Children feel everything—deeply, loudly, and often in ways they don’t yet understand. A skipped turn, a loud noise, a goodbye, or even a new shirt that feels “scratchy”—these moments can spark emotional responses that seem overwhelming to us, but are very real for them.
As parents, caregivers, and educators, we play a powerful role in teaching children how to navigate their emotions—not suppress them. At Adhia Foundations, we believe every feeling is valid, and every child deserves to be seen, heard, and supported.
Let’s explore how we can gently guide them through their “big feelings.”
🌪️ What Are “Big Feelings”?
Big feelings are intense emotions like:
- Anger
- Fear
- Frustration
- Sadness
- Shame
- Excitement (yes, even the positive ones!)
These emotions may show up as tantrums, tears, withdrawal, hyperactivity, or even silence. Remember: behind every behavior is a feeling, and behind every feeling is a need.
🧠 Why Emotional Regulation Is a Skill—Not a Trait
Children are still developing the brain regions responsible for managing emotions, especially the prefrontal cortex. This means they aren’t being “dramatic” or “naughty”—they simply haven’t learned how to handle what they’re feeling yet.
They need:
- Safe spaces to express emotion
- Empathy and presence from adults
- Clear but gentle boundaries
- Tools and language to understand what’s happening inside
❤️ How You Can Support Your Child Through Big Feelings
1. Stay Calm—Even When They Aren’t
Your calm helps regulate their storm. Take a deep breath. Speak slowly. Your nervous system becomes their anchor.
“I see you’re really upset. I’m here with you.”
2. Name the Feeling
Help your child build emotional vocabulary.
“You seem really angry that your toy broke. That’s understandable.”
Naming emotions helps make them less scary and more manageable.
3. Validate, Don’t Fix
Children don’t always need a solution—they need to feel understood.
“That was really disappointing, wasn’t it? I get why you feel that way.”
Validation soothes the brain and fosters trust.
4. Set Boundaries with Empathy
Feelings are always allowed. Behaviors aren’t always okay. Set limits lovingly.
“It’s okay to be angry. It’s not okay to hit. Let’s find another way to show your anger.”
5. Teach Tools for Expression
Use art, storytelling, breathing techniques, or even a “feelings corner” to help kids express themselves safely.
- Drawing or painting how they feel
- Using puppets or role play
- Deep belly breaths with visuals like “smell the flower, blow out the candle”
🧸 What Children Need Most
- Connection: Being present matters more than having the perfect words.
- Consistency: Predictable routines create emotional safety.
- Compassion: Your empathy helps build their self-esteem and resilience.
🌈 Helping Your Child Helps You Too
Supporting your child emotionally is a powerful mirror into your own feelings, triggers, and patterns. If you’re finding it hard to stay calm or feel overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Parenting is emotional work—and seeking guidance is a sign of strength.
We’re here to walk with you, offering tools and perspective to make this journey gentler—for you and your child.
💬 Want personalized guidance on parenting through emotions?
Explore our Child & Adolescent Support Services or Book a Parent Coaching Session with one of our trained child therapists.
Let’s help your child not just “cope” with big feelings—but understand, accept, and grow through them.
