PARENT TIPS - FROM OUR CATHOLIC CARE COUNSELLOR 

Managing Big Emotions

Helping children manage big emotions is essential for their emotional development and well-being. When children learn to navigate and regulate their emotions effectively, they are better equipped to handle challenges, build positive relationships, and succeed academically and socially. By teaching them how to identify and express their feelings in healthy ways, parents/carers lay the groundwork for emotional intelligence, a skill that will serve them well into adulthood. Moreover, managing big emotions helps children develop resilience, enabling them to bounce back from setbacks and face life’s ups and downs with greater confidence and stability. Parents play an essential role in this process by providing a supportive and understanding environment where emotions are acknowledged and managed constructively, setting their children on a path toward emotional health and success in all aspects of life.

Here are some tips on helping your kids manage big emotions:

Recognize and Validate Feelings: Acknowledge your child's emotions without judgement. Help them label their feelings (e.g., "It sounds like you're feeling frustrated") to build emotional awareness.

Teach Relaxation Techniques: Teach simple techniques like deep breathing, counting to ten, or mindfulness exercises to help your child calm down when they are upset or overwhelmed.

Encourage Effective Communication: Teach your child to express their feelings verbally rather than through behaviours like tantrums or withdrawal. Encourage them to use "I feel" statements to express emotions.

Set Limits and Provide Structure: Consistent routines and clear expectations can help children feel more secure and reduce anxiety-triggering situations.

Model Healthy Emotion Regulation: Children learn by observing. Show them how to manage stress and frustration calmly and positively. Model healthy ways to cope with your own emotions.

Create a Safe Space for Expression: Foster an environment where your child feels safe to talk about their feelings. Listen actively and empathetically, showing understanding and support.

Problem-Solve Together: Help your child brainstorm solutions to the issues causing their emotions. This empowers them to take action and feel more in control of their situations.

Encourage Physical Activity: Physical activity can help children release built up emotions and reduce stress. Encourage regular exercise as part of their routine. Out of school activities is a great way.

Use Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child when they handle emotions well or use coping strategies effectively. Positive reinforcement reinforces positive behaviours.

Seek Professional Help if Needed: If your child consistently struggles with managing emotions or shows signs of significant distress, consider seeking guidance from a paediatrician, counsellor, or therapist.

By implementing these strategies consistently and with patience, you can help your children develop the skills they need to manage big emotions effectively and navigate life’s challenges with resilience and confidence.

Sara Ljuboja

School Counsellor