Little Honey Doula Services LLC

As a parent, I strive to make my toddler’s feelings feel validated. As a Behavior Analyst, I strive to make my client’s feelings feel validated.

Although both of these statements remain true, this doesn’t mean I let them get upset and stay upset. Talking through the emotions, acknowledging the emotions, and empathizing through the emotions is so important. Giving alternatives of how we can appropriately relinquish these feelings, is just as important. We can teach our kids that although they are angry, they should not hit others, destroy items, or anything else that may be dangerous. We can teach our kids that when they are sad, they can do things in a healthy manner to help themselves feel better.

We must remember that even as adults, it can be hard to process through strong and passionate emotions…let alone, take the time to react and process them appropriately. So, why should we expect our children to hold it together better than we are even capable of doing?

One way I have helped some of my little friends understand their feelings is through visuals! As Summer is approaching and you may be home more regularly with your own children or even helping to babysit a friend’s…feel free to use this chart (along with a pointer or a simple paper clip to move where they may be feeling in the moment) to start talking about feelings and what we can do with them!

Love,

Melina ❤️