If You Feel It, Talk About it:
You can help your child to develop the skill of emotional awareness by showing them that you are interested in how they feel—and by talking about your own feelings as well. The next time your mood changes, tell your children; so they can see that grown-ups also have mood swings, and that it's something everyone can be open about.
Here are some simple questions you can ask your kids to help them identify and discuss their emotions:
For children 2-6
- You look upset. Can you draw me a picture of what you are feeling? Which colors best show how you are feeling?
- How does your body feel when you are sad (angry, happy, etc.)? Can you make up a dance that shows me how you are feeling?
For children 7-12
- It seems as though your mood just changed. Can you tell me what happened or what you were thinking about that triggered the change?
- How do you feel when your emotions change quickly? What's that like for you?