Emotions are essentially psychological states that are a result of one’s thoughts, feelings, and responses. Be it adults or children, it is equally natural for every individual to flutter between different emotional states. While most adults are still able to understand as well as manage their emotions, it turns a little complicated for children. That’s because children’s growing brains are not able to recognize and differentiate between their emotions, and as such, being able to manage them well is something that’s not even wise to expect from them.
Having said that, it won’t be right to let them be like that and cope with their emotions on their own. What is needed instead is to teach them the art of controlling and managing their emotions. And to that end, starting earlier helps every time! At Delhi Public School Kota, one of the top 5 schools in Kota, we firmly believe that teaching children to manage emotions at a younger age helps them become clear-headed individuals who have healthy relationships and are capable of facing setbacks confidently. So today, we, at DPS Kota, would like to share with you a few ways which will help to ensure that your children’s emotions do not overpower their intelligence. Read on.
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Identifying emotions is the key
We have seen that children are able to manage their emotions better when they can identify and differentiate between the many emotions that humans encounter. There are both good and bad emotions. Thus, it is crucial that they are first of all taught to group these emotions aptly. Let the kids know that it is okay to feel emotionally weak. What is more important is to recognize the emotions properly, and while they can embrace the positive ones happily, they must also remain open to accept the negative ones as well so that they can bounce back even stronger. You can make use of shows and real-life experiences as powerful examples to impart knowledge related to identifying one’s emotions.
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Educate them on various relaxation techniques
One of the best things to be taught to children is acceptance. Children need to understand that emotional outbreaks can be overwhelming, and thus they need to adopt meaningful dealing techniques. And to that end, different forms of relaxation techniques, right from counting numbers 1 to 10 in one’s head, breathing mindfully, or simply flowing into a peaceful yoga routine, are activities that can come to their aid extensively. So, the minute you notice your child falling out emotionally, step forward and remind him/her to turn to these relaxation techniques. Once the child sees the results, he/she is sure to feel drawn to them.
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Talk about emotion shifters
Every child has a different set of interests and likings. While one child would find stillness in reading a book, the other would want to dance or put on music. So, encourage your kids to create a list of activities that they enjoy. Such things that they prefer to cover in their list are called “Emotion Shifters.” Ask your children to keep this list handy and pull it out anytime they feel out of place. You can also ask them to pick an activity from the list that makes them truly happy. This would help to change their emotional state in minutes.
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Encourage speaking up
Many a time, dark phases become darker because individuals fail to come out and share what they are going through. It is hence important to make children understand that it is okay to not be okay. Help them make peace with the fact that it is acceptable rather much needed to talk about their hardships. Underline the need to speak up about their emotional troubles. Let them pour their hear out – Ask them questions, motivate them to share, speak up, and avoid worrying about being judged. This will make them feel lighter and free.
Final Thoughts
We, at DPS Kota, recognized among the top 5 schools in Kota, understand that as a parent, you are often concerned about your child’s academic grades, physical well-being, and social skills. However, amidst all this, a vital aspect is missed out. And it has a lot to do with their emotional stability and the ability to withstand disturbing emotions. Hence, make it a point to motivate your kids to talk about their feelings, stress on emotional well-being, and most importantly, highlight to them the need to manage and deal with their emotions.