“Name It to Tame It” – Helping Kids Understand Emotions

“Name It to Tame It” – Helping Kids Understand Emotions

Children can’t manage emotions they don’t understand.

✅ The Hack: Label Emotions Before Solving Behavior

When your child is upset, reflect what they’re feeling:

• "You’re mad your toy broke, huh?"

• "You seem sad because your friend left."

🧠 Why It Works:

Naming emotions activates the thinking brain and soothes the feeling brain. It helps children feel understood and in control.

✨ Example Dialogue:

• "You’re feeling frustrated because you can’t tie your shoes. That’s okay—we’ll try together."

👪 Parent Wins:

• Builds emotional vocabulary

• Reduces tantrums

• Deepens your child’s emotional intelligence