*Photo credit: MindShift

Many young children go through a phase of throwing tantrums and having meltdowns. These behaviors occur because they have not yet learned how to regulate their emotions. According to an article by MindShift, instead of waiting and hoping for children to outgrow this phase, adults can take action by teaching kids emotional literacy skills.

Preschoolers who learn these skills at a young age are able to calm themselves down and express their feelings in words. They are also more effective problem-solvers and better prepared for future success outside of the classroom.

Here are 5 things parents, teachers and caregivers can do to enhance a child’s emotional literacy:

1. Name emotions

When the child is expressing an emotion, help them put a name to what they are feeling. You could say, “You are mad.” “You are happy!” or “You are sad.”

2. Normalize emotions

Circle back on an emotion the child displayed and remind them that emotions are normal – everyone feels scared, happy or mad sometimes.

3. Develop strategies

Create simple strategies to help children respond to emotional stress. If a child is struggling with a behavior, have them verbalize what they can’t do along with what they can do. For example, if the child feels excited, they can’t throw things in the air, but they can clap their hands.

4. “Read” pictures

When an emotional part occurs in a story, pause and discuss the picture. Ask the child what emotion they think the character is feeling. Look at facial expressions, body language and what the character is doing.

5. Practice mindfulness

Set aside time with the child to discuss the sensations happening around you – the sounds, smells and sights. Try sitting quietly for one minute, then discuss what you saw and heard.

Read the entire article: The Benefits of Helping Preschoolers Understand and Discuss Their Emotions

Helping a young person along the road from childhood to adulthood is both a rewarding and challenging task. If you’re a parent, you know that children don’t come with a handbook. While there’s no simple guide, there are many time-tested skills that every parent can benefit from learning. Get some helpful tips from our 12-part parenting blog series!