If you’re the parents of toddlers, you’ll know the toddler years are somewhat of a whirlwind. They can switch from infectious laughter to tearful meltdowns, and handling these huge emotions for tiny humans can be a challenge for toddlers and caregivers. However, teaching emotional wellness in toddlers is essential to their long-term development. Here’s how to help your little one weather the emotional storms and build a strong foundation for healthy emotional regulation.
Building Emotional Vocabulary: The Power of Words
Toddlers often struggle to express their feelings verbally because their vocabulary and language are still massively undeveloped. This can lead to frustration and outbursts. However, helping them identify and name their emotions opens a window into their world, creating space for a deeper connection and understanding. Talk about emotions throughout the day, describing not just your own feelings but also those of others.
- Narrate their experiences: “It looks like you’re feeling frustrated because you can’t reach that toy.”
- Read about emotions: Look for age-appropriate books with vibrant illustrations depicting different emotions.
- Use emotion charts: Create a simple chart with pictures representing common emotions (happy, sad, angry, scared) and discuss them with your toddler. These are often excellent techniques that Early Childhood Development (ECD) teachers employ, too.
Building a Safe Space for Expression: Validation is Key
When toddlers are overwhelmed with emotions, they may resort to tantrums or crying. It’s important to resist the urge to minimise or dismiss their feelings. Instead, validate their emotions and offer comfort.
- Acknowledge their feelings: “I see you’re crying. Are you feeling sad because you want another cookie?”
- Offer physical comfort: A hug, cuddle, or gentle touch can be calming for a distressed toddler.
- Maintain a calm demeanour: Your calmness will be a soothing anchor during their emotional storm.
Teaching Coping Mechanisms: Tools for Calming Down
While validation is essential, toddlers need strategies to manage their emotions constructively. Here are some simple coping mechanisms you can introduce:
- Deep breathing: Turn it into a game! Have your child blow bubbles or pretend to smell a flower while taking slow, deep breaths together. Play is how your little ones learn the most about life.
- Body awareness: Help your child identify where they feel emotions in their body. For example, “I see your fists are clenched. Are you feeling angry?”
- Calming activities: Create a “calm down corner” with soothing objects like stuffed animals, fidget toys, or calming music.
- Distraction: If a situation escalates, try redirecting their attention with a new activity or favourite toy.
Leading by Example: You Are Their Role Model
As the primary influencers in your child’s life, your role in their emotional wellness is crucial. Be mindful of how you express your own emotions, as your actions speak louder than words. The techniques, as mentioned above, will mean very little if you’re not modelling them in the home or engaging with them.
- Model healthy coping mechanisms: Talk about your own feelings and how you manage them.
- Practice self-care: Prioritise your own emotional well-being. A regulated caregiver is better equipped to help a dysregulated child. No, it won’t always be easy, but a little effort goes a long way.
- Seek support: Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from a paediatrician or child development specialist if you struggle to manage your toddler’s emotions.
The Importance of Play: A Fun Path to Emotional Learning
Play is a natural learning environment for toddlers. Through play, they can explore emotions, practice social skills, and develop coping mechanisms.
- Engage in pretend play: Role-playing scenarios allow toddlers to experiment with different emotions and social interactions.
- Read stories with emotional themes: Discuss how characters in stories experience and manage their emotions.
- Encourage creative expression: Provide your child with materials for art, music, and storytelling, allowing them to express emotions in creative ways.
Building emotional wellness is an ongoing process, and it’s important to remember that it’s normal for toddlers to have emotional challenges. Are we saying you will have the ideal Disney family who never loses their tempers, requires discipline, or never has tantrums? No, we’re not, and besides, life would be far less interesting if that were the case. There will be setbacks and meltdowns. However, by consistently offering validation, teaching coping skills, and modelling healthy emotional expression, you’ll be equipping your toddler with the tools they need to navigate the world of emotions with confidence.
Resources
- The Gottman Institute: https://www.gottman.com/blog/age-age-guide-helping-kids-manage-emotions/
- NHS Choices: https://www.gottman.com/blog/age-age-guide-helping-kids-manage-emotions/
- First 5 California: https://www.first5california.com/en-us/articles/how-to-help-your-toddler-manage-big-emotions/