Building trust and openness in relationships, particularly between parents and children, requires time and practice. Our mental health services in London offer guidance on how to engage in conversations about children’s emotions.
Modeling Openness
Demonstrating openness in front of children is crucial. Recognize your comfort level in discussing emotions with others and be willing to be vulnerable when necessary to set a positive example.
Encouraging Expression
Children may struggle to share their feelings openly. Utilize conversation starters like ‘Blob cards’, ‘School of Life 100 Questions for Families’, ‘StoryCubes’, or enjoy Disney’s Inside Out together. These activities can help children articulate their worries and emotions effectively.
Creating Dialogue
Engage children in discussions during meals or while watching TV to reflect on the day and express emotions. Ask open-ended questions to promote conversation and enhance understanding of feelings.
Providing a Safe Space
Recognize opportunities to have private conversations with your child. Listen without judgment, reassure them of your support and unconditional love, creating a safe environment for them to share their thoughts and emotions.
Promoting Active Listening
Enhance communication with your children by engaging in active listening exercises. Encourage them to share their feelings and thoughts by discussing hobbies or daily experiences.
During Children’s Mental Health Week, our AMH MensSana team shared strategies for helping children express their feelings.
Engaging Activities
Meaningful conversations often occur during shared activities like walks, drawing, or cooking. Lead by example and share your own experiences to foster openness.
Artistic Communication
Encourage children to communicate through art and writing by journaling. Provide materials for creative expression and explain the benefits of journaling.
Managing Worries
Create a ‘worry jar’ to assist children in externalizing and managing their worries. Label the jar, write down concerns, and allocate time for reflecting on worries.
Exploring Emotions
Engage children in a feelings scavenger hunt to explore various emotions. Use visual aids to encourage discussion on emotions and their triggers.
Using Storytelling
Utilize books to discuss emotions with young children. Reflect on feelings and thoughts through storytelling to initiate conversations about emotions.
Supporting Mental Health
Consider supporting Action Mental Health through donations or fundraising efforts on Just Giving.
Learn About Action Mental Health
Discover the work of Action Mental Health and their initiatives to support individuals with mental health requirements.
Understanding Behavior
Observing and supporting children through play can reveal underlying issues. Create a safe space for them to express aggression or withdrawal.
It is important to remember that behavior is a form of communication for children. By paying attention to their actions and reactions, we can gain insight into their thoughts and emotions. Providing a safe and supportive environment for children to express themselves can help them navigate their feelings and behaviors effectively.
Addressing Abuse Concerns
Having open dialogues about abuse is crucial. Encourage children to share their experiences and provide resources for seeking help if necessary.
Managing Anger
Teach children to handle anger by exploring the reasons behind their emotions. Consistent communication is essential for understanding their feelings.
It is important to teach children healthy ways to manage their anger, such as deep breathing exercises, taking a break from the situation, or practicing positive self-talk. Encouraging them to express their feelings through journaling or artwork can also be helpful.
Additionally, modeling healthy anger management techniques yourself can have a powerful influence on children. Show them how to calmly express their emotions, set boundaries, and seek support when needed.
Dealing with Distressing News
Addressing children’s exposure to distressing news realistically is essential in today’s digital age. With constant access to the internet and social media, children are often bombarded with upsetting news stories that can leave them feeling anxious and scared. It’s important for parents and caregivers to have open and honest conversations with children about what they see and hear, and to provide age-appropriate explanations to help them understand.
Reassurance is key in alleviating children’s fears. Let them know that they are safe and loved, and remind them of all the good things in their lives. Encourage them to ask questions and express their feelings, and assure them that it’s okay to feel scared or confused. Limiting their exposure to distressing news, and monitoring their online activities can also help reduce anxiety and stress.
By being proactive and supportive, adults can help children navigate the overwhelming amount of information they are exposed to, and empower them to cope with distressing news in a healthy way.
Handling Loss
Discuss death gently with children and provide emotional support during times of loss. Encourage them to express their feelings and ask questions about challenging situations.
Seeking Additional Support
If you have ongoing concerns about your child’s mental well-being, consult with a GP for further assistance.
In addition to consulting with a GP, you may also consider reaching out to a mental health professional such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. These professionals are trained to provide specialized support and treatment for mental health concerns.
It’s important to prioritize your child’s mental health and well-being, so don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you feel it is necessary. Remember, you are not alone in this journey and there are resources available to support you and your child.
Last reviewed: 7 November 2022
Next review due: 7 November 2025
Shawna Mastro Campbell has no financial affiliations with the mentioned entities in the article.
Funding Disclosure
This article is funded by Bond University.
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Inside Out 2 delves into the psyche of 13-year-old Riley as she navigates new emotions.
Riley’s brain undergoes changes, introducing anxiety, envy, ennui, and embarrassment.
New emotions join the existing “core emotions” to intensify feelings’ control.
Adolescents experience brain changes related to social relationships and self-identity.
A scientifically backed guide for parents to manage adolescent emotions.
This article provides a valuable insight into the complex world of adolescent emotions, shedding light on the changes that take place in the teenage brain. Understanding how new emotions like anxiety, envy, ennui, and embarrassment interact with the core emotions can help parents and guardians navigate the challenges of supporting teenagers through this developmental stage. With the support of scientific research, this article serves as a helpful guide for parents looking to better understand and manage their adolescent’s emotions.
Understanding Specific Emotions
Anxiety is a common emotion that motivates progress towards goals. Parents can offer guidance on coping with anxiety and seeking assistance when necessary.
Envy stems from desiring what others possess, especially significant during adolescence. Teach children to acknowledge envy without detrimental comparisons.
Exploring Unique Emotions
Ennui, characterized by boredom and weariness, is prevalent in adolescents as they explore their identity. Understand the duration and intensity of ennui in children.
Lessons from Embarrassment and Sadness
Embarrassment and sadness provide crucial lessons in repairing relationships. Empathy and understanding aid children in navigating uncomfortable emotions.
Using Inside Out 2 for Discussions
Utilize Inside Out 2 to initiate conversations about typical adolescent emotions with children. Acknowledge and embrace the array of emotions, fostering brain development and emotional regulation through dialogue.
Effective Labeling Techniques
Engage both sides of your child’s brain by labeling their emotions effectively.
Strategies for Emotional Engagement
1. Use mirrors to practice emotion words and facial expressions.
2. Tune into your child’s new emotions and discuss the emotions of characters in books.
References:
Brownell, C. A., Svetlova, M., Anderson, R., Nichols, S. R., & Drummond, J. (2013). Socialization of early prosocial behavior: Parents’ talk about emotions is linked with sharing and helping in toddlers. Infancy, 18(1), 91-119.
Grazzani, I., Ornaghi, V., Agliati, A., & Brazzelli, E. (2016). How to promote toddlers’ mental-state discourse, emotional comprehension, and prosocial conduct: A discussion-centered program at nursery school. Infancy, 21(2), 199-227.