While we are taking care of our children, making sure they are clean, clothed, fed, and secure, we should not forget that there are other things that we should teach them that are as equally important.
We should take care of their emotional needs as well. We should give them love. We should teach them how to manage their emotions; how to express their anger and sadness in a healthy way instead of telling them to stop feeling.
Here are 11 things you should teach your children to help them deal with their emotions.
1. ASK THEM HOW THEY FEEL
Let them know that it is safe to express their emotions. Motivate them to show what they are feeling. When you sense that something is bothering them, ask them about it. Let them tell you how they feel.
2. TEACH THEM TO PROPERLY IDENTIFY THEIR FEELINGS
Sometimes your children don’t know what they are feeling. That’s why you should teach them how to properly identify their emotions. When they are angry, they should be able to say they are angry.
3. DON’T MAKE THEM FEEL LIKE IT IS WRONG TO FEEL WHAT THEY ARE FEELING
Your children can’t stop feeling what they are feeling. So, you should never make them feel wrong or ashamed for their emotions just because you think they shouldn’t be feeling what they are feeling.
4. STRESS THE IMPORTANCE OF POSITIVE SELF-TALK
Constantly remind your kids how important it is to always be kind to themselves and use positive language. Whenever they are sad or upset, they should be able to tell themselves that everything will be okay.
5. USE FEELING WORDS WHEN YOU SPEAK TO THEM
Tell your children how you are feeling. Label your feelings and talk to them openly. Let them know what is happening with you and don’t leave them guessing. That will make them to open up to you and you will become closer.
6. TELL THEM HOW YOU MANAGE YOUR EMOTIONS
Tell your kids how you manage your feelings so that they know how important it is to be able to handle their emotions properly. Your kids should know that bottling up their feelings is never a good idea.
7. TALK ABOUT UNCOMFORTABLE SITUATIONS AND EMOTIONS WITH THEM
Talk with your children about things or situations that you both find uncomfortable. Talk about uncomfortable emotions as well. Of course, no one wants to talk about depression and sadness, but you should do it so that they know that it is okay to feel sad sometimes.
8. SPEND OUTDOOR TIME TOGETHER
This will help you and your children relax. Make sure that your children know the importance and the benefits of spending time in nature.
9. HAVE CLEAR BOUNDARIES WITH YOUR CHILDREN BUT DON’T DISMISS THEM
Make sure your children are aware that while they are allowed to express their feelings, they shouldn’t lash out. Teach them that they should always think before they act.
10. SET A GOOD EXAMPLE
Be an example for your children. Handle your emotions properly without lashing out or having an emotional outburst. Let them know that there is another way of expressing their emotions.
11. MAKE SURE THAT YOUR KIDS ARE COMFORTABLE TALKING TO YOUR ABOUT THEIR FEELINGS
You should make them feel safe and understood. Your children must know that they can always come to you for understanding and guidance. That’s why you should never judge them or make them feel bad for telling you about their feelings.
