Toddlers will have meltdowns and tantrums, but sometimes having the words to describe how they feel can really help minimize or avoid those intense moments. Sometimes I get embarrassed and wonder what people think about me when they see one of my kids having a tantrum, but one thing I’ve learned is that:
- If they have kids, they get it.
- If they don’t they probably still get it…haha.
- They’re probably more likely to judge how *I* handle it.
So here is a preschool lesson you can do with your kiddos if any of you feel the same way I do or can relate to not knowing what to do when a child is having a meltdown.
Activities
You can use emoji eggs to teach about feelings which is a GREAT way to put all those Easter eggs lying around to good use! I made about 10-12 different faces and the kids got to pick eggs, tell us about what the egg was feeling, and then played with them for about 15 minutes mixing and matching the different eyes and mouths.
We also played some different games with these SUPER CUTE emotions flash cards by Picklebeans (which you can find at her Etsy shop with this link). We did some fun feelings worksheets, and got to choose different stickers to wear throughout the day based on how we were feeling.
Books used in lesson
- Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang – Have you guys read Grumpy Monkey?! My sister-in-law gave it to us for Dolly’s birthday, and we LOVE it! Sometimes it’s just ok to feel grumpy, ya know?
- In My Heart by Jo Witek – This one is a winner for sure, reading it as a mama made me tear up a little. It so perfectly describes and illustrates big feelings in a simple and relatable way for kids.
- The Way I Feel by Janan Cain – Another great read for getting a discussion going with your littles about feelings.
Takeaways
I remember reading once that being there for your child during a tantrum can help you both bond, because you’re able to work through big emotions together. They’ll feel loved and safe with you, and see you successfully process big emotions…you know, of course when you can actually manage to keep it together.
This perspective has helped me though. I try to think more about my own reactions and how I can show a good way to handle emotions. I have a long way to go, but finding good books and resources have helped all of us! I hope this simple lesson helps both you and your children process their intense emotions in positive ways.
Sincerely,
