and write down how he or she felt throughout the day. 

4. Music – have your child pick a song that describes how he or she feels and turn the volume up. 

5. Talk – create a safe space at home where your child can tell you exactly how he or she is feeling, ask questions, and help him or her feel in control by coming up with a plan. 

6. Take a break – sometimes it’s best just to take a break and let your child’s mind calm down so you can have a thoughtful discussion when the time is right. 

 

 

Coach Benjamin Mizrahi. Educator. Learning Specialist. Family Coach. Father. Husband.   

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