Wellbeing

Big Feelings & Emotional Regulation

Emotions are experienced on a spectrum of sensitivity, which is dictated by our own personal beliefs, opinions and lived experiences. These variations highlight the importance of fostering empathy, communication in diverse social contexts and responding to feelings in healthy ways. 

For some children, school can be an overwhelming social, emotional and academic minefield making some days harder to self-regulate than others. Emotional regulation in children refers to their ability to manage and respond to their emotional experiences in a healthy and flexible manner. Effective emotional regulation is crucial for social interactions, academic success, and overall positive mental health, as it helps children navigate challenges, resolve conflicts, and build resilience.

Children who are emotionally literate tend to cope better with stress, communicate more effectively and build stronger relationships as they move through different stages of their lives. 

There are many ways we can help our children recognise big and complex feelings, as well as develop the skills to regulate their emotions. Some examples of this are:

- Acknowledge and Validate the Feelings: Recognise and affirm the emotions without judgment. 

- Teach Emotional Vocabulary: Introduce words that describe various emotions, such as "frustrated," "anxious," or "excited." Being able to name the feelings makes them more manageable. 

- Model Calmness: Demonstrate how to remain composed during stressful situations. Having a calm demeanour can influence a child's ability to regulate their emotions. 

- Introduce Coping Strategies: Have discussions about positive coping strategies to manage intense emotions, like deep breathing, counting to ten, or doing a favourite activity. 

- Encourage Problem-Solving: Guide children through identifying problems and brainstorming solutions, helping them feel more in control of their emotions and situations.

- Establish Routines: Consistent daily routines provide a sense of security and predictability, which can reduce anxiety and help with emotional stability.

- Teach Positive Self-Talk: Help children develop affirmations or positive statements they can use to combat negative thoughts during emotional distress.

- Use Storytelling: Share stories that involve characters experiencing and managing emotions. Discuss these scenarios to help children understand various emotional responses.

- Encourage Mindfulness Practices: Introduce simple mindfulness exercises, such as focusing on the present moment, which can help children become more aware of their emotions without judgment.

By integrating these strategies into daily life, parents and educators can support children in developing healthier emotional regulation skills, fostering resilience and better emotional wellbeing.

As always, please feel free to reach out for more information about anything related to Friendology, student wellbeing or individual concerns you may have. I am contactable via compass, through the office or via email – louise.jarvis@education.vic.gov.au

Have a lovely weekend,

Louise Jarvis

Wellbeing Specialist Teacher