At a Glance
Your emotions influence how you respond to your child, and they notice how you handle those feelings. The way you manage your emotions can affect your child’s behavior. It might feel like there’s no time to focus on your own emotional coping—especially when you’re juggling meals, school schedules, and everything else. Practicing simple tools to manage your feelings can help you respond more calmly and effectively.
Understanding the link between your child’s emotions and their behavior helps you see what’s really going on. It allows you to support their feelings, not just react to their actions. It’s not always easy, and it takes practice, but the payoff is worth it! This section offers proven strategies to help your child manage big feelings in healthy ways, along with guidance on how to understand your own feelings and manage general stress.
Select each area to learn more about emotions and how to manage them.
Although we use the term “parents” throughout this course, it is meant for anyone who plays a significant role in children’s lives. This includes biological, foster, adoptive, and stepparents; grandparents and relatives; and other caregivers and guardians.